If you rent in New Brunswick and worry about lead in paint, dust or water, this guide explains what tenants should watch for and how to protect household health. It uses plain language to describe common sources of lead, health risks for children and pregnant people, landlord duties for repairs and disclosure, and practical steps tenants can take to request testing or fixes. You will find clear examples of when to contact your landlord, when to involve public health or the residential tenancy authority, and how to document problems so your case is stronger if you need to file an application. Keep a copy of every communication and test result to protect your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick.
How lead exposure appears in rental homes
Lead is most often a hazard in older housing: flaking lead-based paint, contaminated dust after renovations, or older plumbing that corrodes and releases lead into drinking water. Symptoms in adults can be subtle, while children can suffer learning and developmental issues even at low levels. If a unit was built before the 1990s, consider the possibility of lead in paint or plumbing and take action if you see peeling paint or notice discoloured tap water.
Landlord obligations in New Brunswick
Landlords must provide and maintain a rental unit that meets basic health and safety standards. That can include arranging repairs to remove peeling paint, addressing plumbing that may leach lead, and stopping unsafe renovation practices that create dust. If you suspect lead, notify the landlord in writing and ask for specific remediation steps and timelines. For basic rules and tenant-landlord responsibilities, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Immediate actions tenants should take
- Report visible peeling paint, dust or discoloured water to the landlord in writing and keep a dated copy.
- Taken photos of problem areas and collect any relevant receipts or reports to document the condition.
- Contact your local public health unit if you suspect exposure for health advice and testing recommendations.[1]
Testing, repairs and official forms
Testing can include water testing by accredited labs or paint/dust testing arranged through public health or private environmental services. If tests confirm hazardous lead levels, landlords should arrange safe remediation by qualified contractors. Tenants may ask for a timeline in writing and to be notified before any repair or renovation that could disturb paint.
If a landlord does not act, tenants can file an application with the provincial residential tenancy authority to request orders for repairs or abatements. You can also seek public health orders where immediate health risks exist. The provincial tribunal that hears tenancy disputes handles applications about repairs and habitability; consult the official tribunal information before filing an application.[2]
When to consider filing a formal application
Consider filing when the landlord fails to respond within a reasonable time, when repairs are incomplete, or when remediation is done unsafely. Example: you report peeling paint and discoloured water, provide photos and two weeks for a response, and the landlord does not arrange testing or repairs—this is a reasonable situation to file an application asking the tribunal to order testing and remediation.
What to include in written requests and evidence
- Describe the problem, dates, and any health symptoms observed.
- Attach dated photos, test results, medical notes, and copies of previous messages to the landlord.
- State a reasonable deadline for repairs or testing (for example, within 14 days for urgent issues).
FAQ
- How do I know if my rental has lead hazards?
- Visible peeling paint, recent renovation dust, and rusty or discoloured water are signs; have water or paint/dust tested to be sure and speak to public health for guidance.[1]
- What must my landlord do if tests show lead?
- Landlords should arrange safe remediation and repairs by qualified workers, follow public health guidance, and provide documentation of the work; if they don’t, you can file an application with the residential tenancy authority.[2]
- Can I withhold rent if my unit has lead problems?
- Withholding rent is risky and typically not recommended without legal advice; instead, document issues, give written notice, and file with the tribunal if the landlord fails to act.
How-To
- Recognize signs of lead (peeling paint, dusty renovations, discoloured water) and document them with photos and dates.
- Send a written request to your landlord asking for testing and repairs, and set a reasonable deadline for a response.
- Contact your local public health unit for health advice and testing referrals if anyone shows symptoms or if children live in the unit.[1]
- If the landlord doesn’t act, collect your evidence and file an application with the residential tenancy tribunal requesting an order for remediation.[2]
- Attend any hearings, bring copies of all documents, and follow tribunal directions for remediation or compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Report suspected lead hazards in writing and keep all evidence and communications.
- Use public health and the residential tenancy tribunal when landlords do not arrange safe testing or repairs.
Help and Support / Resources
- Health Canada: Lead exposure guidance and resources
- Government of New Brunswick - official services and contacts
- New Brunswick Residential Tenancies information and tribunal contacts
