Tenants in New Brunswick often worry about privacy when they must appear before the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (often called the LTB in other provinces). Whether you are responding to a rent dispute, an eviction application, or a maintenance complaint, it helps to know what personal information may be shared at a hearing and how you can ask the tribunal to limit public disclosure. This guide explains common privacy issues tenants face at hearings, the types of evidence that may become part of the record, practical steps to request confidentiality or in-camera treatment, and how to prepare records safely. Use these plain-language tips to protect your personal details while asserting your renter rights at tribunal proceedings.
How privacy works at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes between landlords and tenants in New Brunswick. The tribunal follows the province's residential tenancies rules and publishes decisions in some cases; that means parts of a hearing can become part of a public record. If you are worried about sensitive personal information—such as health concerns, a history of domestic abuse, or banking details—you can ask the tribunal to limit what is published or to hold parts of the hearing privately.[1] The relevant provincial law governs what the tribunal can do and how to apply for privacy protections.[2]
What information commonly appears in the record
- Documented evidence such as photos, emails, text messages and written logs that parties submit as proof.
- Financial records like rent ledgers, deposit receipts and bank statements where rent, deposits or arrears are discussed.
- Notices, applications and tribunal forms filed by either party that describe the dispute.
- Hearing transcripts or summaries when the tribunal records evidence or reasons for its decision.
When the tribunal may hold private or in-camera hearings
The tribunal may agree to limit publication or hold part of a hearing in private when disclosure would cause undue harm. Common reasons include safety risks, medical privacy, or where third-party personal data is involved. To start this process, you normally need to explain why privacy is necessary and provide supporting documents (for example, a police report or a doctor’s note) while respecting rules of evidence. The tribunal's forms page explains how to submit such requests and what to include.[3]
How to ask the tribunal to protect your privacy
Follow these practical steps to make a clear, effective request:
- Identify the exact information you want withheld (for example, home address, phone number, or medical details).
- Gather supporting evidence showing the risk (police reports, medical notes, or witness statements).
- File your confidentiality request with the tribunal as soon as possible and meet any deadlines the tribunal sets for submissions.
- Explain whether you ask for an in-camera hearing, redaction of names, or a sealed file; be specific about what should be public and what should not.
Preparing evidence while protecting your personal data
When you prepare documents, consider creating a version that removes irrelevant personal details while keeping the facts the tribunal needs. For example, black out account numbers but keep dates and amounts visible. Keep an unredacted copy for the tribunal if requested, and explain why redaction was necessary. Share sensitive documents directly with tribunal staff when asked, not via public hearing materials.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I ask the tribunal to hide my name from the public record?
- Yes. You can request redaction or that hearings be held in-camera; provide reasons and supporting evidence so the tribunal can assess the risk.
- What proof should I bring to support a confidentiality request?
- Bring documents that show concrete risk: police reports, restraining orders, medical letters, or examples of harassment. The tribunal evaluates relevance and credibility.
- If a confidentiality order is granted, will my landlord still be notified?
- The landlord receives necessary notice about the case, but the tribunal can limit what parts of the record are published or who can access them; the order will explain any limits.
How-To
- Prepare a written request that states what information you want protected and why.
- Attach supporting evidence such as police reports, medical notes or witness statements.
- File the request with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal before the hearing or as soon as you know about the case.
- Attend the hearing prepared to explain your request and answer questions the adjudicator may have.
- If the tribunal grants privacy measures, read the order carefully to understand any limits and follow them.
Key Takeaways
- You can ask the tribunal to limit public disclosure when sensitive personal information is at risk.
- Provide clear reasons and supporting documents to improve the chance of a confidentiality order.
- Follow tribunal directions and keep copies of all filings and receipts for your records.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- Tribunal forms and filing instructions - Government of New Brunswick
