Who these rules apply to
Storage units and rented garages may be covered by provincial tenancy rules when they are included in a rental agreement or when a landlord manages them alongside a rental property. Whether a space is treated like a rental depends on the contract terms and how the facility is operated under New Brunswick law [1]. If you rent a unit from a private storage facility, additional contract terms and facility policies will also affect what happens at move-out.
Common move-out rules
These practical rules help tenants plan a safe move-out and reduce the risk of losing belongings or deposit money.
- Give written notice according to your rental agreement or the facility’s rules; notice periods vary by contract and situation.
- Arrange to remove all personal property by the agreed move-out date to avoid additional storage charges or disposal.
- Expect possible fees for unpaid storage charges or damage; keep receipts to dispute incorrect deductions from deposits.
- Document the unit’s condition with dated photos and an inventory before handing over keys as evidence of what you left behind.
- Use written notices or official forms when required and keep copies of every communication and any returned mail or delivery confirmation.
Notices, official forms and tribunals
If a dispute arises about whether property was abandoned, fees charged, or a deposit deduction, you may need to use official notices or apply to the provincial dispute body. Common documents include a Notice to Vacate or an Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal; use the tribunal application if you cannot resolve the issue with the owner or facility operator [2]. For step-by-step guidance and the formal forms used by New Brunswick, check the provincial resources and form pages [3]. For practical move-out planning also see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and the inspection checklist in The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.
If you will need a new place after vacating a storage unit or garage, consider searching listings early — Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help locate alternatives quickly.
FAQ
- Does residential tenancy law cover rented storage units and garages?
- It depends. If a storage unit or garage is part of a rental agreement or managed by your landlord as part of the tenancy, provincial tenancy rules can apply; standalone commercial storage businesses are usually governed by contract and consumer rules.
- Can a landlord dispose of my belongings left in a storage unit?
- A landlord or facility operator generally must follow notice requirements and disposal rules under contract and provincial law before disposing of tenant property; document the timeline and communicate in writing to protect your interests.
- How can I contest improper charges or deposit deductions?
- Start by asking the landlord or facility for an itemized statement in writing, keep evidence of the unit’s condition, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if you cannot reach an agreement.
How-To
- Make a dated inventory and take clear photos of everything in the unit before you begin moving.
- Provide written notice of your move-out date per your rental agreement and keep a copy or delivery receipt.
- Remove items by the deadline; if you cannot, notify the owner and request an agreed extension in writing.
- Return keys and request a walk-through or final inspection where possible, and record any comments in writing.
- If you are charged for damage or fees, ask for an itemized invoice and use evidence to dispute incorrect charges through the tribunal if needed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - New Brunswick
- Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies and Forms
