Sexual harassment by a landlord can be frightening and confusing for renters. This guide explains what behaviour may be unlawful in New Brunswick, how tenants can document incidents, which official forms to use and where to get help from the tribunal or government services. It is written for tenants and renters who need clear, practical steps—how to stay safe, preserve evidence, report the behaviour and seek remedies. Whether you rent a room, apartment or house, this information shows the local processes, timelines and supports available to protect your rights and safety in New Brunswick.
What counts as sexual harassment by a landlord?
Sexual harassment can include unwanted sexual comments, requests for sexual favours, touching, leering, coercive behaviour, or any conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating or hostile environment for a tenant. It may occur during visits, through messages, when entering a rental unit, or as a condition of tenancy. These actions may breach the Residential Tenancies Act and can be brought to the attention of the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or other authorities.[1][2]
Your rights and legal protections in New Brunswick
Tenants in New Brunswick have rights to privacy, safety and a harassment-free living environment. If a landlord's behaviour is sexual harassment, you may be able to:
- Request that the landlord stop the behaviour and provide notice that the conduct is unacceptable.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to seek orders or remedies.
- Contact local police if you face immediate danger or criminal conduct.
Keep in mind that harassment can also engage human rights protections if it is connected to a protected ground; consider both tenancy and human rights processes depending on your situation.
How to document incidents and gather evidence
Thorough documentation strengthens a tenant's case. Record dates, times, exact words, witnesses, messages, photos of physical evidence and any repairs or forced entries connected to the conduct. Save texts, emails and voicemails and keep a secure copy. Note any changes in your living conditions caused by the harassment.
- Keep a dated log of each incident with location and witness names where possible.
- Save and back up screenshots, photos, messages and voicemail recordings.
- Request any tenancy-related documents in writing and keep copies for your records.
If you need step-by-step advice on making a formal complaint within your rental context, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide for practical next steps and templates.
Reporting, official forms and timelines
To start a tribunal application, tenants typically complete the required application form for the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and submit it following the instructions on the government site.[3] The form will ask you to describe the conduct, indicate desired outcomes and provide supporting evidence. Expect administrative timelines and possible hearing dates; act promptly and follow any deadlines shown on notices or tribunal correspondence.
For information about tenant and landlord responsibilities that affect harassment and access, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained so you understand duties such as lawful entry and repairs.
If you must consider relocating for safety, the housing market and available listings can be searched online; for a nationwide rental search option see Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.
FAQ
- Can a landlord enter my unit without consent while harassing me?
- No. Landlords must follow legal entry rules; repeated unlawful entry that is sexual or harassing can be evidence for the tribunal or police.
- What immediate steps should I take after an incident?
- Prioritize safety: leave if you are in danger, contact police for emergencies, document the incident, and save messages or photos as evidence.
- Will reporting to the tribunal affect my tenancy?
- Filing an application asks the tribunal to resolve the issue; protection from retaliation is available but you should keep detailed records of any reprisal by the landlord.
How-To
- Ensure immediate safety: go to a safe place and contact police if you are threatened.
- Document everything: write dates, times, witnesses and save messages and photos as evidence.
- Complete the tribunal application form and attach your evidence, following the official filing instructions.[3]
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or Service New Brunswick for process details and hearing dates.[2]
- Consider legal or community supports such as legal aid, a clinic, or victim services for representation or emotional support.
- Keep track of deadlines and attend all hearings or meetings; bring organized evidence and a clear statement of what you want the tribunal to order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick)
- Residential tenancies forms and applications (Service New Brunswick)
