Mold and Pest Infestations: Tenant Rights in NB

New Brunswick renters often face mold or pest problems that affect health and comfort. If you are a tenant dealing with visible mold or repeated pests, you have practical options: report problems in writing, request timely repairs, keep dated photos and communication records, and use provincial complaint processes when needed. This guide explains what New Brunswick law expects of landlords and tenants, how to document issues, what official forms and tribunals handle disputes, and how to protect your health while resolving infestations. The information below is written for tenants and renters who need clear, step-by-step actions and links to the province's official resources to get help quickly.

What New Brunswick law requires

The Residential Tenancies framework in New Brunswick sets landlord obligations for maintaining safe, habitable housing, including addressing mold and pest infestations promptly. If repairs are needed, tenants should notify the landlord in writing and give a reasonable opportunity to fix the problem. When issues continue, tenants can apply to the tribunal for an order.^[1] For the law itself, see the provincial Residential Tenancies legislation.^[2]

Steps tenants should take

• Create dated records of mold or pest sightings, repairs requested, and landlord responses.
• Send a clear written repair request to your landlord describing the problem and asking for action within a reasonable time.
• Allow access for legitimate inspections and repairs while protecting your privacy and belongings.
• If the issue affects health or safety, emphasise the urgency and keep medical notes if relevant.

When to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or government

If a landlord does not address mold or pests after a written request, tenants may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to seek orders for repairs or compensation.^[1] The tribunal reviews evidence such as photos, repair requests, inspection reports, and any medical notes. You can also request inspections by appropriate public health or building officials when the infestation creates a health risk.

Evidence that helps your case

• Photos and short videos showing mold growth, pest droppings, or entry points.
• Copies of written repair requests, texts, emails, and notes of phone calls with dates.
• Receipts for any reasonable temporary repairs or cleanup you paid for after giving the landlord notice.

Repairs, temporary fixes, and paying for work

Tenants should not generally withhold rent as a first step. If the landlord refuses to act after notice, the tribunal can order repairs or compensation. In limited situations, tenants may arrange emergency repairs and seek reimbursement if they followed proper notice steps; keep all receipts and proofs of attempts to contact the landlord.

Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and other supports

For tips on preventing mold and reducing pest attractants (ventilation, prompt leak repair, cleaning common entry points), consult tenant-focused safety guides. For situations where pests are chronic or linked to building-wide problems, your building manager or landlord must address the root cause. For tenant-focused pest guidance specific to rental situations, see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

FAQ

Who is responsible for treating mold or pests in my rental?

Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining habitability and arranging necessary treatments or repairs; tenants should notify landlords in writing and keep records.

What if my landlord won’t fix the problem?

If the landlord does not act after written notice, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for orders to compel repairs or compensation.

Can I get reimbursed for emergency repairs I paid for?

You may seek reimbursement if you gave proper notice and the repair was reasonable and necessary; keep receipts and document attempts to contact the landlord.

How-To

1. Write a dated repair request describing the mold or pest issue and deliver it to your landlord in a traceable way.
2. Collect photos, videos, and any medical notes that show the impact of the issue.
3. If there is no timely response, contact your local public health or building inspection office to report a health or code concern.
4. Prepare and file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, attaching all evidence and a clear request for orders.
5. Attend any scheduled hearing, present your evidence calmly, and keep copies of tribunal decisions.

Key Takeaways

• Report mold or pests in writing and keep dated records of all contacts and evidence.
• Use photos, receipts, and medical notes to support tribunal applications if repairs are not made.
• Apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal when reasonable repair requests are ignored.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
• Residential Tenancies legislation - Laws of New Brunswick
• Service New Brunswick tenant information and forms
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
2. [2] Residential Tenancies legislation - Laws of New Brunswick
3. [3] Service New Brunswick tenant information and forms