Who is responsible for repairs?
In New Brunswick, landlords are generally responsible for ensuring a rental unit is habitable and meets safety standards. Tenants are usually expected to take care of basic cleaning and perform minor upkeep so the property is not damaged by neglect. For routine repairs and clear examples of shared responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
In most regions, tenants are entitled to basic habitability standards.
Common tenant duties
- Keep the unit reasonably clean and free of garbage or hazards that could cause damage.
- Replace light bulbs and batteries in smoke or carbon monoxide detectors if the lease assigns that task to the tenant.
- Unclog minor blockages you caused (for example, a stopped sink from hair) unless the lease or landlord specifies otherwise.
- Take reasonable steps to prevent mold and water damage by ventilating bathrooms and reporting leaks promptly.
- Notify the landlord in writing about any damage, defects, or maintenance needs as soon as you discover them.
Keep all rent receipts organized and stored safely.
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When to contact your landlord or file a dispute
Contact your landlord immediately for any urgent or safety-related repair (no heat, major plumbing leaks, electrical hazards). For emergencies and landlord inaction, review Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal [1] or referencing the Residential Tenancies Act [2] for formal remedies.
Respond to legal notices within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
How to request repairs
- Document the issue with dated photos or video and note when you first noticed the problem.
- Send a written notice to your landlord describing the problem, the date, and your contact information; keep a copy for your records.
- Keep records of any receipts or costs if you pay for minor repairs the landlord agreed to reimburse.
- If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, follow the tribunal application process or official complaint steps for New Brunswick.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
FAQ
- Who pays for a broken furnace in winter?
- The landlord must ensure heating systems work and are safe; if the furnace fails, notify the landlord immediately and request urgent repair or replacement.
- Can I fix something myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Do not deduct repair costs from rent unless you have clear written permission from the landlord or an order from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal permitting that remedy.
- How long should I wait for a non-emergency repair?
- A reasonable time depends on the type of repair; routine issues may take days to weeks, but landlords should act promptly on problems affecting habitability.
How-To
- Document the damage with dated photos and notes describing the problem.
- Notify your landlord in writing, stating the issue and asking for a repair within a reasonable time.
- Keep copies of all communication, invoices, and receipts related to the repair.
- Allow reasonable access for landlords or contractors to inspect and fix the problem after receiving proper notice.
- If the landlord fails to act, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick)
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- Service New Brunswick — tenant information and forms
