Requesting Repairs in New Brunswick: Tenant Guide and Sample Letter

Knowing how to request repairs is essential if you’re renting in New Brunswick. As a tenant, you have the right to a safe, well-maintained home under New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act. This article covers the process for requesting repairs, explains official forms, and includes a sample letter to help you start the process.

Your Right to Repairs in New Brunswick

Tenants in New Brunswick are legally entitled to a rental home that meets health, safety, and maintenance standards. Landlords are responsible for fixing issues like broken heating, leaky roofs, unsafe wiring, or anything else that could affect your living conditions. Repairs are an important part of landlord obligations under the law.

Failing to address necessary repairs can impact your comfort and even safety. If you’re concerned about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting, you have the right to request attention from your landlord.

When to Request Repairs from Your Landlord

If you notice damage, malfunctioning equipment, or unsafe conditions in your unit or common areas, notify your landlord right away. Typical situations include:

• No heat in winter, broken appliances, or water leaks
• Unsafe stairwells or entryways
• Pest infestations or mold growth
• Broken doors or windows affecting security

You are not responsible for repairs due to normal wear and tear, but you must alert your landlord as soon as you spot problems. For details on routine and emergency maintenance, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

How to Request Repairs: Step-by-Step Process

Start by notifying your landlord about the repairs required. In New Brunswick, best practice is to make your request in writing and keep a copy for your records. This creates a clear timeline and paper trail if there are delays or disputes later.

• Step 1: Document the problem (photos, dates, location)
• Step 2: Write a request letter or email (sample below)
• Step 3: Allow a reasonable time for the landlord to respond
• Step 4: If no action, escalate to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

If repairs are urgent (such as no water or heat in winter), you may be able to contact local authorities, but always inform your landlord first.

Sample Repair Request Letter

This sample letter helps you formally request repairs. You can adjust the details based on your rental situation:

Subject: Request for Repairs

Date: [Enter today’s date]

To: [Landlord/Property Manager’s Name]
Address: [Landlord/Property Manager’s Address]

Dear [Landlord’s name],

I am writing to inform you about necessary repairs in my rental unit located at [your address]. The following problem(s) need to be addressed:
- [Briefly describe each issue – e.g., leaking kitchen faucet, no heat, broken window]

These repairs are required to maintain the property in a safe and liveable condition. I kindly request these issues be fixed as soon as possible.

Please let me know when the repairs will be made, or if you require further information.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Send this letter by email (with a request for acknowledgement) or by registered mail and keep a copy.

Official Form: Application for Assistance (Form 6)

If your landlord fails to carry out the repairs after your written request, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick for assistance.

• Form Name: Application for Assistance (Form 6)
• Use: For tenants asking the Tribunal to order repairs or to resolve a dispute with the landlord.
• Where to get the form: Download Form 6 from the Government of New Brunswick

Example: If your landlord does not respond after your written request, download Form 6, fill in your details, and describe the repairs needed. Submit it to the Tribunal as directed on the form.

What Happens Next?

The Tribunal will review your application, may contact your landlord, and can order repairs to be made. For more on your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Tips for a Smooth Repair Process

• Always keep a record of requests and communications
• Take photos of the problem as evidence
• Allow reasonable time for the landlord to make repairs (varies by issue)
• Contact the Tribunal if needed

To explore maintenance tips and more, visit Houseme - your rental solution in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions about Repair Requests

1. What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   After a written request, if the landlord does not act, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using Form 6.
2. How long does my landlord have to respond to a repair request?
   There is no specific legal timeframe, but landlords must act within a reasonable period—sooner for urgent or safety-related repairs.
3. Can my landlord evict me for asking for repairs?
   No. It is unlawful for a landlord to evict or threaten eviction because you exercised your right to request repairs.
4. Who pays for repairs?
   Landlords cover repairs due to normal wear, maintenance, or safety, but you could be responsible if the damage is due to negligence or misuse.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants are entitled to a safe, well-maintained home; landlords must fix problems quickly.
• Make all repair requests in writing and keep copies of communication.
• If your landlord does not comply, use Form 6 to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

For related topics, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: Official site for tenant-landlord disputes and resources
• Tenant and Landlord Services (GNB): Forms, guides, and general information
• For legal advice or advocacy: Contact local tenant aid offices or legal clinics

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act: View the current legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: Official government resource
3. Form 6 - Application for Assistance: Official form download

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