Facing an eviction hearing can be stressful for tenants. This guide explains what kinds of evidence renters in New Brunswick should gather, how to organize records, and which official forms and tribunal rules apply. You will learn practical steps for collecting lease agreements, rent receipts, photos, repair requests, written communications, and witness names. It also explains when to file applications with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, how to prepare copies for everyone at the hearing, and simple tips for presenting documents clearly. The language is plain so renters can follow deadlines, protect their rights, and feel prepared for a hearing in New Brunswick.
Before the hearing
Start preparing as soon as you receive a notice or learn a landlord has applied for eviction. Gather original documents, make clear copies, and prepare a short chronology of events to guide the tribunal through your evidence.
Documentary evidence
- A copy of the lease or rental agreement.
- Proof of rent payments: receipts, bank statements, or e-transfers.
- Any official notices received or served.
- Records of repair requests and the landlord's responses.
- Written communications: texts, emails, or letters with dates and sender info.
- Photographs and short video clips showing condition issues, damage, or safety concerns.
- Receipts for repairs you paid for or replacement of damaged items.
- Names and contact details of witnesses who can confirm dates or conditions.
Notices and official forms
Know which official forms apply and when to use them. Typical documents include the landlord's notice to terminate and the tenant's application or response to the tribunal. If you need to file an application or find official forms, follow the tribunal process and keep proof of filing.[3]
- Notice to Vacate or Notice to Terminate from the landlord (save the original).
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or tenant response forms.
- Any prescribed evidence or checklist the tribunal requests.
At the hearing
The hearing will usually be led by a tribunal chair or adjudicator. Bring originals plus at least one copy for the tribunal and one copy for the landlord or their lawyer. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal sets procedural rules you must follow, and the applicable legislation sets the legal tests for eviction.[1] [2]
- Arrive early so you can set up your documents and confirm the start time.
- Bring organized binders with numbered tabs for each exhibit.
- Bring copies of each document: one for the tribunal, one for the landlord, and one for yourself.
- Prepare a short chronology to explain events in order.
- If witnesses will attend, confirm their availability and prepare a one-paragraph statement for each.
Presenting evidence
- Label exhibits clearly (Exhibit 1, Exhibit 2) and refer to them by number when speaking.
- Use a table of contents in your binder so the adjudicator can follow quickly.
- Bring digital copies on a USB only if the tribunal allows electronic files; otherwise use printed copies.
- Keep a short, factual script to explain each exhibit and why it supports your position.
If you want more background on tenant rights and typical disputes, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them. If you need to look for new housing while resolving a dispute, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- What counts as acceptable evidence at an eviction hearing?
- Acceptable evidence includes the lease, rent payment records, receipts, photos, repair requests, written communications, witness statements, and official notices.
- Do I need to bring originals?
- Bring originals when possible and provide at least one clear copy for the tribunal and one for the landlord or their representative.
- What if I cannot afford a lawyer?
- You can represent yourself, ask for legal aid referrals, or seek community legal clinics that help tenants with documents and tribunal preparation.
How-To
- Collect all documents listed above and make two copies: originals and tribunal copies.
- Organize documents into a clear binder with numbered exhibits and a table of contents.
- File any required application or response with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and keep proof of filing.[3]
- Contact witnesses in advance and give them a short written statement to read if needed at the hearing.
- On the hearing day, present exhibits by number, speak clearly, and follow the adjudicator's directions.
Key Takeaways
- Keep a dated record of rent payments and any receipts to support your payment history.
- Bring originals and at least one copy for each party to the tribunal.
- File required forms promptly and keep proof of delivery or filing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act — Government of New Brunswick
- Forms and guides for tenants — Government of New Brunswick
