If you are a tenant or renter in New Brunswick and you discover a landlord-installed camera, you likely have questions about privacy, consent and what to do next. This guide explains basic tenant rights, what landlords can and cannot do with surveillance in rental properties, and step-by-step actions to protect your privacy. It covers how to document evidence, how to ask a landlord to remove a camera, when to use official forms, and how to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if needed. The language is plain and practical so you can take action confidently and understand your options under New Brunswick rules.
Where cameras are allowed and where they are not
Landlords may lawfully place cameras in common exterior areas for safety, but cameras inside rented units or aimed at private spaces (bedrooms, bathrooms, windows facing a private yard) generally raise serious privacy concerns. If a camera records inside your unit without your clear consent, that is likely an invasion of privacy and may breach tenancy rules or provincial legislation.[2]
What to do if you find a camera in your rental
- Document evidence: take clear photos or videos of the camera and its view, note dates and times, and save any messages or notices from the landlord.
- Contact the landlord in writing to ask for an explanation and to request removal of indoor cameras or cameras aimed at private spaces.
- Save written requests and replies and, if needed, prepare an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to resolve the dispute.[1]
- Consider filing an application with the Tribunal if the landlord does not cooperate or if privacy has been breached.
Tenant steps before filing a tribunal application
Most disputes are quicker when you try these steps first: clearly inform the landlord of the issue in writing, request camera removal or reorientation, and set a reasonable deadline for action. If your landlord claims the camera is for security, ask for details about what is being recorded, how long footage is kept, and who can access it.
Official forms and when to use them
Common official documents you may need:
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (form to request a hearing): use this when you want the Tribunal to decide on privacy breaches or to order removal of a camera. The application explains your complaint and asks for remedies.[3]
- Written complaint or timeline document: a dated record of events and evidence you present at a hearing to support your case.
- Request for information: send the landlord a written request for camera policies and footage-handling details before filing an application.
How landlords may legally use cameras
Landlords can use surveillance in exterior common areas for safety or to protect property, but should not use cameras in ways that unreasonably invade tenant privacy. Consent and clear notice are critical when surveillance may capture private spaces. If you are unsure about a specific device in your building, check the Tribunal guidance or seek advice.
When to get help and where to apply
If the landlord refuses to remove or adjust a problematic camera, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order. The Tribunal hears disputes about tenancy rights and can require corrective actions. Filing usually involves completing an application form, paying any applicable fee, and attending a hearing where both sides present evidence.[1]
FAQ
- Can my landlord put cameras inside my rental unit?
- Generally no: indoor cameras that record tenants in private spaces are likely a breach of privacy and may be prohibited under provincial rules and Tribunal decisions.
- Do I have to move out if I find a camera?
- No, you do not automatically have to move out; you should document the situation, request removal, and consider applying to the Tribunal to resolve the issue.
- What evidence helps my case at the Tribunal?
- Photos or video of the camera and its field of view, dated written communications with the landlord, witness statements, and any applicable lease clauses are useful evidence.
How-To
- Gather clear evidence: photos, video, timestamps and written notes describing where the camera is and what it records.
- Tell the landlord in writing about the camera, request removal or reorientation, and set a reasonable deadline.
- If unresolved, complete and submit an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, attaching all evidence and copies of written requests.
- Attend the Tribunal hearing, present your evidence calmly, and follow any Tribunal directions or orders.
- If the Tribunal issues an order, keep a copy and monitor compliance; return to the Tribunal if the landlord does not follow the order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Service New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and provincial legislation, Government of New Brunswick
- Tenant information and services, Government of New Brunswick
If you need to find a new rental while resolving a privacy issue, consider checking Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for listings nationwide.
