Quick Guide to Entry by Landlord Law in New Brunswick

Privacy & Entry by Landlord New Brunswick 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of New Brunswick

Being a tenant in New Brunswick involves understanding your rights, especially when it comes to your landlord’s ability to enter your rental unit. Protecting your privacy as well as ensuring smooth rental interactions requires familiarity with New Brunswick’s legal framework regarding landlord entry.

New Brunswick law generally requires written notice for non-emergency entries and defines emergencies that allow entry without notice. Keep a log of dates and times of any entry, save notices, and request written justification when entry occurs.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

In New Brunswick, landlords have specific circumstances under which they can legally enter a tenant’s dwelling. Understanding these conditions helps maintain a respectful landlord-tenant relationship.

Emergencies can override notice requirements, but ask the landlord to confirm the reason in writing and keep a record of what happened.
  • Emergency situations: Landlords can enter without notice if there is an emergency, such as a fire or flood.
  • Written notice: For non-emergency entries, landlords must typically provide a 24-hour written notice stating the reason and time for entry.
  • Agreed appointments: If both parties agree, entry can occur at a time not specified by a notice.

These conditions ensure that the tenant’s privacy is respected while allowing landlords to fulfill their legal and maintenance duties.

If a landlord enters without proper notice, document the incident (date, time, what happened) and consider filing a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or seeking advice from a tenant rights clinic.
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Legal Protections for Tenants

Tenants have the right to privacy in their rental homes. If landlords violate entry rights, tenants can address these issues legally.

If a landlord violates your privacy rights by entering without proper notice, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or seek guidance from a tenant advocacy group.

Tenants may refer to the How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide for guidance on raising concerns.

It is essential for tenants to document any unauthorized entries thoroughly. This documentation can serve as evidence should a dispute arise. Tenants are also encouraged to become familiar with their broader rights under New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act1.

Forms and Processes

If a tenant faces persistent issues with unauthorized entries, they may need to file a complaint with New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Tribunal. The tribunal is designed to address such tenant-landlord disputes effectively.

For more details on tenant and landlord rights specific to the province, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick page.

To prepare a complaint, gather copies of any notices, dates of entries, photos or other evidence, and any correspondence with your landlord. Bring these documents when you contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Resources for Further Assistance

Tenants feeling overwhelmed by landlord interactions can explore additional resources and seek guidance from local tenant advocacy groups. Finding a reliable source for rental listings can also ensure better housing options in the future. View available rentals coast to coast to explore your housing alternatives.

  1. What if my landlord enters without giving notice? Your landlord must have a valid reason or emergency to enter without notice. If not, this could be a breach of your rental agreement.
  2. How do I handle repeated unauthorized entries? Document each incident, communicate with your landlord, and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if needed.
  3. Can I refuse my landlord entry? You can object if the entrance doesn't comply with legal standards, such as lack of notice or inappropriate timing.

  1. Review your rental agreement regarding entry terms
  2. Communicate any entry disputes with your landlord promptly
  3. Make use of official support channels for tenant rights in New Brunswick

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

For further assistance, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick. Tenant advocacy groups are also available to provide support and guidance on handling housing issues.


  1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal
  2. Complaint handling guide
  3. Residential Tenancies Act 1

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Marie Dubois
Marie Dubois

Bilingual Housing Rights Advisor, Tenant Rights Canada

Marie covers tenant rights across Quebec and the Atlantic provinces in both English and French. With a background in Quebec civil law and residential tenancy, she is a trusted voice on the Tribunal administratif du logement process and francophone tenant rights.