Tenant Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in New Brunswick

Newcomers and refugees arriving in New Brunswick often face the challenge of securing safe, affordable housing in an unfamiliar legal environment. Understanding your tenancy rights is essential for protecting yourself, ensuring fair treatment, and settling comfortably. This guide explains tenancy laws, official forms, and tenant resources to help you succeed as a renter in New Brunswick.

Overview: Renting in New Brunswick for Newcomers and Refugees

Renting a home in New Brunswick is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. This law protects the rights of all tenants—regardless of immigration status, language, or background. Both permanent residents and refugees enjoy housing protection under Canadian and provincial law.

Who Handles Tenancy Matters in New Brunswick?

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick) oversees rental disputes, applications, and complaints throughout New Brunswick.

Your Key Rights as a Tenant

• Right to safe and habitable housing: Landlords must provide healthy, safe homes compliant with local standards.
• Non-discrimination: It is illegal to refuse to rent to you based on race, religion, nationality, or immigration status.
• Protection against sudden eviction; landlords must provide proper notice.
• Right to receive receipts and written communication in clear, understandable language.
• The right to privacy—your landlord generally requires 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit (except for emergencies).

Newcomers and refugees also benefit from the same provincial rules as Canadian-born tenants. For a comprehensive list, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Common Rental Processes and Official Forms

Familiarity with standard tenancy forms can help prevent misunderstandings and protect your rights. Here are some essential documents and how they apply to newcomers and refugees:

• Application to Rent: Before renting, you may be asked to fill out an application. Be prepared to provide references or identification (such as a permanent resident card, refugee claim, or visa documents). Landlords cannot unfairly treat you based on your status.
• Form 1 – Application to Residential Tenancy Tribunal: Used if you need to resolve a disagreement with your landlord or apply for an order (e.g., in cases of withheld deposit or illegal entry).
  Example: If your landlord refuses to fix heating, you can submit this form.
  Official link: Form 1 – Application to Residential Tenancy Tribunal (PDF)
• Form 6 – Notice to Terminate (Tenant's Notice): Use this when you wish to end your tenancy. Be sure to give the required notice period, which is usually one month for monthly leases.
  Official link: Form 6 – Tenant's Notice to Terminate (PDF)
• Form 15 – Security Deposit Return Request: After moving out, use this to request your deposit back if your landlord has not returned it within seven days.
  Official link: Form 15 – Request for Return of Security Deposit (PDF)

All forms must be submitted to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. If you need help, Service New Brunswick can offer assistance in multiple languages.

Deposits, Rent, and Inspections: What to Know

New tenants, including refugees and newcomers, often wonder about deposits and rental payments. In New Brunswick, landlords can request a security deposit, but it cannot be more than one month’s rent. Make sure you receive a receipt and understand the conditions for returning the deposit.

Before moving in, it's advisable to conduct a walkthrough of the rental with your landlord—a process called the initial inspection. This records the unit’s condition and helps avoid disputes later. Learn more by visiting Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

You must always pay your rent on time and keep documentation of payments. If you’re having difficulty with payment, communicate with your landlord early or seek support.

Health, Safety, and Support for New Tenants

Landlords in New Brunswick must meet provincial health and safety rules. You have a right to a home that is safe, clean, and properly maintained. If you experience pests, mold, unsafe wiring, or major repairs are being ignored, report these to your landlord in writing and keep records.

For a detailed look at these obligations, check out Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Where Can Newcomers Find Rentals in New Brunswick?

Searching for a home is easier than ever with new technology. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings—it's a fast and reliable way to browse safe rental options in New Brunswick and across Canada.

Additional Protections and Resources for Vulnerable Tenants

The New Brunswick Human Rights Act protects all renters—including newcomers and refugees—from discrimination. If you believe a landlord has treated you unfairly due to your origin or immigration status, contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission for support.

1. Are security deposits refundable in New Brunswick?
   If you have paid a security deposit, it must be returned with interest within seven days after your tenancy ends, unless there are valid damages or unpaid rent. If not, submit Form 15 to request the deposit from your landlord.
2. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a newcomer or refugee?
   No. Discrimination based on nationality, race, or immigration status is illegal. If you face this issue, contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission or a legal clinic for help.
3. What do I do if my landlord doesn't make repairs?
   Write to your landlord first. If repairs are not made, you can submit a complaint with Form 1 to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
4. Do I have to sign a written lease?
   It is not always required, but having a written lease protects both parties. Make sure you read and understand the agreement before signing.
5. Is help available if I don’t speak English or French well?
   Yes. Many settlement agencies offer language assistance, and Service New Brunswick provides information in various languages. Bring a trusted friend or translator when meeting landlords or officials if needed.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Newcomer and Refugee Tenants

• New Brunswick’s laws protect all tenants, regardless of immigration status or language.
• Official forms and help are available from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and local support agencies.
• Understanding deposit, rent, and health requirements helps you avoid common issues and settle confidently as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick): Information and forms for tenants and landlords; call 1-888-762-8600 for assistance.
• New Brunswick Human Rights Commission: Help with discrimination complaints; call 1-888-471-2233.
• Settlement Agencies: Organizations like the Multicultural Association of Fredericton and YMCA Newcomer Services offer translation, legal help, and housing search assistance.
• Legal Aid New Brunswick: Provides legal advice regardless of immigration status. Contact Legal Aid New Brunswick.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
2. Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies Tribunal
3. New Brunswick Human Rights Commission

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy