Tenants often face questions about moving big furniture or using building elevators in New Brunswick. This guide explains typical building rules, tenant and landlord responsibilities, required notices and forms, and practical safety steps you can take before, during, and after a move. Whether you live in an apartment managed by a landlord or a strata-style building with shared elevators, knowing how to book elevator time, protect common areas, and document any damage helps protect your deposit and rights as a renter. Where provincial rules apply, this article points to official New Brunswick resources and sample forms so tenants can follow correct procedures and avoid surprises during a move.
Rules and responsibilities
In New Brunswick, tenants and landlords share responsibilities when large items are moved through common spaces. Buildings often set reasonable rules to protect elevators, hallways, and lobbies: these can include booked elevator windows, padding requirements, limits on hours for moves, and requirements that movers carry insurance. Always ask your landlord or property manager for the building's written moving policy and any required forms before scheduling movers. [1]
Before you move
Prepare early to reduce risk of damage and disputes. Communicate with your landlord, confirm elevator availability, and get any approval the building requires. If the building requires a deposit to cover potential damage, ask for written details about the amount, how it will be held, and the conditions for return.
- Book elevator time with the landlord or building manager and confirm move hours.
- Ask whether padding or protective coverings are required for doors, walls, and elevator interiors.
- Confirm whether the building requires proof of insurance from the moving company.
- Get any written permission or conditions from the landlord to avoid later disputes.
Using elevators safely
Elevators are shared property; misuse can lead to repair bills or safety incidents. When moving, use protective covers, avoid overloading, and follow the building's booking system. If an elevator is damaged during a move, the property manager may request payment for repairs — this should be supported by invoices and an explanation. If you disagree with charges, keep records and consider filing a formal dispute with the tribunal. [2]
Damage, deposits and cost recovery
Landlords may be able to recover repair costs from tenants if damage results from negligent moving. Keep these steps in mind:
- Take photos and videos of common areas before and after the move as evidence.
- Request itemized repair invoices if the landlord claims damage and a deduction from your deposit is proposed.
- Ask for a written explanation of any charges and how they relate to the original condition report.
How to document and respond
Good records protect tenants. Photograph damage, save receipts, keep the move booking confirmation, and send a dated note to the landlord if damage is found. If you receive a formal deduction notice or billing, respond quickly and request copies of repair invoices. If you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord, you can apply to the provincial tenancy tribunal for adjudication. [2]
Insurance and mover selection
Check whether the moving company carries liability insurance and whether your renter's insurance covers accidental damage during moves. If the building requires the movers to be insured, ask for proof before they start work. Using professional movers with insurance reduces the chance you will be held personally responsible for large repair bills.
When official forms or notices are needed
Certain situations use official forms — for example, if a landlord seeks compensation for repairs or if a tenant files an application with the tribunal. Know the correct forms and deadlines before filing. [3]
FAQ
- Do I need landlord permission to bring large furniture through my building in New Brunswick?
- Most buildings require tenants to follow moving procedures and book elevators; ask for written approval so expectations are clear and you have a record.
- Who pays if the elevator or hallway is damaged during my move?
- If movers damage common areas due to negligence, the landlord may seek repair costs from the tenant or the moving company. Ask for invoices and dispute charges if they are unreasonable.
- What can I do if I disagree with repair charges or deposit deductions?
- Document the condition, request itemized invoices, attempt to resolve with your landlord, and if needed, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
How-To
- Contact your landlord and book elevator time at least 7 days before your move.
- Arrange protective coverings for floors, walls, and elevator interiors and photograph the areas before the move.
- Confirm movers' insurance and collect written proof to give to the building manager if required.
- After moving, inspect common areas with the manager if possible and keep a dated photo record.
Key Takeaways
- Get written moving rules and approvals from your landlord before booking movers.
- Document condition of common areas with photos and timestamps to protect your deposit.
- Ask for itemized repair invoices before agreeing to any charges for damage.
Help and Support / Resources
- Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies information
- New Brunswick legislation search (Residential Tenancies Act)
- New Brunswick Justice and Public Safety - dispute resources
