Facing sudden eviction, unsafe conditions, or a mental-health crisis while renting can be overwhelming. This guide gives New Brunswick tenants clear, practical self-help steps to find immediate support, document issues, and file official forms when needed. It explains how to contact emergency services, access crisis mental-health resources, request urgent repairs, and use provincial tenancy services to protect your rights. Wherever possible, the language focuses on straightforward actions tenants can take today — from collecting evidence and keeping records to asking for help from local housing programs. The goal is to keep you safe, informed, and ready to act while navigating New Brunswick’s rental rules and support options.
First steps when a tenancy crisis starts
If you feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. If the issue is non-urgent but needs fast action (like no heat or major plumbing leaks), document the problem and tell your landlord in writing. Keep copies of every message, photo, and receipt; detailed records help if you need to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[1]
Practical actions to protect your rights
- Call emergency services if there is immediate danger or a health risk.
- Report urgent repairs to your landlord in writing and request a timeline for fixes.
- Collect evidence: photos, videos, dated messages, receipts, and witness names.
- Use official forms to file complaints or apply for a hearing with the provincial tribunal when needed.[1]
Official forms and when to use them
Below are common official forms tenants may need in New Brunswick and how to use them. Always check the Tribunal or Service New Brunswick site for the latest version before filing.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — used to start a formal hearing when a tenant and landlord cannot resolve a dispute. Example: you have unpaid repairs that the landlord won’t fix and you seek an order for repairs or compensation. See the Tribunal information for filing details.[1]
- Notice to Terminate Tenancy — used when a landlord or tenant gives formal notice to end a tenancy. Example: if you need to leave because the unit is unsafe, check the correct notice form and the timelines that apply.
- Request for Repairs / Habitability Complaint — used to record and escalate habitability issues to the tribunal or municipal enforcement when repairs are not made.
Finding immediate housing and supports
If you must leave your rental suddenly, contact local emergency housing services and crisis lines for mental-health support. For help locating rental homes quickly, consider using a national listings site to compare options and contact landlords fast: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.
When to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
Contact the Tribunal when informal requests to your landlord fail or when you need a formal decision about rent, repairs, eviction, or deposits. The Tribunal applies provincial tenancy legislation and can issue orders after a hearing. Before you file, read the legislation and required forms so you meet filing rules and deadlines.[2]
Useful links within this site
This page links to plain guides that explain local tenant obligations and emergency repairs in more detail. For an overview of legal rights in the province see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. For urgent repair and emergency procedure guidance see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
FAQ
- What should I do if my landlord tries to evict me without a valid notice?
- Ask for the eviction notice in writing, keep a copy, and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to file an application if the notice is missing required details or you believe the eviction is improper.[1]
- Can I withhold rent if repairs are not done?
- Withholding rent without legal advice can risk eviction. Instead, document the issue, give written notice to the landlord, and consider applying to the Tribunal for an order if the problem persists.
- Where can I get mental-health help during a tenancy crisis?
- Contact local crisis lines or provincial health services immediately; if you are in immediate danger call 911. Your community health centre can connect you to counseling and supports.
How-To
- Assess immediate safety and call 911 if you or others are at risk.
- Document issues with photos, dates, and written requests to your landlord.
- Complete and submit the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord does not resolve the issue.[1]
- Contact local housing supports and mental-health services for temporary help while the tribunal process proceeds.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Residential tenancy forms and filing instructions - Service New Brunswick
