Quick Guide to Privacy Law in New Brunswick

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

Living in a rental property comes with certain expectations regarding privacy, which are protected under New Brunswick law. Tenants have the right to a home free from unwarranted intrusions by landlords, making it vital to understand your rights and responsibilities.

Your Rights to Privacy

In New Brunswick, privacy regulations focus on balancing the rights of landlords and tenants. As a tenant, you have the right to peaceful enjoyment of your home without undue interruptions. Landlords must respect your privacy, only entering the property under specified conditions.

When Can a Landlord Enter?

Landlords may only enter under circumstances such as:

  • In emergencies, such as a fire or urgent repairs
  • With written notice, typically at least 24 hours, outlining the reason for entry and timing
  • If you give consent for entry
Non-emergency entry generally requires written notice, usually at least 24 hours, with the reason and timing. If you never receive proper notice, log the dates and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance.

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick outline these specifics and provide tenants with a framework to address any disputes.

Notice Requirements

A landlord must provide written notice before planning to enter a rental unit for inspections, repairs, or viewings. This notice should clearly state the purpose of entry to avoid misunderstandings.

Additionally, notice requirements ensure you can plan accordingly. The written notice must contain specific details to be valid, which helps maintain your privacy rights.

Written notice should clearly state the reason for entry and the exact date/time. If the notice is missing or vague, ask the landlord to provide a proper notice before any entry occurs.
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Protecting Your Privacy

There are steps you can take to safeguard your privacy further:

  • Request written notices for all non-emergency entries
  • Discuss any issues of privacy breach directly with your landlord to try to resolve the matter amicably
  • Know the procedure for filing a formal complaint if necessary

Lease Agreements and Privacy

Reviewing your lease ensures you understand any clauses affecting your privacy. Be sure to negotiate terms you're uncomfortable with before signing.

Be aware that some leases include broad or vague privacy terms; push for specifics and written limits on entry before you sign, or you may face unexpected intrusions later.

Detailed advice on these stages can be found in resources such as the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained guide.

Always communicate with your landlord to clarify any situations about privacy and entry.

Resource Tribunal

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick is the official body that manages disputes between tenants and landlords. They provide a fair hearing platform to resolve issues and offer guidelines for both parties.

Prepare for a tribunal by collecting dates of entries, copies of notices, any communications with the landlord, and a private diary of privacy concerns to present at the hearing.

Visit the Service New Brunswick website for detailed information and assistance regarding tenant rights in New Brunswick.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  • Contact Service New Brunswick at 1-888-762-8600 for inquiries and assistance with tenant rights
  • Reach out to local tenant advocacy groups for support and advice
  • Explore Browse apartments for rent in Canada for a complete list of available rentals
Keep a dated log of all landlord visits and insist on written notices for each entry. If a privacy breach occurs, document it and consider filing a formal complaint.

  1. How can I stop my landlord from entering without notice?

    Discuss with your landlord first. If it continues, gather evidence and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

  2. What should be included in a landlord's notice to enter?

    The notice must state the reason for entry and planned timing, along with the landlord's contact details.

  3. Can a landlord enter for routine repairs without my permission?

    No, advance notice or consent is required for non-emergency situations.

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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.