Moving out of a rental in New Brunswick involves more than packing boxes: renters and tenants should plan for locks, key returns, and properly handling mail to protect their deposit and avoid disputes. This guide explains practical steps you can take as a tenant in New Brunswick, including when to notify your landlord, how to document key handover, what to do with mail and packages, and where to find official forms and the tribunal if you need to file an application. Read these clear, tenant-focused tips so you leave on good terms, meet legal deadlines, and keep records that support your rights during the final inspection and deposit return process.
Before you start packing
Check your lease for any clauses about locks, replacement keys, and forwarding mail. Many agreements require tenants to return all keys on or before the last day of the tenancy and to leave locks as they were at move‑in. If you changed a lock during your tenancy, you may need to give the landlord a copy or restore the original lock unless you agreed otherwise in writing.
Locks & keys: what tenants should do
Follow these steps so there is no confusion about possession of the unit:
- Contact your landlord in writing to arrange a mutually convenient time to return keys and to confirm whether the landlord will change locks or require copies to be left.
- If you installed a new lock with the landlord's permission, provide a key or restore the original lock if the agreement requires it.
- Take photos or a short dated video at key handover showing number of keys and condition of locks so you have evidence if a dispute arises.
Damaged or missing keys
If keys are lost or locks are damaged, tell your landlord promptly and get a written estimate for replacement or repair. Keep receipts if you pay for replacement; they can be evidence against improper deductions from your deposit.
Mail & forwarding
Arrange mail forwarding and notify important contacts of your new address at least a few days before you move. For packages or mail left at the rental after you leave, establish in writing who will be responsible and for how long.
- File mail forwarding with Canada Post and notify your bank, employer, utilities and any government programs of your new address.
- Ask the landlord how they will handle mail delivered after you vacate and document any agreement.
Final inspection, deposits and documentation
Book the final inspection with your landlord and attend where possible. Use a checklist and take time-stamped photos or video of each room. Keep copies of move-in and move-out photos side-by-side to show ordinary wear versus damage.
- Bring a copy of the original inspection report to the final inspection and note any agreed repairs or deductions.
- Ask for an itemized list of any proposed deductions from your deposit and request receipts for repair costs.
- If you disagree with deductions, you can file an application with the provincial tribunal within the time limits set by the legislation[1].
When to use official forms and where to apply
New Brunswick tenants who cannot resolve a deposit dispute or issues about keys, locks, or mail can file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Common forms include the application to the tribunal to request return of a security deposit or to challenge deductions, and official notices used to end a tenancy. Complete each form carefully, attach your evidence (photos, receipts, inspection reports), and keep copies.
FAQ
- Do I have to give my landlord copies of any new keys I made?
- Usually yes if the lease or provincial rules require landlords to have access; otherwise provide what your written agreement requires and document delivery.
- Can a landlord deduct the cost of changing locks from my deposit?
- Only for reasonable costs related to damage beyond normal wear; landlords must provide receipts and an itemized statement of deductions.
- What if I receive important mail after I move out?
- Notify the sender and arrange forwarding; if the landlord holds mail, ask for written agreement on how long they will keep it and any fees.
How-To
- Book a final inspection date with your landlord and confirm it in writing at least a few days beforehand.
- Perform a full clean and take time-stamped photos or video of every room to document condition on the day you move out.
- Return keys in person when possible and ask the landlord to sign or email a receipt stating the keys were returned.
- File mail forwarding with Canada Post and notify key contacts of your new address to prevent missed notices.
- If deductions are proposed, request an itemized bill and receipts and respond in writing within the time allowed by the Residential Tenancies rules.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, submit an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with your evidence and the completed application form[2].
Key Takeaways
- Document the condition of the unit at move-in and move-out to support any deposit claims.
- Return keys on the agreed date and get written confirmation to avoid disputes.
- Use official forms and the tribunal when informal negotiation does not resolve a dispute.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- [2] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- [3] Canada Post - Change of Address and Forwarding
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