How much can my landlord ask for as a security deposit in New Brunswick?

Landlords can request up to one month's rent as a refundable security deposit, which must be placed in a trust account.

How much notice is required for a rent increase?

Landlords must give at least three months' written notice before raising your rent in New Brunswick, and can only increase rent once every 12 months.

Can my landlord keep my deposit for minor damages?

Only significant damages or unpaid rent can be deducted from your deposit. Normal wear and tear cannot be used as a reason to keep your security deposit.

What do I do if I disagree with a rent increase?

File an Application for Assistance with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal before the increase takes effect to dispute it officially.

Do I get my deposit back with interest?

Yes. After moving out, your deposit should be returned with interest, unless there are valid deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

New Brunswick Tenant Guide: Rent & Deposits Explained

Rent & Deposits New Brunswick published July 01, 2025

Renting in New Brunswick comes with unique rights and responsibilities. Whether you're moving in, worried about a deposit, or facing a rent increase, it’s crucial for tenants to know the rules. This guide demystifies rent and deposit issues, outlining practical steps to protect yourself and highlighting where to turn for help if things don’t go smoothly.

Setting and Paying Rent in New Brunswick

Landlords and tenants must agree on the amount of rent and the due date before a tenancy begins. Your landlord cannot request more than one month's rent in advance.

Rent is due on the date stated in your lease agreement.
Receipts: Always request and keep receipts for each payment.
Missed or late payments may result in a Notice of Termination from your landlord, so communicate early if you anticipate issues.

For more details on paying rent and managing your payments, see the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Rental Deposits: What’s Allowed?

In New Brunswick, landlords can ask for a security deposit, but only up to one month's rent. This deposit protects the landlord if the tenant causes damage beyond normal wear and tear or fails to pay rent.

The landlord must deposit your security payment in a trust account within 7 days of receiving it.
Tenants should always receive a written receipt for the deposit.
Deposits cannot be non-refundable.

If you want to learn more about deposit rules, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Getting Your Deposit Back

At the end of tenancy, your security deposit must be returned (with interest, if eligible), provided there are no damages or unpaid rent. Typically, this happens 7 days after you and your landlord agree on the deposit amount or a Residential Tenancies Officer makes a decision. Document your unit’s condition with photos at move-in and move-out for extra protection.

Rent Increases: Notice and Rules

Landlords in New Brunswick can raise rent only after giving proper written notice:

For month-to-month rentals, at least three months’ notice is required.
Notice must be in writing and include the new rent amount and the date it takes effect.
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.

If you believe the increase is unfair or did not follow the proper process, you can dispute it by applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Official Form to Dispute a Rent Increase

Form: Application for Assistance (Residential Tenancies Tribunal)
When to Use: If you have concerns about a rent increase or any rent-related issue, complete this form and submit it to the Tribunal.
Download the Application for Assistance form (PDF) [Government of New Brunswick]
Example: Sally receives a rent increase notice that doesn’t give her three months’ advance warning. She completes the form, attaches a copy of the notice, and submits it within the specified timeline.

For more on this process, review the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick website.

Common Rent & Deposit Problems

Tenants often face issues, such as:

Disputes over security deposit returns
Inadequate notice for rent increases
Non-receipt of receipts or formal paperwork
Incorrect deduction from deposits for normal wear and tear

Always resolve disagreements in writing, and keep copies for your records. For general guidance on dealing with everyday issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Tenant Protections Under New Brunswick Law

Your rights as a renter are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick. This law sets out rules for deposits, rent, eviction, and dispute resolution.

Tip: Read your lease carefully before signing and ask questions if anything is unclear. If you need to compare your rights with other provinces, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Most disputes can be solved through open communication. If you need help, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal offers guidance and official dispute channels.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much can my landlord ask for as a security deposit in New Brunswick? Landlords can request up to one month's rent as a refundable security deposit, which must be placed in a trust account.
How much notice is required for a rent increase? For most rentals, landlords must give at least three months' written notice before increasing rent, and only one increase is allowed every 12 months.
Can my landlord keep my deposit for minor damages? No, only damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent can be deducted. Minor wear like small nail holes or faded paint should not result in deductions.
What do I do if I disagree with a rent increase? File an Application for Assistance with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal before the increase takes effect to dispute it officially.
Do I get my deposit back with interest? Yes, after moving out, your deposit should be returned with interest, provided there are no deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

How-To: Manage Rent & Deposit Issues in New Brunswick

How do I dispute a rent increase notice? Review the notice for proper timeframe and details, then file an Application for Assistance with the Tribunal before the increase occurs.
How do I ensure my deposit is returned? Document the condition of the unit with photos at move-in and move-out, complete a final inspection with your landlord, and keep records of all correspondence.
How can I get an official receipt for my rent or deposit? Request a written receipt each time you pay and keep copies for your own records.

Key Takeaways for New Brunswick Tenants

Rent increases require at least three months’ written notice and are limited to once per year.
Security deposits cannot exceed one month’s rent and are returned with interest, barring valid deductions.
Know your rights by reviewing the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick and seek help if disputes arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick – official portal (forms, rules, help)
Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
Contact local legal aid clinics or tenant advocacy groups for personalized advice

Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick – full text
Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick – official forms and info