Discovering bedbugs or pests in a New Brunswick rental can be stressful—but you’re not alone, and you have rights. Understanding your remedies under provincial law empowers you to take action and enjoy a safe, healthy home. This guide explains what tenants in New Brunswick should do if faced with a pest infestation, details legal responsibilities, and shares practical steps for resolving pest issues.
Your Rights and Responsibilities Regarding Pest Control
New Brunswick tenants are entitled to live in a rental property that meets basic health and safety standards—including homes free from bedbugs, cockroaches, and other pests. Pest infestations are both health and safety issues, requiring prompt attention by landlords under the Residential Tenancies Act[1].
- Landlords are responsible for ensuring the rental is free of pests when you move in
- Tenants must maintain reasonable cleanliness and report problems promptly
Repeated or serious pest infestations—especially bedbugs—can affect your health, belongings, and peace of mind.
What to Do When You Find Bedbugs or Pests
If you notice signs of pests or bedbugs in your home, act quickly to protect your rights and health:
- Document everything: Take photos, record dates, and keep any pest-control reports
- Notify your landlord in writing ASAP: Email or hand-deliver a detailed letter describing the issue
- Request written confirmation: Ask your landlord to respond and outline their next steps
If your landlord does not act promptly or disputes responsibility, further action may be needed. Regular pest issues can also affect your enjoyment of the property and may be considered a breach of your rental agreement.
Key Tenant Advice
Always keep a written record of all communication with your landlord about pest problems. This can be crucial if you need to request repairs or escalate the issue.
How to File a Complaint or Get Help
Most pest problems should be addressed directly by your landlord. However, if they don’t take appropriate steps within a reasonable time, you have several remedies under New Brunswick law:
- File a formal complaint with the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal: This is the official body handling rental disputes (Residential Tenancies Tribunal)[2]
- Request compensation or a rent reduction for lost use/enjoyment of your home (especially for major infestations that cause you to lose belongings)
- Ask for an order requiring the landlord to conduct professional pest treatment
You can use the Application for Assistance / Complaint (Form 6) when your landlord does not resolve a pest problem. Explain your situation, include documentation, and submit it to the Tribunal.
- When to use: After written notice to the landlord has not resulted in proper action
- How to submit: Mail, online, or in person to the Tribunal
- Access Application for Assistance / Complaint (Form 6)
For more practical guidance, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for ways to protect yourself and your living space.
Pest Infestation: Shared Responsibilities & Solutions
Resolving pest problems in rentals is a shared responsibility. Landlords must arrange for qualified pest control where necessary, while tenants must cooperate with access (for treatments) and follow care instructions, such as laundering bedding or clearing clutter.
- Do not dispose of furniture or belongings until you have instructions from pest control professionals
- Do not withhold rent without following legal steps, as this could put your tenancy at risk
- Seek advice if ongoing infestations are disrupting your life
For effective solutions and your rights with other pest issues, see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
For in-depth guidance on tenant and landlord duties, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Legislation and Further Reading
Your rights regarding pest and bedbug infestations are protected by the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act[1]. This law outlines both landlord and tenant responsibilities for keeping rental homes safe and habitable.
For a summary of local rules, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if I find bedbugs in my New Brunswick rental?
Notify your landlord in writing right away, document the infestation with photos, and request prompt action. If there’s no response, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using Form 6. - Is my landlord required to pay for pest control treatments?
Yes. Landlords in New Brunswick are responsible for the cost and arrangement of pest treatments, unless you caused the problem through negligence. - Can I break my lease because of bedbugs or persistent pests?
If your landlord fails to properly address a severe infestation, you may have grounds to request the Tribunal’s approval to end your tenancy early. Always seek advice or file a formal complaint before moving out. - Am I allowed to withhold rent if my landlord isn’t dealing with pests?
No. You must continue paying rent unless the Tribunal authorizes a reduction or remedy. Not paying rent could put your tenancy at risk of termination.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Both tenants and landlords share responsibilities to keep rentals pest-free under New Brunswick law
- Document and communicate all pest issues quickly; use official complaint forms if landlords do not act
- Supporting evidence is key when requesting repairs, compensation, or a rent reduction
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick: Tenant complaint forms, information, and dispute resolution
- Legal Information Society of New Brunswick – Housing: Free tenant info and support
- Rental Standards & Safety, Province of New Brunswick
- New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act: Read the legislation here
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (NB): Official site
