LTB Compensation and Costs: What NB Parties Can Seek

Tenants and renters in New Brunswick often wonder what compensation or cost recovery they can seek through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. This guide explains common remedies a tenant or landlord can request, how the tribunal assesses damages and costs, what evidence strengthens a claim, and the official forms and timelines youll encounter. It uses plain language and focuses on practical steps tenants can takedocumenting losses, filing the right application, and preparing for a hearing. Whether you are seeking refunds of deposits, repair costs, rent arrears, or compensation for breach of the rental agreement, this resource helps New Brunswick renters understand options and next steps they can take without legal experience.

How the New Brunswick tribunal decides compensation

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the body that hears disputes about compensation, deposits, rent arrears and other tenancy costs in New Brunswick^[1]. The Tribunal applies the Residential Tenancies Act and looks for clear evidence of loss, causal connection to the tenancy issue, and reasonable amounts for repair or replacement^[2]. Decisions often balance fairness to both tenant and landlord and focus on direct losses rather than speculative or punitive damages.

Common types of compensation and recoverable costs

• Rent arrears and unpaid rent owed by a tenant.
• Refund of security deposit or portion withheld improperly.
• Repair and maintenance costs that a landlord failed to address and the tenant paid for.
• Compensation for replacement of damaged personal property caused by landlord negligence.
• Application fees and costs associated with bringing a claim in the Tribunal (when recoverable).

What counts as good evidence

Strong claims depend on clear, dated evidence that links the loss to the tenancy issue. Useful records include photos, repair receipts, dated messages to the landlord, rent ledgers, and third-party invoices.

• Photos or videos showing damage with dates and context.
• Receipts and invoices for repairs or replacement items.
• Copies of written notices, emails, or text messages about the problem.

How to make a claim with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

To pursue compensation, complete the official application form and submit it to the Tribunal following their instructions. Include a clear statement of the remedy you seek (amounts, dates, and supporting evidence) and pay any required filing fee or ask the Tribunal about fee waivers. The official application and supporting forms are available from the provincial site and explain what to include in each section^[3].

If you need a place to live while resolving a dispute, you can also Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to compare options and understand current market rents.

For issues like recovering a security deposit after moving out, see the guide on How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for practical steps on documentation and timelines.

Preparing for the hearing

Before the hearing, organize a concise timeline, a copy of every document you will rely on, and a list of witnesses or contacts. Practice a short summary of your key points so the hearing stays focused on the losses and evidence.

• File documents within the deadlines set by the Tribunal.
• Bring originals and copies of receipts, photos, and communications.
• Be ready to explain how amounts were calculated and why they are reasonable.

Costs, legal fees, and enforcement

The Tribunal can sometimes order a losing party to pay costs or part of filing fees, but awards for legal fees are limited and depend on the circumstances and legislation. If you get an order and the other party does not comply, the order can be enforced through civil collection processes; the Tribunal or provincial resources can explain enforcement options.

FAQ

Who handles tenancy compensation claims in New Brunswick?

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles compensation claims related to residential tenancy disputes in New Brunswick.

Can I claim for repair costs I paid for myself?

Yes, if you gave the landlord notice and the repair was reasonable; bring receipts and proof you tried to get the landlord to act.

Do I need a lawyer to apply to the Tribunal?

No. Many tenants represent themselves; bring clear evidence and consider free legal clinics or tenant services for help.

How-To

1. Complete the official application form with contact details, a short statement of facts, and the specific compensation you are requesting.
2. Gather and number supporting evidence: photos, receipts, messages, and witness names.
3. Pay the filing fee or apply for any fee exemption the Tribunal offers.
4. Serve or send the application to the landlord as the Tribunal requires and keep proof of delivery.
5. Attend the hearing, present your evidence, and answer questions briefly and respectfully.
6. If you receive an order, follow the Tribunals instructions to enforce it if necessary.

Key Takeaways

• Document all problems, costs, and communications to support any claim.
• Use the official application form and follow Tribunal filing rules carefully.
• The Tribunal focuses on direct, reasonable losses tied to the tenancy.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
• Residential Tenancies Act and related legislation - Government of New Brunswick
• Service New Brunswick - Contact and tenant services

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act and related legislation - Government of New Brunswick
3. [3] Service New Brunswick - Official forms and services