Landlord Surveillance Cameras: Tenant Rights in New Brunswick

As more landlords consider adding cameras, smart locks, and other surveillance technology, privacy questions have become front-and-centre for tenants in New Brunswick. Understanding your rights under provincial law can help you protect your living space and respond confidently if surveillance devices appear in or around your rental home.

Tenant Privacy Rights in New Brunswick Rentals

Residential tenancies in New Brunswick are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This law sets out your right to privacy and establishes boundaries on when and how landlords can enter, monitor, or install tech on the property.

• Inside your unit: Landlords cannot install video cameras or recording equipment inside your living space without your knowledge and explicit consent.
• Common areas: Surveillance cameras may be permitted in shared spaces (like building entrances or laundry rooms) for safety, but these must not invade personal privacy (e.g., point into your apartment or private balcony).
• Audio recording is almost never allowed unless everyone recorded has consented. Hidden microphones or recording devices are a violation of privacy.

If you feel your privacy has been breached, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick is responsible for addressing complaints and resolving disputes. Find their official page at Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick.

What To Do If Your Landlord Installs Cameras or Surveillance Tech

This can be unsettling, but your landlord does have obligations. Here’s what to consider and actionable steps you can take:

• Ask for written notice explaining what type of device is installed, where it records, and why.
• Review your lease agreement for any mention of surveillance (most will not permit cameras in private spaces).
• If you believe your privacy rights under the Residential Tenancies Act are being violated, you can file a complaint with the Tribunal.

Before proceeding, it’s smart to understand both your rights and your obligations. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more details about landlord access and tenant responsibilities in New Brunswick.

Official Forms: Submitting a Privacy Complaint

• Form 6 – Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Use this form to submit a dispute, including complaints about privacy or illegal surveillance equipment in your rental.
• Access Form 6 and instructions on the official government website.
• When to use: If discussion with your landlord doesn’t resolve the issue, submit Form 6 describing where cameras were installed or how recording equipment is affecting your quiet enjoyment of the home.

Tip: Always document your concerns in writing and keep photos if you believe cameras are directed into private areas. This can help your case if you need to apply to the Tribunal.

Common Surveillance Scenarios in Rentals

Surveillance technology can create a genuine concern for tenants, especially when it intrudes into your personal space. Here are typical scenarios and how New Brunswick law applies:

• Security cameras in lobbies, entrances, or parking lots: Permissible if focused on common areas, not on individual balconies or units.
• Hidden cameras or audio equipment in living areas: Not allowed – a direct violation of your privacy rights.
• Smart locks or video doorbells: May be allowed for safety, but landlords should not monitor your comings and goings excessively; consent and notification are expected.

If you’re unsure what’s allowed, check your lease and request written details from your landlord before giving consent to surveillance equipment.

Your Rights and Next Steps

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have a right to "reasonable enjoyment" – including privacy from surveillance. If you feel these rights are being ignored, the key steps are:

• Communicate with your landlord to address concerns.
• Keep documentation – photos, notices, emails.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and consider submitting Form 6 if issues persist.

Understanding your rights helps you act confidently. If you need detailed guidance about what happens after signing a lease—including privacy matters—see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For a provincial overview of tenant and landlord obligations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Want flexibility or alternatives? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find privacy-conscious rentals across Canada.

FAQ: Surveillance Devices and Tenant Privacy in New Brunswick

1. Can my landlord put cameras inside my apartment?
   No, installing cameras or recording devices inside your rental unit without your consent is not allowed under New Brunswick law.
2. Are landlords allowed to use video surveillance in hallways or entrances?
   Yes, but only in common areas and not directed at your private spaces. The purpose must be for security, not to monitor tenants.
3. How do I make a complaint if I believe my privacy is being violated?
   Contact your landlord first in writing; if unresolved, submit Form 6 – Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, describing your concerns.
   
4. Do I have to be notified if surveillance is installed?
   Yes, your landlord should provide notice, explain where the device is placed, and seek your consent in case of private areas.
5. Where can I learn more about my privacy rights as a tenant?
   Visit the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website or read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for a comprehensive overview.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords must respect your right to privacy and cannot install surveillance equipment inside your private living space without consent.
• You can contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and submit Form 6 if you believe your rights are breached.
• Document your concerns, review your lease, and seek clarification before agreeing to any surveillance in your building.

Protecting your privacy in a rental is your right—and knowing the rules makes it easier to take action, if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick: Contact, FAQs, forms, and info
• Tenants' Rights Resources: See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick
• Official Legislation: Read the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
• For new rentals with privacy features: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal: https://www.snb.ca/e/1000/1000-2/e/RTspell.asp
2. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick): https://laws.gnb.ca/en/showfulldoc/cs/2012-c.119
3. Form 6 for complaints: https://www2.snb.ca/content/dam/snb/Departments/snb/Forms/Tenancies/Form6.pdf

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