Tenants in New Brunswick need to understand how eviction notices are served so they can respond quickly and protect their rights. This guide explains common service methods — personal delivery, registered mail, posting at the unit, and substituted service — and what evidence to keep when you receive a notice. It covers timelines under New Brunswick tenancy rules, how to file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, and practical steps to respond, pay, or dispute a notice. If you are worried about an eviction for non-payment or other cause, this plain-language overview helps renters know what to expect and how to act, including where to find official forms and contact information.
Methods of service
In New Brunswick, landlords use a few common ways to serve eviction notices. Which method is valid depends on the wording of the notice, any rules in the lease, and the Residential Tenancies Act.[1]
- Personal service: the landlord or agent hands the notice directly to the tenant or an adult at the rental unit; this provides immediate proof of receipt.
- Registered mail or courier: sending by registered mail creates a delivery record and is commonly used when parties live apart or to show the date a notice was sent.
- Posting on the door: when other service attempts fail, a notice may be affixed to the unit door; check local rules about whether posting alone is sufficient.
- Substituted or formal service through the Tribunal or sheriff: for some legal steps, formal service arranged by the tribunal or sheriff may be required before a hearing can proceed.
What makes a notice effective
A valid eviction notice must clearly state the reason for termination, the date the tenancy ends, and how it was served. If you receive a notice and the landlord intends to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, you will be given information on how the application was served and what hearing date to expect.[2]
- Deadlines and time to respond: notices often give a short period to remedy the issue (for example, pay arrears) or vacate; act fast and check exact dates.
- Evidence to keep: keep the notice, photos, text messages, receipts for rent payments, and any repair or communication records.
- Copies: always make and keep dated copies of notices and any responses you send to the landlord or tribunal.
Responding and next steps
If you receive an eviction notice in New Brunswick, read it carefully and do one of the following based on the reason and timeline:
- Pay what you owe before the deadline if the notice is for non-payment and you can reasonably do so; keep receipts as proof.
- Write a clear response to the landlord if you dispute the reason, and keep a copy of your letter or email.
- If the landlord applies to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, prepare your documents and make sure you know the hearing date and how service was completed.
FAQ
- How will I know if an eviction notice is legally valid?
- Check that the notice shows the reason, an end date, and how it was served; confirm the notice refers to the Residential Tenancies Act and the landlord followed required steps.[1]
- What if I did not receive a notice but the landlord says they served it?
- Ask the landlord for proof of service (a receipt, postal tracking, or affidavit). If service is disputed, bring this up at the tribunal hearing and request clarification about how service was attempted.[2]
- Where do I get the official forms to respond or apply to the Tribunal?
- Official notice and application forms are available through Service New Brunswick and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website; use the form that matches your situation and follow the filing instructions.[3]
How-To
- Gather documentation: collect the notice, rent records, photos, communication logs, and receipts to support your response.
- Respond in writing: send a short, dated response to the landlord explaining whether you accept, plan to remedy, or dispute the notice.
- File or prepare for a tribunal application: if the landlord files, get the tribunal paperwork, submit your evidence, and note the hearing date and service method.
- Attend the hearing or request an adjournment if you need more time; present your evidence calmly and follow tribunal directions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Contact and information
- Service New Brunswick - Residential tenancies information and forms
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) legislation
