Being a renter in New Brunswick means you have clear rights when it comes to maintenance and emergency repairs. This guide explains what landlords are required to fix, how to report problems, timelines for repairs, and what remedies tenants can pursue if repairs are delayed. It separates routine maintenance from urgent safety issues — for example, lack of heat, major plumbing leaks, electrical hazards, or carbon monoxide concerns — and shows practical steps to document problems and communicate effectively with your landlord or property manager. You will also find where to get official forms, how and when to apply to the provincial tenancy office, and sample wording for written requests so you can protect your health, safety, and your rental deposit.
What landlords must fix and tenant responsibilities
Under New Brunswick rules, landlords must maintain the rental unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation. That typically includes making sure heating, plumbing, electrical systems, and locks work, and addressing hazards like mould or structural problems. Tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and report damage or needed repairs promptly.
Routine maintenance vs emergency repairs
Routine maintenance covers things that affect comfort or long-term condition, such as dripping taps or a broken fridge. Emergency repairs affect health or safety and need immediate attention — for example, loss of heat in winter, major flooding, serious electrical faults, or gas leaks. When a situation threatens safety or property, act quickly and follow the steps below.
How to report a repair and keep good records
- Call your landlord or property manager immediately to report the issue, and note the time and name of the person you spoke with.
- Follow up in writing (email or text) describing the problem, the date you first noticed it, and any health or safety risks; attach photos or video if possible.
- Include a reasonable deadline in your written request, for example "Please arrange repairs within 5 business days," and keep copies of all messages.
Emergency repairs: what to do now
If there is an immediate risk to health or safety, call emergency services first (911). Then notify your landlord right away and confirm the report in writing as soon as you can. If the landlord cannot or will not arrange an urgent repair promptly, you may have the right to hire a qualified contractor to make the repair and seek reimbursement, or to apply directly to the tenancy office for an order. Always keep receipts and photos.
Examples and practical steps
- If a pipe bursts and floods your unit, stop the water if safe, call 911 if needed, notify the landlord immediately, take photos, and request urgent repair in writing.
- For loss of heat in winter, advise the landlord and ask for immediate action; if no response, contact the provincial tenancy office for guidance and possible fast-track remedies.
- When a landlord denies entry or refuses to make a repair, ask for the reason in writing and keep that communication as evidence.
When to contact the tenancy office or tribunal
If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, or if repairs are inadequate, you can apply to the provincial tenancy office to resolve the dispute. The provincial tenancy body handles complaints about repairs, habitability, illegal eviction, and related issues. For New Brunswick tenancy information and how to file applications, see the Service New Brunswick resources.[1] For the governing statute, consult the Residential Tenancies Act.[2]
Forms you may need and when to use them
Common official steps often include a written repair request to the landlord and, if unresolved, an application to the provincial tenancy office for dispute resolution. Official forms and instructions are available from the provincial tenancy site and the tribunal pages; read the form description before filing and attach your documentation and receipts.[3]
- Application for dispute resolution (official provincial tenancy application): use this to start a formal complaint when the landlord refuses or delays necessary repairs.
- Written request / notice to landlord (no formal number): a clear dated message requesting repair and a reasonable deadline helps establish the timeline and shows you acted responsibly.
Tenant remedies and safe alternatives
Remedies can include orders for the landlord to complete repairs, compensation for damage or loss, and in severe cases rent abatement. If a unit becomes unsafe, consider temporary relocation and discuss whether the landlord must cover reasonable accommodation or repair-related costs. If you need to find alternative housing while repairs are arranged, consider listing and search resources such as Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for available options.
FAQ
- How quickly must a landlord fix an emergency issue?
- Landlords must address emergency repairs immediately or within a very short time frame that the tribunal considers reasonable, depending on the severity; always call emergency services first if there is imminent danger.
- Can I withhold rent until repairs are done?
- Withholding rent is risky and rarely recommended without tribunal approval; instead, document requests and apply for dispute resolution so a tribunal can order remedies or rent adjustments if appropriate.
- What evidence helps my case at the tenancy office?
- Photos, dated messages to the landlord, repair receipts, witness statements, and any reports from professionals (plumbers, electricians) are the most helpful evidence.
How-To
- Report the problem by phone to the landlord or manager, note the time and person spoken to, and ask for an expected repair timeframe.
- Send a clear written request (email or text) with date, description, photos, and a reasonable deadline and keep copies.
- If the issue is an emergency and the landlord does not act, arrange safe temporary measures, keep receipts, and hire a licensed contractor only if necessary and lawful.
- If repairs are not completed, file an application with the provincial tenancy office with your documentation and request a hearing or order.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies
- [2] Government of New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies Act
- [3] Residential Tenancies Tribunal and forms
