Renovations can be stressful for renters. In New Brunswick, tenants have rights about landlord entry, required notices, timelines, repairs and compensation when renovations affect habitability or privacy. This guide explains what to expect during renovations, how much notice landlords must give, when you can refuse entry, what repairs must be done, and when you might be eligible for rent reduction or relocation assistance. It also shows how to document problems, communicate with your landlord, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal when informal resolution fails. Use this plain-language information to protect your quiet enjoyment and health while renovation work is underway in your New Brunswick rental home.
What to expect when your landlord plans renovations
Landlords should provide clear notice and a reasonable schedule for work. If the renovation affects habitability (for example, loss of heat, water, or essential services), you may be entitled to urgent repairs and compensation or relocation options. If the work is cosmetic and does not interfere with basic living conditions, the landlord still must respect your privacy and give proper notice.
Notices, entry and timelines
New Brunswick tenancy rules set expectations for how and when a landlord can enter a rental unit and what counts as reasonable notice. Always check the official rules and follow timelines for filing complaints or applications to the tribunal.[1]
- Landlords must give written notice before non-emergency entry; this notice should state the reason and scheduled time.
- You may refuse unreasonable entry times or demand a new appointment if the notice is short or the timing is intrusive.
- If a deadline is set in a notice, document when the notice was delivered and any responses you provide.
- For urgent repairs tied to renovations (leaks, heating failures), landlords must act quickly to restore habitability.
Repairs, compensation and temporary relocation
If renovations make your unit unsafe or unlivable, you can ask for repairs, temporary accommodation or a rent reduction until conditions are fixed. Keep detailed records of any extra expenses you incur because of the work and save receipts for possible claims.
- Document out-of-pocket costs such as hotel stays or storage fees if you must temporarily relocate during renovations.
- Keep photos, videos and written logs of the condition and disruption to support compensation or tribunal applications.
- Report needed repairs in writing and give the landlord a reasonable opportunity to fix issues before filing a formal complaint.
How to handle disagreements and formal applications
Start by communicating in writing with your landlord: describe the problem, request specific remedies and propose timelines. If that does not resolve the issue, you can apply to the provincial tribunal that handles residential tenancy disputes.[1] You should also review the Residential Tenancies Act for New Brunswick to understand statutory timelines and remedies.[2]
Official forms and when to use them
Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (name may vary by office) – Use this form when you cannot resolve a dispute about repairs, compensation, or unlawful entry and you want a formal hearing. Example: you request a rent reduction and the landlord refuses to negotiate, so you file the application to start a tribunal case.[3]
Notice or Request forms – Many provinces provide standard notice templates for requesting repairs or documenting refusal of entry; use the official notice form when available so your request follows legal format. Example: you deliver the official repair request form by email and keep a copy for your records.[3]
FAQ
- Can my landlord renovate if I am on a fixed-term lease?
- Yes, but your landlord must still follow notice and entry rules and cannot use renovations as an unlawful reason to end your lease; you retain your right to quiet enjoyment.
- Do I have to move out during renovations?
- Only if the unit is unsafe or uninhabitable; if temporary relocation is required, discuss compensation and written terms with your landlord and document costs.
- How long do I have to apply to the tribunal?
- Time limits vary by issue and province; check the Residential Tenancies Act and contact the tribunal promptly to avoid missing filing deadlines.[2]
How-To
- Document the issue with photos, dates and a short written log describing how the renovation affects your living conditions.
- Send a clear written notice to your landlord requesting repair, compensation or clarification of the renovation schedule and keep a copy.
- If there is no satisfactory response, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or local tenant services for advice and next steps.[1]
- If needed, complete and submit the official application form to the tribunal and attach your documentation and receipts.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Tenants keep the right to habitability and privacy even during renovations.
- Always use written notices and keep dated records of communications and damage.
- Apply to the tribunal with clear documentation if informal resolution fails.
Help and Support / Resources
- New Brunswick Department of Social Development - Housing Services
- Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies information
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick)
- [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Government of New Brunswick)
- [3] Official tenancy forms and applications (Service New Brunswick)
For wider rental searches and to compare listings if you need to relocate during renovations, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings. For more on repairs and who is responsible, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and review your provincial rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
