Pregnancy can raise stressful questions for tenants who worry about discrimination when renting or renewing a lease in New Brunswick. This guide explains tenant rights in plain language, what behaviour may be unlawful, which official forms and tribunals to contact, and practical steps you can take to gather evidence and protect your housing. Whether you are facing a refusal to rent, threats of eviction, or unfair terms tied to pregnancy, the article helps renters understand timelines, how to submit an application to the tribunal, and how to document incidents so complaints are effective.
What New Brunswick law covers pregnancy and housing
Provincial tenancy law and human rights protections prohibit discrimination on the basis of pregnancy and sex. Tenants can rely on the Residential Tenancies Act and provincial human rights protections to challenge refusal to rent, eviction threats, or different treatment because of pregnancy. See the main legislation for definitions and limits [1] and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for filing and hearing procedures [2].
Common examples of pregnancy-related rental discrimination
- Refusing to rent or showing a different willingness to rent because you are pregnant or expect a child.
- Threatening eviction or serving a notice tied to pregnancy rather than a lawful reason.
- Demanding higher deposits, extra fees, or different payment terms because of pregnancy or anticipated children.
- Failing to address habitability or safety issues that affect pregnant tenants or newborns.
- Harassment, invasive questioning, or repeated privacy violations related to pregnancy.
What to do if you think you were discriminated against
Step 1 — Gather evidence
Collect written notices, emails, text messages, screenshots of ads or listings, names of witnesses, and a log of phone calls or in-person conversations. Photos or videos of posted notices or conditions can help.
Step 2 — Try to resolve directly and request clarification
Politely ask the landlord or property manager to explain the decision in writing. A clear written refusal or policy can be important evidence for a tribunal application.
Step 3 — File with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or human rights body
If direct resolution fails, you can file an application with the tribunal for tenancy issues or a human rights complaint for discriminatory conduct. The tribunal handles tenancy disputes, including eviction and deposit issues, while human rights bodies handle discrimination claims; you may choose one or both depending on the situation [2].
Official forms and when to use them
Below are common official documents tenants in New Brunswick may use. Always download the latest version from the official tribunal or government page before filing.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (tenancy application form): used to ask the tribunal to hear disputes like wrongful eviction, unlawful notice, deposit disagreements or discriminatory treatment. Example: you file this form to request an order preventing eviction after a landlord says they will end tenancy because you are pregnant. See the official tribunal page for the form and filing instructions [2].
- Notice of Termination or Notice to End Tenancy (official notice forms): used by landlords to end a tenancy for permitted reasons; tenants should check whether the notice cites a lawful ground. Example: if the notice cites non-payment but the real reason mentioned in conversation was pregnancy, keep both the notice and any messages as evidence.
Remedies and orders the tribunal may grant
The tribunal can dismiss unlawful notices, order compensation for losses, require repairs, or rescind eviction orders. Remedies depend on the evidence and the specific remedy requested in your application.
Moving, finding new housing, and safe alternatives
If discrimination forces a move, keep records of costs and dates. If you need to search for a new rental, consider verified listing sites and tools to filter for safe, non-discriminatory landlords. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you browse listings and map results when looking for suitable alternatives quickly.
Key Takeaways
- Pregnancy-related discrimination in housing is prohibited and can be challenged through formal processes.
- Keep detailed records, copies of notices, and witness names to support a complaint.
- Use the tribunal application form to request remedies like stopping an unlawful eviction.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am pregnant?
- No. Refusing to rent based on pregnancy is discriminatory; you can gather evidence and apply to the tribunal or a human rights body for remedies.
- What if my landlord says they need the unit for renovations and asks me to leave while I am pregnant?
- If the reason is legitimate and documented, there may be lawful grounds, but a landlord cannot use a false renovation claim to evict someone for discriminatory reasons; check notices and seek tribunal guidance.
- How long do I have to file a complaint?
- Time limits vary by type of claim; file as soon as possible and check tribunal deadlines for filing applications.
How-To
- Document the incident: save messages, take screenshots, note dates and witness names.
- Request a written explanation from the landlord and keep any replies.
- Download and complete the tribunal application form, attaching supporting documents and your written timeline.
- Submit the application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and follow up on hearing dates and evidence deadlines.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) - CanLII
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick
