Landlord Privacy & Entry Rules for Tenants in New Brunswick

As a tenant in New Brunswick, you have important rights when it comes to privacy and when your landlord can enter your rental home. Knowing these rules helps you feel secure and avoid misunderstandings. This guide explains your privacy rights, when a landlord is legally allowed to enter, and what steps to take if those rights are violated—all tailored for New Brunswick renters.

Landlord Entry: What Are Your Rights in New Brunswick?

Landlords in New Brunswick must follow strict rules about entering your rental unit, as set out in the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Generally, your privacy is protected, and entry is only allowed in certain situations and with proper notice.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental?

• With 24 Hours' Written Notice: For repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers.
• In Emergencies: Immediate access is allowed to deal with situations like fire, flooding, or safety issues.
• If You Agree: If you provide verbal or written permission, a landlord can enter sooner.
• To Deliver Certain Notices: Landlords may enter to post legal notices related to tenancy.

Notice must include the date, time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), and reason for entry. Landlords cannot enter for non-urgent reasons without proper notice, and repeated unannounced visits may breach your privacy rights.

Understanding Your Privacy: What Landlords Cannot Do

• Landlords cannot enter your unit without following legal notice rules (except emergencies).
• They may not harass, intimidate, or otherwise disturb your reasonable enjoyment of the home.
• Use of cameras or monitoring devices in private living areas is strictly prohibited.

These protections support your sense of safety and autonomy while renting.

Required Forms: Entry and Complaint Processes

If you believe your landlord is not following proper entry procedures, there are official forms and steps to help you resolve the issue.

• Request for Assistance (Form RTB-5): Use this form to ask the Office of the Rentalsman to resolve disputes about privacy or landlord entry. For example, if a landlord repeatedly enters without notice, you can file this form to request an investigation. Download it from the official government site here.^[2]
• Notice of Entry: While landlords use their own version, you have the right to ask for written proof of upcoming entry. Keep records of all communications.

All disputes are handled by the Office of the Rentalsman (New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal), the official authority overseeing tenancy matters.

Typical Issues and Solutions for Tenants

Common privacy concerns include unannounced landlord visits, intrusive inspections, or unauthorized showings while you still live in the unit. If this happens, consider these steps:

• Document occurrences (dates, times, nature of the entry).
• Communicate your concerns in writing—remain polite and specific.
• If unresolved, submit Form RTB-5 to the Office of the Rentalsman.

For additional tips on addressing persistent landlord issues, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

How Privacy Rules Affect Everyday Tenant Life

Knowing your privacy rights can help prevent stress and awkward situations. For example, your landlord can’t enter just to check on your living habits, and scheduled repairs must come with 24 hours’ notice. If you’re still moving in or newly received your keys, be aware of your rights from day one—see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for more details.

Understanding your obligations as a tenant—such as respecting the property and permitting reasonable access for repairs—goes hand-in-hand with your rights. For a full overview, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For information about rights and entry in provinces outside New Brunswick, check the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick fact page.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for updated New Brunswick listings that prioritize tenant privacy.

FAQ: Tenant Privacy and Landlord Entry in New Brunswick

1. How much notice does my landlord have to give before entering?
   In most cases, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice, stating a valid reason and a time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
2. Can a landlord enter my apartment without notice for repairs?
   Only in an emergency, such as a water leak or fire. For routine repairs, 24 hours’ advance written notice is required.
3. What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without permission?
   Document each entry, contact your landlord in writing, and if the problem continues, file a Request for Assistance (Form RTB-5) with the Rentalsman.
4. Is it legal for my landlord to install cameras inside my rental?
   No, landlords may not use cameras or recording devices inside private living spaces. This is a breach of your privacy rights under the law.
5. Who handles complaints about privacy violations in New Brunswick?
   The Office of the Rentalsman (Residential Tenancies Tribunal) manages all tenancy complaints, including privacy and entry disputes.

How To: Steps to Address Unlawful Landlord Entry in New Brunswick

1. How do I document improper landlord entry?
   Write down the date, time, who was present, and what happened. Save any relevant texts or emails.
2. How can I formally request my landlord to respect my privacy?
   Send a polite written letter or email referencing the Residential Tenancies Act and specify your concerns.
3. How do I file a privacy or entry complaint in New Brunswick?
   Complete Form RTB-5 (‘Request for Assistance’) and submit it to the Office of the Rentalsman by mail, email, or in person.
4. How can I prepare for a hearing with the tribunal?
   Gather your documentation (letters, notices, Form RTB-5, photos if relevant), and be ready to clearly explain your experience.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice for entry except in emergencies.
• Use Request for Assistance (Form RTB-5) to report privacy violations to the Office of the Rentalsman.
• Always keep written records of landlord communications regarding entry.

Remember: Communicate respectfully, follow official complaint procedures if issues persist, and make use of available resources to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Office of the Rentalsman (Residential Tenancies Tribunal): Guidance, forms, dispute resolution.
• Ombud New Brunswick: Complaints about government services.
• Local tenant support services: Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB): Housing Rights Information

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act
2. Request for Assistance (Form RTB-5) - Government of New Brunswick

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