Rent & Deposits Checklist for New Brunswick Tenants

Navigating the rental process in New Brunswick can feel overwhelming, especially for new tenants. To help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the key steps around rent and deposits, we've put together a practical, step-by-step checklist. This guide uses plain language, legal accuracy, and up-to-date local information so you can start (or continue) your tenancy with confidence in New Brunswick.

Getting Started: What to Know Before Moving In

Before signing a lease or paying any money, always review the terms of the tenancy agreement closely. In New Brunswick, rental arrangements are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act as administered by the Office of the Rentalsman¹. This agency is your primary point of contact for rental laws, forms, and dispute resolution.
Key early steps:

• Review and sign a written tenancy agreement (also called a lease or rental contract).
• Confirm any pre-paid rent and deposit amounts before handing over money.

Security Deposits in New Brunswick

Landlords can request a security deposit but must follow these rules:

• Maximum deposit is equal to one week's rent for weekly rentals or one month's rent for monthly rentals.
• Deposit must be placed in trust with the Office of the Rentalsman, not the landlord.
• Always get a receipt for the deposit paid.

For an in-depth explanation of rental deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Initial Property Inspections

Although not mandatory by law, it's highly recommended to conduct a move-in inspection with your landlord. Document the state of the unit and take clear photos as evidence of its condition. This helps avoid disputes when moving out. For more practical guidance, refer to our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Official Forms You May Need

• Application for Assistance – Form 1
  When to use: If you have a dispute regarding deposits, unpaid rent, or repairs and wish to formally apply for help to the Office of the Rentalsman.
  Example: If your landlord refuses to return your security deposit after you move out, fill out Form 1 and submit it promptly.
  Access Form 1 and all official forms here.²
• Security Deposit Return Form
  When to use: At the end of your tenancy, this form requests return of your deposit (with accrued interest).
  Example: After passing the final inspection, file this form with the Rentalsman's office if your deposit isn't automatically returned.
  Get the Security Deposit Return Form.²

Paying Rent: Key Rules

Rent is usually due on the first of each month unless otherwise specified in your agreement. It's best to pay using traceable means (cheque, e-transfer, etc.). Always collect receipts for your payments. To learn more about responsible rent payment, visit Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Rent Increases and Deposit Adjustments

While New Brunswick does not have provincially legislated limits on rent increases, your landlord must give at least three months' written notice before increasing rent on a year-to-year or month-to-month tenancy. Review each notice carefully to ensure it complies with the law.

Move-Out: Getting Your Deposit Back

At move-out, ensure the unit is as clean and undamaged as when you moved in. If you did a move-in inspection, use it for comparison. Your security deposit (with interest) should be returned unless there is documented damage or unpaid rent. File a Security Deposit Return Form with the Office of the Rentalsman if there is any delay or issue.
For more details on move-out procedures, deposit returns, and minimizing disputes, you can read about How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Provincial Tenant Rights and Legal Resources

To fully understand your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. You'll find key facts on eviction, privacy, repairs, and handling issues.

FAQ: Rent and Deposits for New Brunswick Tenants

1. How much can my landlord ask for a security deposit?
   The maximum is one week's rent for weekly tenancies or one month's rent for monthly agreements. Landlords must deposit this with the Office of the Rentalsman, not keep it themselves.
2. What do I do if my landlord refuses to return my security deposit?
   Fill out the Security Deposit Return Form and submit it to the Office of the Rentalsman. This agency will investigate and, if justified, order the return of your funds.
3. Do I have to do a move-in inspection in New Brunswick?
   It's not legally required but strongly recommended for protecting your rights. Both you and your landlord should document the rental’s condition at move-in.
4. When is my rent considered late in New Brunswick?
   Rent is late the day after it's due (usually the first of each month). Your landlord can serve a notice for late payment if rent remains unpaid afterward.
5. Where do I go if I have a rental dispute in New Brunswick?
   Contact the Office of the Rentalsman, which handles rental complaints, mediation, and deposit disputes.

How To: Common Rental Tasks for Tenants in New Brunswick

1. How to request your security deposit back:
   After moving out, complete the Security Deposit Return Form and file it with the Office of the Rentalsman if your deposit is not returned within seven days.
2. How to respond to a rent increase notice:
   Carefully review the notice for required information and proper timing. If you feel it's unfair or not in compliance, contact the Office of the Rentalsman for advice.
3. How to document your unit's condition at move-in:
   Take clear photos and complete a checklist noting any existing damage. Have both you and the landlord sign and date it, keeping a copy for your records.

Key Takeaways

• New Brunswick requires deposits to be held by the Office of the Rentalsman—not the landlord—and sets maximum deposit limits.
• Use official forms for disputes or deposit return requests, and always document rental conditions with photos and written checklists.
• Know your legal rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and contact the Rentalsman for help with issues.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rentalsman (NB): Official Tenancies Agency, Complaint Forms, Guides, FAQs
• New Brunswick Legal Aid Services: Housing and Apartment Help
• Additional Support: Explore your municipal resources, and Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

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1. See the Office of the Rentalsman: Official Government Rental Information for New Brunswick
2. Find official forms at: New Brunswick Residential Tenancy Forms

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