Dealing with pests and bedbugs can be stressful for renters. This guide explains, in plain language, what landlords in New Brunswick are generally responsible for, what tenants should do when they find an infestation, and how to use official forms and the tribunal if issues are not resolved. You’ll find clear steps for reporting, documenting evidence, and protecting your rights as a tenant, plus links to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and public health guidance. If you live in New Brunswick and face recurring pests or bedbugs, this article helps you understand practical timelines, who pays for treatments, and how to escalate disputes in a way that preserves your options.
Landlord and tenant responsibilities
Under New Brunswick tenancy rules, landlords must provide and maintain a habitable rental unit and act on infestations in a timely manner. Tenants must report problems and cooperate with reasonable treatments. If a problem is not resolved, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order.[1] The province's residential tenancies legislation explains basic obligations for health and habitability.[2] For health guidance about bedbugs, follow public health recommendations when documenting and treating infestations.[3]
Landlord responsibilities
- Arrange and complete professional extermination within a reasonable time after being notified by the tenant.
- Pay for treatments when the infestation existed before the tenant moved in or was not caused by tenant behaviour.
- Provide proper written notice before entry for inspection or treatment and respect tenant privacy.
- Keep written records of notices, treatment invoices, inspection reports and follow-up visits.
Tenant responsibilities
- Serve written notice to the landlord as soon as you discover pests, and keep a dated copy for your records.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection and professional treatment after receiving proper notice.
- Document the problem with dated photos, notes and receipts for any personal treatments or replacements.
- Follow instructions from pest-control professionals, such as laundering bedding and reducing clutter before treatment.
When remediation doesn't happen
If your landlord does not arrange treatment or the problem continues, try these steps before filing an application:
- Call or write to the landlord and request a timeline for professional treatment in writing, and keep copies.
- If there is no response or action, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to request an order for remediation and cost recovery.[1]
- Follow public health advice on preventing spread and protecting vulnerable household members while waiting for remediation.[3]
FAQ
- Who is usually responsible for the cost of extermination?
- In New Brunswick the landlord is generally responsible for arranging and paying for professional extermination when the infestation exists at move-in or results from building conditions; if tenant actions caused the infestation, the landlord may seek cost recovery. For disputes, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[1]
- How quickly must a landlord act after I report bedbugs?
- Landlords must act within a reasonable time to address health and habitability risks; what is "reasonable" depends on the infestation severity and availability of treatment, but you should ask for a clear timeline in writing and keep records.
- Can I withhold rent until my unit is treated?
- No. Withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction. Instead, document the issue, notify the landlord in writing, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order if the landlord fails to act.[1]
How-To
- Document the infestation with dated photos and written notes before treatments.
- Notify the landlord in writing immediately and request a timeline for professional treatment.
- Prepare your unit for treatment by following pest-control instructions, such as laundering bedding and clearing floor space.
- Keep copies of invoices and receipts for any expenses related to treatment or replacement items.
- If the landlord does not act, call or write again and state you will file with the tribunal if unresolved.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and include your documentation and receipts as evidence.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep units habitable and arrange professional treatments for infestations.
- Tenants should report infestations in writing and keep dated evidence and receipts.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if remediation and cost recovery are needed.[1]
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick [1]
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) [2]
- Bedbug information and guidance — Government of Canada [3]
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