Managing LTB Hearing Delays: Tenant Options in New Brunswick

Many tenants in New Brunswick experiencing issues such as maintenance problems, eviction, or disputes with landlords rely on formal hearings for resolution. However, delays at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT)—New Brunswick’s dispute resolution body—can leave tenants waiting for justice and unsure of their next steps.

About the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick

New Brunswick handles landlord–tenant disputes through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT). This government body hears concerns related to rent increases, evictions, maintenance, and other rental issues.

Understanding LTB Delays and Reasons They Occur

While the Residential Tenancies Tribunal aims to resolve issues quickly, tenants sometimes experience delays due to:

• High volume of cases following pandemic-related backlogs
• Complex disputes requiring more evidence or information
• Scheduling constraints for hearings

It is important for tenants to be prepared for potential wait times, especially when urgent housing or safety issues are involved.

Your Rights During Tribunal Delays

While waiting for an RTT decision, tenants should continue to follow the terms of their rental agreement, pay rent as required, and document all communications and issues. It's crucial to understand your legal obligations and protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)^[1].

Common Issues Facing Tenants Awaiting Hearings

• Repairs and maintenance remain unresolved
• Landlords attempt to evict or increase rent before a decision
• Uncertainty about next steps or timelines

For a broader look at these challenges and practical advice, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Official Forms for New Brunswick Tenants

Tenants may need to submit forms to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for various situations, such as requesting a hearing or responding to a landlord’s claim.

• Application for Assistance (Form 6): Use this form to request a hearing on issues like rent increases, eviction, maintenance, or enforcing tenant rights.
  Download Form 6
  Example: If your landlord has not made necessary repairs and you need a hearing to resolve the issue, fill out and submit Form 6 as soon as possible.
• Notice to Vacate: Tenants can use the official Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 1) when giving notice to leave the rental or responding to an eviction application.
  Example: If you must end your lease and there is a dispute over the timeline, submit Form 1 to officially notify the landlord and the Tribunal.

Always file forms directly with the RTT, following the instructions on each form and keeping copies for your records.

Practical Steps to Take if Your Hearing is Delayed

If you are waiting for a response or a decision, here are steps to help you stay proactive and protect your rights.

• Follow up with the Tribunal: Contact the RTT to confirm receipt of your application and ask for estimated timelines.
• Document Everything: Keep records of all issues, communications with your landlord, and attempts to resolve disputes.
• Continue Meeting Your Obligations: Pay rent and comply with your lease to avoid giving rise to other legal concerns. For more on your responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
• Seek Interim Help: If the issue is urgent (e.g., health or safety risk), use evidence like inspection reports, consider calling local health authorities, and signal the urgency to the Tribunal.

Alternative Actions While Waiting for a Decision

For urgent matters that affect your health or safety, such as extreme maintenance issues or pest infestations, you may be able to involve municipal health inspectors or local authorities while waiting for the Tribunal’s response.

Tenants looking for a new rental during disputes or between apartments can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for more options.

Know Your Rights in New Brunswick

Tenants can learn more about their province-specific rights and dispute resolution procedures at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

FAQs About Tribunal Delays in New Brunswick

1. What should I do if my hearing is taking too long?
   Stay in contact with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, continue to meet your rental obligations, and document all issues and communications for evidence.
2. Can my landlord evict me before a decision is made?
   No, landlords must follow the legal process, and any eviction notice is not enforceable until the Tribunal has made a decision.
3. Are there faster options if my issue is urgent?
   For urgent safety matters, consider contacting municipal health inspectors or other relevant authorities while notifying the Tribunal about the urgency.
4. How can I track the status of my application?
   You can call or email the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to request updates and check receipt of your application or evidence.

Key Takeaways for New Brunswick Tenants Dealing with Delays

• The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is responsible for handling rental disputes in New Brunswick.
• Delays are common—remain proactive and keep strong records.
• Know and follow your obligations to avoid additional complications while you wait.

Understanding your rights and following the right steps gives you the best chance of a fair resolution, even during slow hearings.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Service New Brunswick
  Phone: 1-888-762-8600
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB)
• For rental listings or to find temporary housing during a dispute, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Official Government of New Brunswick Page
3. Tenancy Forms – New Brunswick

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