Winter in New Brunswick brings safety and access concerns that affect renters every year. This guide explains tenant and landlord responsibilities for snow removal and winter maintenance in plain language, outlines habitability and repair steps, and shows how to document problems and raise complaints with the proper provincial authority. Whether you rent a house, apartment, or condo, the information below helps you know when to ask your landlord to act, how to protect your rights, and what forms and timelines apply if a formal application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal is needed.
Who is responsible for snow removal in New Brunswick?
Under New Brunswick tenancy rules, landlords are generally responsible for keeping a rental unit and common areas safe and fit for habitation, which usually includes clearing snow from shared walkways, stairs, entryways and ensuring heating systems operate. Tenants are typically expected to keep private areas they control clear if the lease says so, such as a private driveway or a balcony. When responsibilities are unclear, check your written lease and communicate in writing with your landlord.
Typical landlord duties
- Clear snow and ice from common sidewalks, entry stairs and building entrances.
- Remove heavy roof or balcony snow that creates safety risks to the unit or public areas.
- Ensure heating systems and hot water function during cold weather.
- Respond to tenant repair requests and keep records of maintenance work.
Common tenant duties
- Clear snow from private entrances, balconies or driveways if the lease assigns that task.
- Report hazards or heating failures promptly and provide photos or other evidence.
- Follow any seasonal parking or access rules that affect snow removal.
If a landlord does not act, tenants can ask for repairs or file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for New Brunswick to resolve disputes and request orders for repairs, clearance, or compensation[1][2].
When to report problems and which forms to use
Document the problem, tell your landlord in writing, and keep records of dates and evidence. If informal requests fail, file the appropriate tribunal application form available from the provincial site. The typical form is the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and supporting forms for evidence and repairs; use them to explain the hazard, steps you already took, and the remedy you seek (repair, clearance, or compensation)[3].
Steps to take before filing
- Take clear photos or video of snow- or ice-related hazards and note times and dates.
- Notify your landlord in writing (email or text) and request action with a reasonable deadline.
- Keep copies of messages, receipts for any paid emergency work, and records of follow-up.
For more on landlord and tenant duties you can read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and for health or safety concerns see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
If you are searching for a winter-safe rental or moving after a bad experience, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings and building features like heated entryways or cleared parking.
FAQ
- Who pays for snow removal on sidewalks beside a rental building?
- Landlords are typically responsible for clearing sidewalks that serve multiple tenants or the public; private driveways may be the tenant's responsibility if agreed in the lease.
- Can a landlord deduct snow-clearing costs from my rent?
- Only if your lease expressly allows deductions or you agreed in writing; otherwise, landlords should follow rules for lawful deductions and provide receipts or evidence for any charges.
- How long does the tribunal process take for an urgent winter safety issue?
- Timing varies; tribunals can prioritize urgent safety applications but expect process time for filings and hearings — document hazards and request expedited consideration when filing.
How-To
- Document the issue: take photos, note dates and times, and keep any related receipts or messages.
- Notify your landlord in writing, describe the hazard, and ask for action by a reasonable deadline.
- If no response, download and complete the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach evidence.
- File the application with the tribunal, request expedited review if there is an immediate safety risk, and attend any scheduled hearing with your documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords generally must keep common areas and heating systems safe during winter.
- Keep dated photos and written requests to build a strong record if you need to apply to the tribunal.
- Use the official tribunal application forms to request repairs, clearance, or compensation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Applications and information
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Forms and applications for tenancy disputes
