Short-Term Rental Rules Affecting Tenants in New Brunswick

Short-term rentals can change who lives next door, how buildings are managed, and what rules a tenant must follow in New Brunswick. If you rent, it helps to know how short-term rentals (like Airbnb or VRBO) may affect quiet enjoyment, building rules, safety standards, and the risk of lease changes or evictions. This article explains how provincial rules apply, what official forms and timelines to watch for, and practical steps you can take to protect your tenancy and safety as a renter in New Brunswick.

How short-term rentals can affect tenants

Short-term rentals in the same building or neighbourhood can increase traffic, change building security routines, or prompt landlords to change unit use. Tenants may face new house rules, altered access arrangements, or disputes about shared spaces. If your landlord wants to convert a unit for short-term rentals, that may lead to lease non-renewal or a change in tenancy terms, which must follow legal notice requirements.

What the law says and who to contact

Residential tenancy issues in New Brunswick are governed by provincial tenancy law and decided by the official tribunal. If you need to review the statute or contact the tribunal, use the province's official resources for legislation and filing forms^[1][2]. These pages explain the rules about eviction notices, landlord obligations, and tenant protections.

Common legal points tenants should know

• Tenants are generally entitled to quiet enjoyment and reasonable privacy under provincial rules.
• Landlords must follow legal notice periods before ending tenancy or changing access to a rental unit.
• Habitability and safety standards still apply even if a unit is used informally for short stays; repairs are the landlord's responsibility in most cases.

Official forms tenants may use

Below are the common official forms and when a tenant might use them. Links point to provincial pages with form downloads and instructions.^[2]

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (name/number varies): used when a landlord gives notice to end the tenancy; example: if your landlord serves a termination notice to repurpose the unit for short-term rentals, check the notice for the reason and timeline.
• Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal: used when a tenant disputes a notice, requests an order for repairs, or seeks reinstatement; example: file an application if you believe the termination is retaliatory or the landlord failed to follow notice rules.
• Repair or Maintenance Request Form: used to document and request required repairs; example: submit the form after repeated informal repair requests and keep copies as evidence.

Practical steps tenants can take

1. Keep a record of disturbances, notices, and communications with your landlord, including photos and timestamps.
2. Respond to any written notice within the timelines set out in the notice or statute and consider filing an application with the tribunal if you dispute it.
3. Contact tenant support services or legal clinics early for advice on whether the notice is valid and what evidence you need.

FAQ

Can my landlord convert my building units to short-term rentals and evict me?

Landlords may seek to change how units are used, but they must follow New Brunswick tenancy law and provide proper written notice. Tenants can challenge notices at the tribunal if procedures or reasons are improper.^[2]

What should I do if short-term guests cause disturbances?

Document incidents (dates, photos, witness names) and report them to your landlord in writing. If the landlord does not act, you can file a complaint with the tribunal and use documented evidence in your application.

Are landlords allowed to enter my unit to prepare it for short-term rentals?

Landlord entry rules still apply. Landlords must provide required notice and a lawful reason for entry; improper entry can be raised with the tribunal.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: save written notices, photos, and dated messages about disturbances or changes.
2. Check the official Residential Tenancies Act and tribunal guidance to confirm timelines and form requirements.^[1]
3. File the correct tribunal application form with supporting evidence before the deadline listed in the statute or notice.
4. Attend any tribunal hearing prepared to explain your position and present your records.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants retain statutory protections even when short-term rentals appear in the building.
• Document everything: notices, disturbances, repairs, and communications.
• You can use official tribunal forms to dispute notices or request remedies.

Help and Support / Resources

• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick
• Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

1. [1] Government of New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies legislation and guidance
2. [2] Government of New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies Tribunal and forms
3. [3] Government of New Brunswick - Tenancy forms and instructions