Tenant Privacy Rights in New Brunswick

Privacy & Entry by Landlord New Brunswick 2 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of New Brunswick

Understanding your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick is crucial, especially when it comes to privacy issues. Knowing when a landlord can enter your rental unit and what protections are available can help ensure your personal space is respected.

Legislation Protecting Tenant Privacy

The primary legislation governing tenant rights in New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Act. This Act outlines the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords, with specific provisions for tenant privacy and landlord entry. According to the Act, landlords can enter a rental unit only in certain circumstances and typically must provide 24-hour written notice.

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords may enter only for specific reasons and typically must give 24 hours’ written notice unless there is an emergency. If you believe a landlord entered improperly, document the incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

New Brunswick's Residential Tenancies Act specifies situations where a landlord can legally enter your rental unit, including:

  • Carrying out maintenance or repairs
  • Inspecting the premises to ensure compliance with the lease
  • Showing the rental unit to prospective tenants
  • In the event of an emergency

Outside of emergencies, landlords must provide at least 24-hour notice, specifying the reason for entry and the time.

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Protecting Your Privacy as a Tenant

Maintaining privacy in your living space is a right protected by law. As a tenant, you have several options for ensuring your privacy is respected:

Keep a simple privacy log—date, time, what happened, and any conversations. Send a brief written note to your landlord outlining your privacy concerns and what you expect moving forward.
  • Keep Communication Open: Clearly communicate your expectations about privacy with your landlord.
  • Document Concerns: If privacy issues arise, document them in writing and notify the landlord immediately.
  • Legal Remedies: If your landlord repeatedly violates your privacy, you may file a complaint with New Brunswick's Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
It is critical to know your rights and how to enforce them. If a landlord does not respect privacy regulations, you have avenues to address the situation legally.

For more on tenant and landlord obligations, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

If you need assistance regarding privacy or other tenancy issues, contact the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal. They provide resources and help mediate disputes between tenants and landlords.

For a comprehensive understanding, explore Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.


  1. What should a tenant do if they believe their privacy has been violated? Tenants should document each incident and communicate concerns to the landlord. If the issue persists, they can file a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
  2. Can a landlord enter a rental unit without notice? Generally, no. Landlords are required to provide 24-hour written notice, except in emergencies.
  3. What forms are important for New Brunswick tenants? The Notice to Enter form is essential for landlords when notifying tenants about entry. Tenants should familiarize themselves with this form available on the official tribunal site.

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Marie Dubois
Marie Dubois

Bilingual Housing Rights Advisor, Tenant Rights Canada

Marie covers tenant rights across Quebec and the Atlantic provinces in both English and French. With a background in Quebec civil law and residential tenancy, she is a trusted voice on the Tribunal administratif du logement process and francophone tenant rights.