Many renters in New Brunswick live with pets or rely on service animals. This guide explains how provincial tenancy rules apply to pets and service animals, what landlords can and cannot require, and practical steps tenants can take if they need an accommodation. It covers essential forms, timelines for filing disputes, tenant and landlord responsibilities, and how to document requests. If you are renting in New Brunswick and preparing to ask for an exception to a no-pet rule or to register a service animal, this article helps you understand your rights, how to communicate effectively with a landlord, and where to file an application if needed.
Can a landlord ban pets or service animals?
Landlords in New Brunswick may include a no-pets clause in a lease, but that restriction does not automatically apply to service animals or to requests for reasonable accommodation. Tenants who require a service animal for a disability are generally entitled to an accommodation, and landlords must consider supporting documentation and whether a reasonable accommodation is possible before refusing.
How to request accommodation for a service animal
Start by making a clear written request to your landlord, explain how the animal supports your disability, and supply any supporting documentation you have (for example, a letter from a health professional). Keep a dated record of all communications and copies of documents in case you need to escalate the issue to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[1]
What to include in your written request
- A short explanation of your disability and how the service animal helps you.
- Any supporting letters from health professionals or community agencies.
- A proposed plan for handling pet care, noise and damage (to reassure the landlord).
When a landlord refuses a service animal or pet request
If a landlord refuses, ask for the refusal in writing and request the specific reason. If the reason is safety, damage risk or undue hardship, the landlord must state this clearly. If you believe the refusal is unreasonable, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick to resolve the dispute.[2]
Documentation, evidence and practical tips
Good documentation helps in disputes. Photos, dated messages, receipts for pet-related repairs or vaccinations, and a log of incidents are useful. If the dispute proceeds to the tribunal, bring originals and copies of all materials and a clear timeline of events.
- Keep dated photos and records of any property damage and repairs.
- Note and respect any deadlines the landlord or tribunal sets for responding.
- Seek advice early from tenant help services or legal clinics if you are unsure.
Official forms and when to use them
Common forms include the tribunal application form to ask the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to decide on a dispute and notices related to termination or breaches. Use the tribunal application when informal negotiation fails and you need a binding decision. For example, if a landlord denies a service-animal accommodation and you have provided documentation, file an application to have the tribunal review the refusal and order a resolution where appropriate.[3]
Communication tips with your landlord
- Send written requests and keep polite, factual tone.
- Provide reasonable documentation but avoid sharing unnecessary medical details.
- Offer reasonable mitigation measures, like additional cleaning or a damage deposit, if allowed.
Where to find pet-friendly listings
If you are searching for a rental that allows pets, consider checking specialized listing tools that let you filter for pet-friendly options. Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca can help you find places that accept animals and save time when looking for homes that meet your needs.
FAQ
- Can a landlord ask for proof that an animal is a service animal?
- Yes, a landlord may request reasonable verification that the animal is used for disability-related needs, but they cannot require medical records; a letter from a health professional or community agency is usually sufficient.
- Can a landlord charge a pet deposit for a service animal?
- A landlord should not charge an additional pet deposit or fee solely because an animal is a service animal used for disability support; rules on damage deposits for other pets depend on provincial tenancy rules.
- What if my landlord ignores my written accommodation request?
- If your landlord does not respond or refuses without valid reason, you can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for a decision and remedies.
How-To
- Prepare a concise written request describing your need for the service animal and include supporting letters.
- Send the request to your landlord by email or recorded delivery and keep a copy of the sent message.
- Wait a reasonable period for a response, then follow up if needed and ask for reasons in writing if refused.
- If informal steps fail, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and include all documentation and a clear timeline.
Key Takeaways
- Service animals are generally entitled to accommodation even when leases ban pets.
- Keep written records of requests, responses, and supporting documentation for disputes.
- The Residential Tenancies Tribunal resolves disputes when negotiation does not work.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential tenancy information from Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal and services
