Many tenants and renters in New Brunswick face questions about how they will pay rent during screening. Source of income discrimination happens when landlords refuse applicants because of how they receive money—such as social assistance, disability benefits, or a housing subsidy—rather than whether they can meet rental obligations. This page explains what behaviour may be unlawful, how to document unfair screening, which government office handles complaints in New Brunswick, and the practical steps tenants can take to protect their rights and seek remedies.
What counts as source of income discrimination?
Source of income discrimination is when a landlord treats an applicant differently because of where their income comes from, not the amount or reliability of payment. Examples include blanket rules banning tenants on social assistance, refusing rental applications that rely on a housing subsidy, or demanding extra conditions only for tenants with certain income types.
Is source of income discrimination illegal in New Brunswick?
Whether a specific act is illegal depends on provincial rules and how human rights and tenancy laws apply. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles tenancy disputes and can provide directions on filing complaints about landlord conduct[1]. For legislative details and definitions, see the official provincial pages on residential tenancies and related acts[2].
If you believe you were denied housing based on income source, collect evidence and consider filing with the tribunal or asking for advice from tenant services. You can also review local guidance on tenant rights in New Brunswick for context and practical next steps.
Common landlord practices that may be problematic
- Requiring a guarantor only if rent will be paid from social assistance or a subsidy.
- Asking for unnecessary proof beyond standard income verification, such as repeated bank statements when other tenants provide a pay stub.
- Serving blanket advertisements stating "no welfare" or similar exclusionary language.
How to document discrimination and protect your application
Good documentation increases the chance of a successful complaint. Keep copies of emails, screening forms, photographs of listings that use exclusionary language, receipts showing timely rent payments, and notes from conversations with the landlord or agent. If possible, get witnesses or written statements that support your account.
FAQ
- Can a landlord ask about my income?
- A landlord may ask about income to assess ability to pay, but they cannot refuse you solely because your income comes from government benefits; context and local rules matter.
- What should I do if I suspect discrimination?
- Document the interaction, save messages and ads, request a written reason if denied, and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or tenant support services for advice.
- Will the tribunal make the landlord rent to me?
- The tribunal can order remedies, which may include compensation or other directions; it reviews evidence and applicable law for each case.
How-To
- Gather evidence: collect emails, screenshots of the listing, application responses, and rent payment records.
- Request clarification: ask the landlord in writing for the reason your application was denied and keep the reply.
- Seek advice: contact local tenant support or legal aid for guidance on whether the conduct likely breaches rules.
- File a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, following their form and deadlines.
- Attend any hearings prepared: bring originals and copies of documents, a timeline of events, and witness contacts.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information for New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - New Brunswick
- Residential tenancy forms and guides
- [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - New Brunswick
- [2] Residential Tenancies information for New Brunswick
- [3] Residential tenancy forms and guides
Additional resources: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and review local tenant guides for tailored tips. For related topics about deposits and paying rent, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and Tenant''s Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
