If your landlord changes the locks or otherwise prevents you from accessing your rental unit in New Brunswick, act quickly to protect your safety, your belongings and your legal rights as a tenant. This guide explains immediate steps to take, how to document the lockout, when to call police, and the tribunal process that can restore access or award remedies. It also describes official forms you may need, how to present evidence at a hearing, and practical tips for finding temporary housing while a dispute is resolved. The language is plain and focused on tenant actions so you can move forward with confidence and know where to get official help.
What to do right away
Take these steps immediately when a lockout happens. Keep communication calm, factual, and documented.
- Call 911 if you feel unsafe or if the lockout involves threats or violence.
- Take dated photos and videos of the door, any notices, and the surrounding area; keep a log of times and who you spoke to.
- Ask the landlord in writing (text or email) to restore access immediately and keep copies of that message.
- Note the exact time you discovered the lockout and any deadline the landlord gives you.
- Try to secure temporary safe access to essentials (medication, ID) without breaking the law or causing property damage.
Legal remedies and filing with the tribunal
In New Brunswick, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to get an order restoring access or awarding compensation when a landlord locks out a tenant unlawfully[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act sets the rules about entry, locks and remedies under provincial law[2]. If a lockout is unlawful, the tribunal can order the landlord to restore access and may award rent abatement or other compensation.
To start a claim you normally complete the tribunal application form and include evidence such as photos, messages, and a timeline of events[3]. If you need clarity on responsibilities before filing, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and the province overview at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
What evidence helps your case
Organize clear, dated evidence to show the tribunal what happened and when. Good evidence speeds resolution and strengthens your claim.
- Photographs and videos showing changed locks, notices, or damage.
- Copies of written messages, emails or text requests asking the landlord to restore access.
- A written timeline listing times, dates and names of witnesses or police officers.
Possible outcomes and enforcement
The tribunal may order the landlord to restore possession, pay compensation for lost use or damage, and cover tribunal costs. If the landlord ignores a tribunal order, you can ask court or enforcement services to make the order take effect.
FAQ
- Is it ever legal for a landlord to change locks?
- Landlords generally cannot change locks to block a tenant from accessing a rented unit without a lawful eviction process; permitted entry for repairs or emergencies must follow notice rules and cannot be used to evict you without an order from the tribunal.[2]
- What if I need urgent access to belongings like medication?
- If you are denied urgent access and someone’s health or safety is at risk, call emergency services first. Also document your requests and consider filing an urgent application with the tribunal for immediate relief.[1]
- How long does a tribunal decision take?
- Processing times vary; the tribunal may schedule a hearing or issue interim directions quickly in urgent cases, but final decisions depend on caseload and complexity.
How-To
- Gather evidence: collect photos, videos, written messages and a clear timeline of the lockout.
- Contact the landlord in writing to request immediate restoration of access and save that message.
- Complete and submit the tribunal application form with copies of your evidence and a clear statement of desired remedies.
- Attend the hearing (in person or virtual), present your organized evidence, and answer questions calmly.
- If the tribunal issues an order, follow instructions to enforce it if the landlord does not comply.
Key Takeaways
- Act immediately: document the event and note exact times.
- File with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using the official application form and evidence.
- Seek urgent help (police or tribunal interim relief) if safety or health is at risk.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Application form for the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (official)
