What is the minimum notice a landlord must give before a showing in New Brunswick?

Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit for a showing, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.

Can I refuse entry if my landlord wants to show my unit?

You cannot unreasonably refuse entry if your landlord gives proper written notice. However, if the entry times are unreasonable or excessive, you can negotiate or raise concerns with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?

Document the incident, communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord, and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the issue continues.

Tenant Rights for Unit Showings in New Brunswick

Privacy & Entry by Landlord New Brunswick published June 14, 2025

If you're renting in New Brunswick and your landlord wants to show your unit to prospective tenants or buyers, it's essential to know your rights and what the law requires. Protecting your privacy while maintaining a positive rental experience can feel challenging, but New Brunswick's tenancy laws offer clear guidelines to help both tenants and landlords navigate showings fairly.

Understanding Your Right to Privacy

Your right to privacy is protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)^[1]. Landlords can enter your unit only for specific reasons—and only with proper notice. One of these reasons is to show the unit to potential new tenants or buyers, but certain rules must always be followed.

When Can a Landlord Show Your Rental Unit?

Landlords may show your unit when:

Your tenancy is ending soon, and they are seeking a new tenant.
The property is for sale and buyers are interested in viewing the space.

However, showings must respect your right to reasonable enjoyment and privacy.

Notice Requirements

Written Notice: Landlords must give you at least 24 hours' written notice before entering for a showing.
The notice must state the date, time (within reasonable hours), and purpose of entry.
Showings should occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. unless you agree otherwise.

Does the Tenant Need to Be Present?

You do not have to be present during the showing, but you have the right to choose to be. It's good practice to communicate with your landlord if you prefer to be there. While you cannot unreasonably deny entry for showings with proper notice, you can address concerns if the proposed times are especially inconvenient or disruptive.

Tip: Keep a written record of all notices you receive and any communication with your landlord about showings. This helps resolve misunderstandings quickly.

What Tenants Should Expect During Unit Showings

Your landlord is responsible for ensuring showings are done respectfully. Here's what you can expect:

Showings are typically brief and should cause minimal disruption.
Only reasonable numbers of people should be present.
Landlords must respect your personal property and space during the showing.

If you have safety or health concerns due to frequent entry, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more insights.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

Notice of Entry (no official form number): Landlords in New Brunswick typically use a written letter or email to provide the required 24-hour notice. Tenants should request details in writing if oral notice is given.
Example: If you receive a text at 10 a.m. that says your landlord will show the unit at noon, this does not meet the legal requirement. You can remind your landlord of the need for 24-hour written notice, referencing the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick).^[1]
Tenant Application for Assistance (RTB Form 1.1): If your landlord is not following the correct legal process or is entering without notice, you may file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Find the application at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website.^[2]

Your Rights if the Law is Not Followed

If a landlord enters without proper notice, refuses to respect your privacy, or schedules excessive showings, you have options:

First, talk directly to your landlord to try to resolve the issue calmly.
If unresolved, document all incidents, keep copies of correspondence, and submit a complaint to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
You may be entitled to compensation if the landlord repeatedly violates your rights.

Learn more about resolving rental issues in Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Where to Get More Information

Both landlords and tenants have specific rights and responsibilities in New Brunswick. For a detailed overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

For those seeking a new place to live, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for convenient, up-to-date listings from coast to coast.

What is the minimum notice a landlord must give before a showing in New Brunswick?
Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit for a showing, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.
Can I refuse entry if my landlord wants to show my unit?
You cannot unreasonably refuse entry if your landlord gives proper written notice. However, if the entry times are unreasonable or excessive, you can negotiate or raise concerns with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
Document the incident, communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord, and file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the issue continues.
Do I need to clean or stage my unit before a showing?
While you are not legally required to stage your unit, it should remain reasonably clean and free of major obstructions. The landlord cannot require you to prepare the unit beyond standard upkeep.
Where can I find help if I have concerns about unit showings?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or a local tenant support service for guidance if you feel your rights are not being respected.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Your landlord can only show your unit with at least 24 hours' written notice and during reasonable hours.
Tenants have the right to privacy, and these rules are designed to balance landlord access and tenant comfort.
If your rights are not respected, communicate concerns in writing and, if needed, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick): Official website, complaint forms, and contact
Government of New Brunswick – Renting in New Brunswick: Overview and guides for tenants/landlords
Local Tenant Support: Many communities have legal aid offices or tenants' rights advocacy groups who can help if you need further assistance.

Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick), official government source
Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick), complaints and assistance