New Brunswick Tenant Move-In Checklist: Legal & Practical Guide

Preparing to move into a new rental home in New Brunswick is both exciting and overwhelming. A thoughtful approach guided by legal knowledge helps tenants protect their rights, document property conditions, and address accessibility or discrimination concerns. This comprehensive checklist is tailored for New Brunswick renters, covering the steps that safeguard you before, during, and immediately after move-in day.

Before You Move In: Secure Your Rights and Responsibilities

In New Brunswick, residential rentals are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal administers and enforces these laws, handling disputes and forms. Here’s what to do even before signing your lease:

• Obtain a copy of your written lease agreement. Review all terms—note rent amount, period, included services, and accessibility arrangements, if applicable.
• Review your rental deposit terms. Learn your rights by visiting Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Check the accessibility of the property. Under the Act and the Human Rights Act, tenants are entitled to reasonable accommodations for disabilities^[2]. Discuss modifications with your landlord early if needed.
• Ask for the New Brunswick Condition Inspection Report Form. This official form is the best way to document the unit’s state at move-in.
• Research your rights in detail on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Official Forms You’ll Need

• Condition Inspection Report (Form): Not legally mandated but strongly advised. Use the sample form provided by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Download here. Use it on move-in day with your landlord to note any damage, cleanliness, or accessibility concerns.
• Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTB Form 1): If you face discrimination, delayed repairs for accessibility, or serious health/safety issues, you may apply for a remedy. Access RTB Form 1 here. Complete and submit as guided on the form for dispute resolution.

Most rental forms, tenant/landlord contact info, and the dispute resolution process can be found through the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

On Move-In Day: Inspect, Document, and Communicate

• Walk through the property (ideally with your landlord) using the Condition Inspection Report. Note cleanliness, damage, and accessibility barriers.
• Take date-stamped photos or videos of any concerns—even if you’ve completed the inspection form. Keep copies.
• Test vital systems: heating, plumbing, appliances, locks, and smoke detectors.
• If you spot health or safety issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for immediate steps.
• If discrimination or unaddressed accessibility needs arise, document and discuss options for accommodation promptly with your landlord.

If you encounter any serious maintenance or accessibility issues at move-in that aren’t resolved quickly, consider filing an Application to the Tribunal. For a full how-to, see below.

Settle In: Utilities and Keys

• Collect all keys, entry codes, and mailbox access from your landlord.
• Arrange for utilities (electricity, water, internet, etc.) to be set up in your name prior to, or on, move-in day.
• If something goes wrong with utility connection or possession, document communication attempts and keep written records.

For broader advice about moving logistics, you may want Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Protect Yourself: Know Your Rights Against Discrimination

New Brunswick law protects against discrimination based on disability, family status, age, race, and more under the Human Rights Act^[2]. Landlords must provide reasonable accommodation for tenants with disabilities unless it causes undue hardship. If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly:

• Keep detailed notes of what happened, including dates and those involved.
• Contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission for information or to file a discrimination complaint.
• For disputes about accessibility or accommodations in your unit, file a complaint with the Tribunal using RTB Form 1 as outlined above.

Tip: Address accessibility or discrimination concerns as soon as possible for quicker resolutions and to support your claim with written records.

What’s Next: Ongoing Tenancy Tips

With move-in complete, ensure you know where to get help or how to address any problems that arise. Familiarize yourself with:

• How and when to pay your rent, and keep receipts
• Routine maintenance and repair requests
• How to request accommodations for disabilities or family status changes
• Your landlord’s and your own responsibilities under the law
• Canada's best rental listings platform—Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Tribunal provides forms, guides, and FAQs for tenants at each stage.

FAQs: Moving Into a Rental in New Brunswick

1. Do I need a written lease in New Brunswick?
   While a written lease isn’t legally required, it is strongly recommended so all terms are clear. Ask your landlord for a written agreement and keep a copy.
2. What if my new unit isn’t accessible?
   If required accommodations aren’t made, contact your landlord first. If not resolved, seek guidance from the Tribunal or Human Rights Commission and file the relevant application.
3. Should I complete the Condition Inspection Report?
   Yes, this helps protect your security deposit and avoid disputes about unit damage when you move out. Complete it on or just before move-in day.
4. What are my options if I experience discrimination?
   Document what occurred and reach out to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission as soon as possible. Tribunal applications can also address some accommodation issues.
5. Where can I read more about my rights?
   You can visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for clear, up-to-date information about renting in the province.

Summary: Key Checklist Takeaways

• Complete a move-in inspection and document everything
• Understand and exercise your rights regarding accessibility and discrimination
• Use official Tribunal forms for problems that can’t be resolved directly
• Stay informed and seek help early if needed

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal – information, forms, and dispute applications
• New Brunswick Human Rights Commission – discrimination advice and complaint process
• Landlord and Tenant Information New Brunswick – official tenancy rules and resources
• Find support from local tenant associations or legal clinics for tailored, free advice

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act: Read the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. New Brunswick Human Rights Act: See Human Rights Act overview

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