Tenant Rights in Employer-Provided Housing in New Brunswick

Living in employer-provided housing in New Brunswick comes with unique challenges and protections. Whether you work in agriculture, hospitality, or another sector where your boss is also your landlord, knowing your tenant rights is crucial. This guide explains how New Brunswick's tenancy laws protect you, what to expect if your job ends, and how to resolve disputes.

What Is Employer-Provided Housing?

Employer-provided housing is accommodation offered as part of your work. Sometimes called staff housing, bunkhouses, or tied accommodation, this setup means your employer is also your landlord. The rules can be different compared to standard rentals, but you still have rights under New Brunswick's tenancy laws.

Your Legal Protections as a Tenant

In New Brunswick, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal oversees all rental housing matters—including employer-provided housing. Your tenancy rights are guided by the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)¹.

• All standard tenant rights apply—unless your contract specifically and lawfully states otherwise.
• If your job ends, your right to remain in the housing may also end, but there are rules around notice and procedures.

Important Documents and Forms

• Notice of Termination of Tenancy (Form 3): Used by either the employer/landlord or tenant to end the tenancy. For example, if your employment is over, your employer must provide this form to legally end the tenancy. Download from the official NB site.
• Application for Assistance (Form 10): Used when you have a dispute or need the Tribunal's help (e.g., if you believe your rights have been violated or the correct notice wasn't given). Official download here.

Always check your employment contract and rental agreement for additional terms, but remember – legislative protections can't be signed away.

How Notice Works When Employment Ends

If your job ends, your employer or you may need to give notice to end the tenancy. Generally, employer-provided leases are considered periodic or fixed-term:

• Periodic (month-to-month): At least one month's written notice is required before the end of the rental period.
• Fixed-term: The rental ends when the job ends if specifically stated in the agreement; otherwise, standard notice rules apply.

If there is uncertainty, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for clarification.

Your Rights and Responsibilities Inside Employer Housing

No matter the rental type, you have the right to a safe and habitable home. This includes reasonable privacy, basic repairs, and utilities as agreed. For more about your obligations and those of your employer/landlord, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

• Report unsafe conditions or major repair needs in writing as soon as you notice them.
• Your employer cannot enter your rental space without proper notice except in emergencies.

For general health and safety information, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What About Rental Deposits?

If you paid a security deposit, it should be handled according to New Brunswick law—regardless of who your landlord is. Be sure you understand Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know in employer-provided rentals as well.

Common Issues in Employer Housing—and What to Do

• Sudden eviction: If you are told to leave on short notice, ask for the required written notice and forms. Request help from the Tribunal if improper procedure is used.
• Unresolved repairs: Put all repair requests in writing. If needs are ignored, apply to the Tribunal (Form 10) for help.
• Deposit not returned: Your employer must return your deposit unless there is documented damage or unpaid rent. Disputes can also be handled by the Tribunal.

Need to find a new place quickly? Explore Affordable homes for rent in Canada using Houseme's search tools.

Provincial Fact Sheet

Want more details? See your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for a broader overview of provincial laws and rules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Employer-Provided Housing in New Brunswick

1. Do I have renter’s rights if my landlord is also my boss?
   Yes. The Residential Tenancies Act protects you even if your housing is linked to your job. Most general tenant rights and procedures apply.
2. How much notice must I get if my employment and housing end?
   Usually, at least one rental period's written notice (e.g., one month). Both your rental agreement and employment contract may affect this, but minimum notice is required unless a court or Tribunal decides otherwise.
3. What can I do if my employer tries to evict me without notice?
   Do not move out right away. Ask for proper written notice, and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or file Form 10 for help.
4. Who do I contact about rental disputes in employer housing?
   For housing-related problems (deposit, repairs, eviction), the Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the official authority.
5. If I have to move out quickly, how can I find my next rental?
   You can find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for fast, up-to-date listings nationwide.

Key Takeaways for Tenants in Employer-Provided Housing

• You are protected by New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act, regardless of who your landlord is.
• If you lose your job, you still have a right to proper notice before you must leave housing.
• If you face issues, use the proper forms and contact the Tribunal promptly.

Understand your basic rights, keep copies of all paperwork, and don’t hesitate to seek help if your housing stability is threatened.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick)
  Official body for disputes, forms, and assistance.
• Forms and general guidance: Province of New Brunswick Rental Guidelines
• Tenant/fair housing advocacy: Contact local legal aid offices for free or low-cost guidance on your rights.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick): Official legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Government of New Brunswick

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