Security deposits are a common part of renting, and knowing your rights helps you get money back when you move or when a tenancy ends. This guide explains how deposits and last-month rent are treated under New Brunswick tenancy rules, what landlords can deduct, what records tenants should keep, and practical steps to request a return or challenge an unfair withholding. It uses clear, tenant-focused language and points to the provincial tribunal and official forms so you can act confidently. Keep copies of your lease, move-in inspection notes and receipts — these documents are often decisive if there is a dispute.
What is a security deposit?
A security deposit is money a landlord may hold to cover unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. Some landlords also take a last-month rent deposit; the exact names and limits are set out in New Brunswick tenancy rules and legislation [1].
What can a landlord deduct from a deposit?
- Unpaid rent or arrears owed at the tenancy end.
- Costs to repair damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Reasonable cleaning costs if the unit is left unusually dirty.
- Any other charges expressly allowed in the lease and by law.
How to request your deposit back
Before you move, review your lease and the condition report. When tenancy ends, give the landlord a written request for the deposit and include an address for the return. For practical background on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. If you plan to move, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare options and timelines.
- Send a written request or application for the deposit return, keeping a dated copy for your records.
- Collect evidence: dated photos, receipts for repairs or cleaning, and the move-in inspection notes.
- Allow the landlord the statutory time to respond; check the Residential Tenancies Act for exact deadlines [1].
- If the landlord does not return the deposit or provides an unreasonable deduction, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal [2] using the official form [3].
Common evidence that helps tenants
- Move-in condition report and dated photos showing the unit at the start of tenancy.
- Receipts for rent payments, repairs you paid for, and professional cleaning if applicable.
- Copies of written requests and any responses from the landlord.
FAQ
- Can a landlord keep a deposit for normal wear and tear?
- No. Normal wear and tear from regular use should not be deducted from a deposit; only damage beyond normal wear and tear may be charged.
- Do landlords have to pay interest on deposits in New Brunswick?
- Interest rules vary by jurisdiction and over time; check the Residential Tenancies Act or ask the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for current rules [1].
- What if my landlord won’t return the deposit?
- Start with a written request, then file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord refuses or fails to respond. The tribunal can order a refund and any applicable costs [2].
How-To
- Check your lease and provincial rules to confirm any deadlines and required steps.
- Gather evidence: condition reports, photos, receipts and copies of communications.
- Send a dated written request to the landlord asking for the deposit return and an itemized list of any proposed deductions.
- If needed, complete and file the tribunal application form and include all evidence to support your claim [3].
Key Takeaways
- Keep copies of all lease documents, condition reports and receipts to support your claim.
- Ask for the deposit in writing and respect statutory timelines for requests and tribunal applications.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord refuses to return an owed deposit.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Official tenancy forms and applications (New Brunswick)
