Mold, Pests, and Health Hazards: Tenant Rights in New Brunswick

Moving into a new rental should be exciting, not worrying. But sometimes, tenants in New Brunswick face serious issues like mold, bed bugs, or other hazards that can affect your health and comfort. Knowing your rights, your landlord's duties, and what steps to take can help you deal with these problems quickly and effectively. This guide covers key points for tenants dealing with mold, pests, and other health threats in New Brunswick rentals.

What Are Health Hazards in Rental Properties?

Health hazards in rentals include anything that can pose a risk to your safety or well-being. In New Brunswick, the most common include:

• Mold growth (often caused by moisture issues)
• Pest infestations (like bed bugs, cockroaches, or rodents)
• Unsafe conditions (faulty wiring, leaking pipes, poor ventilation)

These hazards not only threaten your health—they may also violate provincial housing standards.

Your Landlord's Responsibilities

New Brunswick landlords must provide and maintain rental units that are clean, safe, and meet basic health standards. Under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick, landlords are required to:

• Keep the unit in good repair and comply with health, safety, and housing standards.
• Address serious safety issues like mold or pests in a reasonable time.

Tenants are generally responsible for keeping the space clean and reporting any problems promptly to the landlord.

Common Health and Safety Issues

Mold and pests are among the most challenging problems for tenants. Find more about potential threats in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What Tenants Should Do If They Find Mold or Pests

If you notice mold, bed bugs, or other hazardous conditions, act quickly to protect your health and your rights:

• Document the problem. Take dated photos and record details about when you noticed the issue.
• Notify your landlord in writing. Describe the hazard clearly and request prompt repairs.
• Allow reasonable time for the landlord to fix the problem. Most issues must be dealt with quickly.

For pests in particular, see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions for specific advice.

Filing a Complaint or Applying for Repairs

If your landlord does not respond or fix the issue, you can contact the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Here’s what you should know:

• Use the Application for Assistance (Form 1) to request help with unresolved repairs or safety hazards. This form is available here.
• Provide copies of your written requests to the landlord, photographs, and any other evidence.

Example: If you reported black mold in the bathroom and your landlord did not take action within days, you can complete Form 1, include your documentation, and submit it to the Tribunal to start an investigation or hearing.

Key Legislation and Tribunal Information

• The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick outlines both tenant and landlord rights and obligations.
• The Residential Tenancies Tribunal hears complaints and enforces rental laws.

For a summary of local rental laws, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Tips When Moving In and Out

Inspect the property carefully when moving in. Note any mold or damage on your move-in inspection and inform the landlord right away. For more, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

If you’re concerned about repairs or urgent health hazards, don’t wait—contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance.

To search for safe and affordable homes, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Health Hazards in New Brunswick Rentals

1. What should I do if I find dangerous mold in my rental?
   Document the problem, notify your landlord in writing, and allow a reasonable time for them to respond. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
2. Are landlords in New Brunswick required to fix pest problems?
   Yes, landlords must keep rental units free from infestations and handle repairs promptly as outlined by law.
3. What official form do I use for unresolved health hazards?
   Use the Application for Assistance (Form 1) available from Service New Brunswick to report unresolved repairs or dangerous conditions.
4. Is mold always the landlord’s responsibility?
   If the mold is from building leaks, structural issues, or other causes beyond tenant control, the landlord is responsible for repairs and cleanup.
5. How do I contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal?
   You can submit complaints and documentation through Service New Brunswick—online, in person, or by mailing the appropriate form.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must provide healthy, safe homes and promptly deal with mold and pest problems.
• Document issues, notify your landlord, and use official forms if problems aren’t fixed.
• The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is your main resource for dispute resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Service New Brunswick: For official forms, complaints, and dispute information.
• Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick: Full provincial rental laws.
• Local tenant advocacy groups and legal aid offices may offer free support if you need help with your case.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick: https://laws.gnb.ca/en/ShowDoc/cs/R-10.2
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Service New Brunswick: https://www.snb.ca/e/1000/1000-2/e/ten-sv-e.asp
3. New Brunswick Application for Assistance (Form 1): https://www.snb.ca/RTForms/Form1-en.pdf

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