Landlord Rules for Tenant-Owned Portable Heaters in NB

Many renters in New Brunswick use portable heaters to supplement building heat, save energy, or stay comfortable in colder months. As a tenant, you have the right to a safe, habitable home, but portable electric or propane heaters can raise safety and insurance issues that involve both you and your landlord. This article explains common landlord rules, when you need permission, how safety and maintenance responsibilities are shared, and practical steps to resolve disputes. It also points to official provincial resources and shows when to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and review the Residential Tenancies Act for formal remedies.

What landlords can and cannot require

Landlords may set reasonable rules in the lease about appliance use to protect the building and other tenants. They cannot impose rules that conflict with provincial habitability standards. If a lease bans a specific safe portable electric heater model without a technical reason, ask the landlord for a written explanation. When the landlord claims a safety or insurance reason, request documentation and an alternative solution.

Safety, approvals, and common conditions

Safety is the main legal and practical concern. Landlords often require tenant-owned heaters to meet electrical and fire-safety standards, and to be used only in specific ways. Typical conditions include regular inspection, use of certified electric heaters (not unvented propane or kerosene indoors), and clearances from combustibles. If a landlord requires an inspection or approval, ask for a written reason and whether the inspection will be performed by a certified electrician or building official.

• Use only certified electric heaters with automatic shut-off and stable bases to reduce fire risk.
• Do not use unvented fuel-burning heaters (propane, kerosene) inside without explicit landlord permission and documentation of safe ventilation.
• If approval is needed, request the requirement in writing and ask which standards or codes the heater must meet.
• Keep records of purchase, user manual, and any inspections you arrange so you can prove compliance.

If a landlord denies a reasonable, safety-compliant heater, try to negotiate alternatives such as a landlord-provided space heater, a shared thermostat solution, or a written accommodation. Where negotiation fails, you can seek help from provincial tenancy services or file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal^[1]. Review the Residential Tenancies Act^[2] for your legal remedies and timelines.

Paying for repairs or damage

Tenants are responsible for damage caused by misuse of appliances, while landlords must maintain electrical systems and reasonable heating. If a portable heater causes damage, the landlord may seek compensation; similarly, a landlord who fails to address unsafe wiring that contributed to a hazard may share responsibility. If an insurance issue arises, ask the landlord how the insurer defines permitted appliances and whether exceptions exist.

If the landlord asks you to remove or stop using a heater

Ask for the request in writing and the specific safety or policy reason. If you disagree, provide the heater specifications, any inspection report, and a written proposal for safe use. If the dispute continues, you can file an application with the Tribunal to resolve whether the landlord's rule is reasonable under the Residential Tenancies Act^[2].

When to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

Use the Tribunal if negotiations fail and you need a formal decision about whether a landlord's rule or removal request is lawful. The Tribunal can order repairs, compensation, or allow the use of permitted appliances depending on the facts. Before filing, collect:

• Records: receipts, manuals, photos of the heater and where it was used.
• Written communications: emails, texts, or letters from the landlord about the heater.
• Inspection reports or electrician notes showing the heater meets safety standards.

FAQ

Can my landlord ban all portable heaters in my New Brunswick rental?

A landlord may set reasonable rules for safety, but a blanket ban that lacks a safety or insurance basis may be disputed. Ask for the reason in writing and seek Tribunal help if the ban seems unreasonable.

Do I need written permission to use an electric space heater?

If your lease or building rules require permission, get it in writing and provide specs showing the heater is certified and used safely.

Who pays if a heater damages the unit?

If damage is caused by misuse, the tenant may be liable; if caused by building defects or wiring issues, the landlord may be responsible. Collect evidence and consider a Tribunal application for disputed responsibility.

How-To

1. Request written permission or clarification from your landlord describing the specific safety concern or rule.
2. Gather evidence: heater specs, purchase receipt, photos, and any inspection reports showing compliance.
3. Attempt negotiation with your landlord and offer mitigation (e.g., certified heater, safe placement, circuit checks).
4. If negotiation fails, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your documentation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
• Government of New Brunswick - Tenant and landlord information
• Residential tenancy forms and guides - Service New Brunswick

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act and provincial legislation - Government of New Brunswick