Renters in New Brunswick need clear information from their landlords to protect health, safety and finances. This guide explains what landlord disclosures tenants can expect, why those disclosures matter to renters, and practical steps when information is missing or unclear. It covers common topics such as deposit details, known safety hazards, planned entry or repairs, and how to use provincial complaint routes. Wherever possible, the language is plain so tenants can act confidently, gather evidence and meet deadlines required by New Brunswick rules and the Residential Tenancies system.
What landlords must disclose
Landlords in New Brunswick must give tenants key facts about the rental and any conditions that affect habitability or safety. If you need formal help, the province’s Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes and information about rights and processes is available from the tribunal Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1].
- The name and contact details for the owner or property manager so tenants can report urgent issues.
- Known health or safety hazards (for example, significant mould, plumbing problems, or heating failures) and any recent repairs that affect habitability.
- Any required deposit amounts, how the deposit is held and conditions for its return. See details on deposits below and consult Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know when you move in.
- Advance notice of scheduled entry for repairs or inspections, and any required notices to end or change the tenancy.
Timing, forms and legislation
New Brunswick tenancy rules are set out in provincial legislation and administrative procedures; tenants and landlords should refer to the Residential Tenancies Act and related forms for exact timelines and requirements Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1] and the official legislation page for the Act[2]. Commonly used official forms include notices to terminate or to request repairs — these forms tell you how and when to serve a document and are linked on provincial pages for tenants and landlords[3].
What to do if a landlord won’t disclose required information
Follow these tenant-focused steps if disclosures are missing: first, ask in writing and keep a copy; second, document the issue with photos, dates and names; third, use the provincial complaint process if necessary. You can also seek help from community legal clinics or tenant services.
- Send a clear written request for the disclosure and keep a dated copy or photo of the request.
- If the issue affects habitability (no heat, major plumbing failures, serious mould), report it immediately and follow up in writing.
- If the landlord does not respond, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or follow the official complaint steps on the tribunal site[1].
Important disclosures related to deposits and safety
When you pay a security deposit, ask for a written receipt that states the amount, the purpose and where it will be held. Receipts and deposit terms help protect tenants at move-out. If the issue involves safety or health, such as mould or carbon monoxide risks, landlords should disclose known problems and repairs; for general safety guidance see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
FAQ
- What is a mandatory landlord disclosure?
- A mandatory disclosure is factual information a landlord must provide that affects a tenant’s health, safety, finances or legal rights, such as known hazards, deposit terms, and notice of entry.
- How long does a landlord have to provide information when asked?
- There is no single timeline for every disclosure; some notices must follow specific timelines in the Residential Tenancies rules. If a deadline applies, it will be in the governing form or law.
- What can I do if a landlord refuses to disclose required information?
- Start by asking in writing and keeping records, then apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or seek tenant legal advice if the landlord still does not provide the information.
How-To
- Gather your documents: lease, receipts, photos and any written requests you have already made.
- Request the disclosure in writing and specify what information you need and a reasonable deadline.
- Wait the reasonable time indicated by law or the form; note the date you sent the request.
- If there is no response, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your evidence.
- Attend any scheduled tribunal mediation or hearing and bring originals of receipts, photos and communications.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick)
- Government of New Brunswick — Tenancy information and forms
- Official residential tenancy forms (New Brunswick)
