Renters in New Brunswick often rely on landlords to keep housing accessible and safe. This guide explains landlord maintenance duties for accessibility, how tenants can request repairs or reasonable accommodation, what timelines apply, and when to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. It covers common accessibility features — ramps, handrails, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms — and practical steps tenants should take when accessibility issues affect daily living. The language is plain and focused on tenant rights, documentation, and useful forms. If you need to report a problem, respond to notices, or escalate unresolved issues, this article shows what to expect and how to prepare a clear case that a landlord can follow or a tribunal can consider.
Landlord maintenance and accessibility in New Brunswick
Landlords are generally required to maintain the rental property in a state that meets basic health, safety and accessibility needs. Tenants can ask landlords to repair or modify features that affect accessibility; where a request is reasonable, the landlord must take steps to accommodate unless a clear legal reason prevents it. If a landlord refuses or delays, tenants may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for orders or remedies[1]. The governing provincial legislation sets the standards and timelines for repairs and applications[2].
Common accessibility features landlords must maintain
- Ramps, thresholds and exterior entrances must be repaired to allow safe entry for mobility devices.
- Handrails, grab bars and stair repairs that affect safe use of common areas must be kept in working order.
- Accessible bathroom fixtures and plumbing that fail and limit accessibility must be fixed promptly.
- Door hardware and locks affecting independent access should be maintained or replaced as needed.
How long should repairs take?
Timelines depend on the problem severity. Emergency matters that endanger health or basic access should be addressed immediately; less urgent fixes should be completed within a reasonable period after notice. If the landlord does not act, tenants can file an application with the tribunal and ask for expedited relief where accessibility is significantly impaired[1]. For examples of routine timelines and tenant-landlord responsibilities see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities when discussing typical repair categories and expectations.
Requesting modifications or reasonable accommodation
When an accessibility modification is needed, start with a clear written request to your landlord describing the problem and suggested fix. Include dates, photos, and whether the modification is temporary or permanent. If the request involves structural change, suggest materials, qualified contractors, or low-cost alternatives. If the landlord cites concerns about cost or safety, ask them to explain in writing so you can consider alternatives or mediation. You can refer to general tenant and landlord obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to understand common responsibilities.
FAQ
- Who enforces accessibility maintenance rules in New Brunswick?
- The Residential Tenancies Tribunal enforces landlord obligations and hears applications about repairs and accessibility issues[1].
- What should I include in a written repair or accommodation request?
- Include the specific problem, how it affects your access, dates, photos, any steps you took, and a clear request for repair or modification. Keep a copy for your records.
- Which law applies to accessibility and repairs in rental housing?
- The province's residential tenancies legislation sets repair and maintenance duties and tribunal procedures for New Brunswick[2].
How-To
- Document the accessibility issue with photos, dates and notes.
- Send a written request to your landlord describing the problem and the repair or modification you need.
- Follow up by phone and keep a log of calls and responses.
- If the landlord does not act, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and include your documentation[1].
- Attend any hearing, bring originals and copies of your evidence, and be ready to explain how accessibility is affected.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain basic accessibility features and address repairs that affect safe access.
- Always make written requests and keep dated evidence of problems and communications.
- If repairs are delayed, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal can order fixes or remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- Service New Brunswick - Tenant information and forms
- [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- [3] Service New Brunswick - Tenant information and forms
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