Getting evicted from your rental can be overwhelming, especially if you are unsure where to turn next. In New Brunswick, several tenant-advocacy groups and support organizations are available to help tenants after an eviction. Understanding what help is available is crucial, whether you need emergency shelter, legal advice, or assistance navigating government resources.
Understanding Tenant Rights and Post-Eviction Support in New Brunswick
Facing eviction is stressful, but tenants in New Brunswick have legal rights and can access specialized help. It’s important to know what steps to take, who to contact, and which community or provincial organizations can provide the needed support after you leave your rental home.
Key Tenant Advocacy Organizations
- New Brunswick Tenants’ Rights Collective: Offers advice and information about tenant rights, eviction support, and practical help connecting with local resources.
- St. John Human Development Council – Housing Support: Assists evicted tenants with emergency shelter, finding new housing, and accessing social services.
- Transition Houses (Province-wide): Provide emergency housing and support, especially for families or individuals leaving unsafe homes or sudden evictions. Find transition houses in New Brunswick.
- Legal Aid New Brunswick: Offers free or low-cost legal advice regarding rental rights, eviction process, and appeals for eligible tenants. Visit Legal Aid NB
These organizations offer guidance, help you understand your legal situation, and may be able to represent you if you want to challenge an eviction.
Where Can Tenants Appeal or Question an Eviction?
If you believe your eviction was unfair, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles most tenancy disputes in New Brunswick, including post-eviction matters. This tribunal oversees compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick1.
Official Eviction and Appeal Forms
If you disagree with your eviction or need to respond formally, you must use the correct forms. Here are the key ones:
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Application to Review a Notice of Termination (Form RTB-4):
This form is used to challenge an eviction notice. You must submit it to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal within seven days of getting a Notice of Termination.
Download Form RTB-4 from Service New Brunswick
Example: If your landlord gives you an eviction notice you disagree with, fill out RTB-4 and submit it with supporting documents to the Tribunal. -
Application for Assistance (Emergency Social Assistance):
For tenants left homeless or in financial crisis post-eviction, this form helps you access temporary shelter and emergency funds.
Apply through Social Development NB
Example: If you have nowhere to go after eviction, use this to get support for immediate housing and basic needs.
Filing these forms promptly is critical—strict deadlines apply.
Common Actions Tenant Groups Help With
- Explaining your legal rights and responsibilities
- Assisting with filling out government or tribunal forms
- Connecting you to emergency shelters and social assistance
- Referrals to food banks, employment services, and mental health support
- Providing information for moving, storing belongings, and reclaiming rental deposits
To learn more about your ongoing rights after eviction in New Brunswick, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
For those seeking a fresh start, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for user-friendly listings and helpful search tools.
Other Considerations After Eviction
- If you paid a security deposit, you may be entitled to get it back (minus any rightful deductions). Learn your options in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
- When you move into a new rental, make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities. Start with What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
This assistance ensures you know what to expect as you look for new housing and can help you avoid repeating difficult situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What support is available for tenants who have been evicted in New Brunswick?
Many advocacy groups and local agencies can assist with emergency housing, legal advice, and connecting tenants to essential services post-eviction. - Can I challenge an eviction notice in New Brunswick?
Yes, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using Form RTB-4 if you believe your eviction was not lawful. - How quickly should I act after receiving an eviction notice?
You must act fast—forms like the Application to Review a Notice of Termination (RTB-4) must be filed within seven days of receiving the notice. - Are there resources to help me find a new rental home after eviction?
Yes. Local housing support offices, online rental platforms, and tenant groups offer search help. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme. - Will I get my damage deposit back after eviction?
In most cases, if you leave the unit in good order and owe no rent, you are entitled to the return of your security deposit after moving out.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Evicted Tenants
- Reach out quickly to tenant advocacy and legal support organizations after an eviction.
- Know your rights, deadlines, and which official forms to submit.
- Access available provincial and community resources to find stable housing and financial help.
Proactive action gives you the best chance at a smooth recovery and finding safe, affordable accommodation.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: Official website for tenant-landlord disputes
- New Brunswick Legal Aid: Legal advice and representation
- St. John Human Development Council: Housing support program
- Social Development NB (Emergency Social Assistance): Apply for emergency shelter or financial support
- Transition Houses: Support for urgent housing needs
