Landlord Privacy Rules and Entry Rights: New Brunswick FAQ

Tenants in New Brunswick value their privacy at home, but sometimes, landlords need to enter rental units for maintenance or inspections. Understanding when, how, and why a landlord can enter—and your right to privacy—can prevent disputes and promote a respectful living arrangement. This guide provides clear answers to common questions about privacy and landlord entry, tailored for tenants across New Brunswick.

Your Right to Privacy as a Tenant in New Brunswick

New Brunswick law protects tenants' right to reasonably enjoy their homes without interference. This includes private use of your space and freedom from unreasonable landlord visits. However, landlords have some rights to access your unit for repairs, inspections, or emergencies.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental Unit?

• Emergencies: A landlord may enter without notice if there's an emergency (e.g., fire, flooding, urgent repair).
• With Notice: For repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants/buyers, your landlord must give 24 hours written notice.
• Reasonable Hours: Entries (other than emergencies) must happen between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., and not on holidays unless you agree.

Landlord entry is regulated under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick^[1]. The rules are designed to balance your right to privacy with the landlord’s duty to maintain the property.

What Constitutes Proper Notice?

Written notice must clearly state:

• The date and time (or window of time) for entry
• The reasons for entering the unit

Verbal notice is not sufficient except in emergencies. Notices should be personally delivered or left in your mailbox.

Can a Landlord Enter Without Your Consent?

Except in emergencies, your landlord cannot enter your rental unit without giving proper written notice. Unauthorized entry breaches your right to reasonable privacy and may be grounds for complaint.

Steps to Take if Your Privacy Is Violated

• Document any unauthorized entry: note dates, times, and what occurred.
• Communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing.
• If unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick^[2].

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Notice of Entry by Landlord: Landlords are required to use written notification—there’s no specific government-issued form, but documents must meet legal standards under the Residential Tenancies Act. If you wish to dispute a landlord's action, the following application may help:
• Application for Assistance (Form 6):
  Use this form if you wish to make a formal complaint about privacy breaches or improper landlord entry.
  Download Application for Assistance (Form 6)^[3]

How to Use the Form 6: Complete all required sections, detailing your complaint and attaching relevant evidence. Submit the signed form to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal by mail, in person, or online using their contact information.

Key Rights and Responsibilities

• You must allow lawful entry for repairs, inspections, or emergencies.
• Your landlord must always give proper notice unless it’s an emergency.

For more on tenant and landlord obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. To learn about health and safety considerations during landlord entry or repairs, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

For a complete snapshot of your rights across the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Ensuring privacy starts with choosing respectful landlords and secure homes; to Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme, browse listings with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my unit without telling me in advance?
   No, not unless it’s an emergency situation. Written 24-hour notice is required for standard visits.
2. What if my landlord keeps coming over without proper notice?
   Document each occurrence, write to your landlord stating your concern, and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if it continues.
3. Are there specific times when a landlord can enter?
   Yes. Entries must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., on non-holiday days, unless you agree otherwise or it's an emergency.
4. Do I have to let the landlord in for repairs or inspections?
   Yes, as long as you receive proper written notice and the visit is during appropriate hours.
5. How do I make a formal complaint about privacy violations?
   Complete and submit an Application for Assistance (Form 6) to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with supporting evidence.

How To: Handle a Privacy Dispute About Landlord Entry

1. How do I respond if my landlord enters without notice?
   Politely remind your landlord of the notice requirement in writing, and keep a record of the incident.
2. How do I formally complain about repeated privacy violations?
   Complete Form 6 with dates and details, and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
3. How can I verify if a situation counts as an emergency?
   Emergencies include risks to health, safety, or property (like fire or gas leaks); anything else generally requires notice.
4. How do I contact the Tribunal?
   Visit the Residential Tenancies Tribunal’s website or call 1-888-762-8600 for assistance and to submit documents.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in New Brunswick must give 24 hours written notice for entry, except during emergencies.
• Tenants have the right to privacy; document unauthorized entries and use Form 6 for complaints.
• Know your responsibilities and rights to enjoy peaceful, safe renting experiences.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick – Forms, complaints, and guidance
• Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick – Full legal text
• Provincial tenant information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick
3. Application for Assistance (Form 6)

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