Landlord Privacy and Entry Laws for Tenants in New Brunswick

Tenants in New Brunswick have important legal protections when it comes to privacy in their rental unit, as well as how and when a landlord may enter. Knowing your rights can help you prevent unlawful entry and feel secure in your home. This article explains landlord entry laws, tenant privacy rights, the official process for complaints, and answers common questions—all according to current New Brunswick law.

Tenant Privacy Rights in New Brunswick Rentals

Your rental unit is your private space. Even though the landlord owns the property, they have to follow specific rules if they want to enter your rented home. These rights are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick^[1].

• Landlords cannot enter your unit whenever they wish. Tenants' privacy is protected by law.
• In most cases, landlords must give tenants proper written notice before entering.
• Some exceptions exist, such as emergencies or if the tenant agrees to immediate entry.

Understanding these boundaries allows for a respectful landlord-tenant relationship and helps set clear expectations.

When Can a Landlord Legally Enter Your Unit?

While tenants have a right to privacy, landlords also have rights and responsibilities that sometimes require access to the unit. Common legal reasons for entry include:

• Repairs or inspections required by law
• Showing the unit to prospective tenants, buyers, or contractors
• Emergencies, such as fire or flooding (no notice required)

Landlords must generally provide at least 24 hours of written notice before entering for non-emergency reasons, and entry must occur between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless the tenant consents otherwise.

Proper Notice Requirements

New Brunswick law requires landlords to:

• Deliver written notice specifying the date, time, and purpose of entry
• Give notice at least 24 hours before the planned entry
• Respect reasonable times for entry (typically 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)

Verbal notice is not enough. Notices should be clear, and a copy should be kept for your records.

Emergency Entry and Special Situations

There are important exceptions to the standard notice rule. In case of emergencies—like a burst pipe or fire—landlords may enter your home without notice to address the urgent issue. If you give permission, the landlord can enter at any mutually agreed time, even without written notice.

Routine and Urgent Repairs

Routine repairs sometimes require landlord entry. Always request written notice first, unless it's an emergency. For more on your rights around maintenance and urgent repairs, read Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities or see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

What Landlords Cannot Do

Landlords in New Brunswick may not:

• Enter your home without proper notice (unless there's an emergency)
• Enter at unreasonable hours or when you are not present, unless agreed
• Use entry as a way to intimidate, harass, or pressure tenants

Filing a Privacy or Entry Complaint in New Brunswick

If your privacy rights are violated, or your landlord enters unlawfully, you have several options. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick is responsible for resolving tenant-landlord disputes^[2].

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Application to the Director (Form 6):
  Use this to make a formal complaint about illegal entry or privacy violations. Fill it out with details and submit to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
  Download Form 6: Application to the Director.

Example: If your landlord enters without notice multiple times, fill out and submit Form 6 to begin an official investigation. Be sure to document each instance and attach copies with your form.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Respect goes both ways. Landlord entry laws are just one part of your broader rights and obligations. To learn more, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

You can also Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for an overview of all provincial rules.

If you're searching for a new place to rent while considering your privacy, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for secure rental options nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my landlord need my permission to enter my rental in New Brunswick?
   In most cases, yes—landlords need to provide written notice at least 24 hours in advance. Exceptions apply for emergencies or if you explicitly agree.
2. What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?
   Situations like fires, flooding, or gas leaks are emergencies where the landlord can legally enter without notice to protect people or property.
3. What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
   Document each incident, communicate your concerns to the landlord, and file Form 6 with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if necessary.
4. Can my landlord enter for routine repairs?
   Yes, but they must give you at least 24 hours' written notice (unless you agree otherwise or it’s an urgent issue).
5. Is there a law that protects my privacy as a tenant?
   Yes, the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick sets out your privacy and entry rights as a tenant.

How To: Respond to Unlawful Landlord Entry

1. How do I document unlawful entry by my landlord?
   Keep a written record of each incident, including dates, times, and details. Save any related texts, emails, or notices.
2. How can I file a formal complaint?
   Complete Form 6: Application to the Director and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Attach any evidence you have.
3. What should I include in my complaint?
   List all instances of unauthorized entry, provide dates/times, and add evidence (e.g., photos, saved messages).
4. How long does it take to get a response?
   Processing times vary, but you should hear from the Tribunal within a few weeks after you submit your form.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in New Brunswick must respect tenants' privacy and provide written notice for most entries.
• Emergencies and tenant agreement are exceptions to standard notice rules.
• Document issues and use the official process to protect your rights if rules are broken.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick – Submit complaints, download forms, and find official information
• Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick – Read the full legislation
• For personalized assistance, consider contacting a local tenant advocacy office or housing support center

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy