Many renters in New Brunswick face questions about landlord showings before they move out. This guide explains tenants' rights and practical steps for accepting or limiting viewings, what notice is reasonable, how to protect privacy during showings, and how to document the unit for the final inspection. It covers what to expect from your landlord and what you can reasonably ask for as a tenant, using plain language and clear examples so you can plan your move, avoid disputes over the security deposit, and prepare evidence if disagreements arise. Provincial rules and official forms are linked so you can follow the correct process.
What landlords can and cannot do
In New Brunswick, landlords generally have the right to show a unit to prospective tenants or buyers but must follow the rules about notice and reasonable times. The provincial Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes and guidance for both tenants and landlords[1], and the Residential Tenancies Act sets out legal notice and entry provisions for the province[2]. If a landlord does not follow the rules you may be able to file an application with the tribunal or seek remedies under the Act.
Notice, timing and reasonable access
Landlords should give advance notice of showings in writing and arrange times that are reasonable for both parties. While the exact minimum notice can vary with circumstances, ask for written confirmation of dates and times and suggest windows that work for you. If the request is last-minute or happens repeatedly at inconvenient times, document it and raise the issue in writing with the landlord or property manager.
- Ask for written notice of showing times and keep copies of messages and emails.
- Suggest reasonable time windows (for example, mid-afternoon or early evening) if you have work or childcare commitments.
- Only allow access to the unit at agreed times; if you cannot be present you may permit a trusted person to represent you.
Preparing for showings and documenting condition
Before any scheduled showings, do a quick tidy and focus on safety and privacy: remove or secure valuable items and personal documents. You should also take date-stamped photos or videos so you have proof of the unit's condition before viewings and before the final inspection. That documentation can help protect your security deposit and support any later dispute about damage or cleaning.
- Take clear, dated photos and short videos of each room, appliances, and any existing damage.
- Notify the landlord of your planned move-out date in writing and confirm showing schedules around that date.
- Request a copy of any move-out or showing checklist the landlord uses so you know what will be inspected.
Final inspection, deposit and disputes
Ask for a scheduled final inspection and request that any findings be provided in writing. If the landlord proposes deductions from your deposit, ask for an itemized list with receipts or estimates. If you cannot agree, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for a hearing to resolve the dispute[1]. For practical moving-out steps, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and for details about the inspection process see The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out and review provincial rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
FAQ
- Can my landlord show the unit without my permission?
- No. Landlords must give reasonable written notice and schedule showings at reasonable times; an emergency is the only common exception. If a landlord shows without proper notice you can document the event and consider applying to the tribunal.
- How much notice must a landlord give for showings?
- There is no single fixed time for every situation, but landlords should give advance written notice and agree on reasonable hours; ask for at least 24 hours when possible and request written confirmation.
- What should I do if a showing causes damage or a privacy breach?
- Document the damage or breach with photos, save communications, notify the landlord in writing, and consider filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord does not address the problem.
How-To
- Request written notice from the landlord for each scheduled showing and confirm times that work for you.
- Document the unit with dated photos and short videos before showings and keep copies of all communications.
- Be present for showings where possible or provide a trusted representative; lock away valuables beforehand.
- Schedule a final inspection with the landlord, get a written report, and request receipts for any proposed deductions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
