Tenants in New Brunswick have specific rights when a repair affects habitability, safety or quiet enjoyment of their rental home. This guide explains typical timelines landlords should follow, how to give clear written notice, what to document, and when to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if problems are not fixed. It uses plain language so renters can understand next steps, required forms, and practical examples of urgent versus routine repairs. If you’re preparing a repair request or wondering how long a landlord has to act, these steps will help you protect your rights and get needed repairs handled quickly in New Brunswick.
What the law requires for repairs in New Brunswick
Landlords must maintain rental units in a reasonable state of repair so they are safe and fit to live in. In New Brunswick this is enforced under the provinces tenancy rules and by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. For official applications and more details see the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website[1] and the Residential Tenancies Act[2].
Who is responsible for what
- Landlord: major repairs and anything that affects health or safety, like heating, water, plumbing, and electrical systems.
- Tenant: routine cleaning, minor damage you or your guests caused, and timely reporting of problems.
- Both: follow lease terms for access and reasonable notice for repairs or entry.
Common urgent issues and how landlords should respond
- No heat during cold weather (affects habitability).
- No running water or major plumbing failure.
- Gas smell or exposed live wiring.
- Sewage backup or other health hazards.
- Respond within 24 hours for immediate health or safety problems when possible.
- Arrange emergency access and repairs as soon as the landlord is notified of a life-safety risk.
- If a repair cannot be completed immediately, the landlord should provide interim measures and a clear timeline.
Routine repairs and reasonable timelines
Routine repairs are items that do not create an immediate health or safety risk but still affect living conditions. Examples include leaky faucets, small holes, appliance repairs, and paint or flooring issues. For routine matters, landlords should schedule and complete repairs within a reasonable time based on the complexity of the work and availability of parts or contractors. If your landlord provides no timeline, ask for one in writing and keep records.
- Minor interior repairs such as a leaking tap or a broken door handle.
- Appliance repairs covered by the landlord (fridge, stove, furnace maintenance).
- Non-urgent cosmetic repairs that do not affect safety.
How to request a repair (practical steps)
Follow these steps to increase the chance of a fast and effective response: document the problem, give written notice, keep copies, and follow up if needed. If a landlord still does not act, you can apply to the tribunal for an order. See the application form details below[3].
Examples of written notice content
- State the problem clearly (e.g., "No heat in living room; thermostat reads 10C") and the date you first noticed it.
- Attach photos or a short video showing the issue when possible.
- Request a reasonable timeline (example: "Please repair or provide interim heating within 48 hours").
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
If a landlord does not address urgent repairs or fails to follow a promised timeline, tenants can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to request an order for repair, a rent abatement, or other remedies. The tribunal information and application forms are available on the official tribunal site[1]. Practical example: if you report no heat in freezing weather and the landlord does not act within the timeframe you requested, you can apply for an expedited hearing asking the tribunal to order repairs and compensation.
FAQ
- How fast must my landlord fix an emergency like no heat or a major leak?
- Landlords should address life-safety and emergency repairs as quickly as possible, ideally within 24 hours; if not fixed, contact emergency services for immediate danger and consider applying to the tribunal.
- Can I hire someone to fix a problem and deduct the cost from rent?
- Only follow this approach if the law and your lease allow it and after giving proper written notice; in New Brunswick you should check the Residential Tenancies Tribunal guidance before deducting expenses.
- What evidence helps a tribunal case about repairs?
- Keep dated written notices, photos or video, a repair log, receipts for any expenses, and records of missed responses from the landlord.
How-To
- Document the problem with photos or video and write the date and time you first noticed the issue.
- Send a clear written notice to the landlord describing the problem and requested timeline; keep a copy.
- Follow up by phone or message and record the conversation details in your log.
- If the repair is not done in a reasonable time, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using the official application form and include your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Report problems in writing and keep dated records and photos.
- Urgent safety repairs should be addressed immediately or within 24 hours where possible.
- If repairs arent done, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Application forms and tribunal contacts
- [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- [3] Tribunal application form and instructions
Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
