Tenant Rights When Landlord Uses Surveillance Cameras in NB

What New Brunswick law says

In New Brunswick, tenants have privacy rights balanced against a landlord's interest in building safety. The Residential Tenancies Act and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal set rules about what monitoring is allowed and how disputes are handled^[1][2]. If a landlord installs cameras, the key questions are where cameras are placed, whether they record inside a private rental unit, and whether the landlord gave notice or a policy explaining use.

When cameras are allowed and when they are not

Landlords may reasonably place cameras in exterior spaces, lobbies, hallways or parking lots for safety, but cameras aimed at doors, windows or inside a tenant's unit often violate privacy expectations. If cameras record audio or continuously record inside a unit, that is more likely to be considered intrusive. Tenants should review their lease and any building policy and ask for clarification in writing.

• If a camera records inside your unit or aims at a window, raise the issue promptly in writing and ask for the footage policy.
• Keep dated records, photos, or video that show where a camera is placed and timestamps for any incidents you believe infringe your privacy.
• If a landlord cites security as the reason, request a written camera policy stating purpose, who views footage, retention period and access rules.

What tenants can do

If you believe monitoring is unlawful or invasive, follow clear steps: document the situation, communicate your concerns in writing, request changes, and use official complaint processes when needed. If you recently signed a lease, review obligations and protections in your agreement and compare them to provincial rules; the internal resource "Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained" can help clarify typical duties and expectations.

• Document: take photos showing camera placement, note dates/times and keep copies of any messages or notices.
• Contact your landlord: ask for a written policy and explain your privacy concerns calmly and clearly.
• File a complaint: if the issue is not resolved, you can file an application with the tribunal or the appropriate provincial body for a hearing.
• If resolution isn’t possible, consider alternatives like seeking transfer within the building or finding other rentals; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare options.

Evidence and privacy tips

Good documentation increases your chance of a successful complaint. Keep copies of correspondence, screenshots, photos of camera angles, and a short log of any interactions that relate to surveillance. Always send written requests (email or letter) asking for policies or to request repositioning of cameras, and keep proof of delivery.

FAQ

Can my landlord install cameras inside the building?

Yes, in common areas for security, but cameras that record inside a tenant's private unit or through windows are usually not acceptable without consent.

Do I have to let a landlord see footage that includes me?

No. Landlords should have a clear policy explaining who can view footage and under what circumstances; you can request that information in writing.

How do I challenge surveillance I think is illegal?

Start by documenting and asking the landlord to change the placement or policy; if unresolved, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the relevant New Brunswick authority for review^[1].

How-To

1. Document the issue: photograph camera locations, note dates/times and save any notices or messages you receive.
2. Contact your landlord in writing: request a written camera policy, ask for repositioning, and keep a copy of your communication.
3. Check the law and tribunal guidance: review provincial rules and the Residential Tenancies Act to understand permitted monitoring^[2].
4. File an application: if the landlord does not resolve the problem, file with the tribunal, attaching your evidence and a clear request for remedy.
5. Consider next steps: seek mediation, legal advice, or alternative housing if privacy cannot be restored; use trusted listing sites to explore options.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Government of New Brunswick
• Residential Tenancies Act — New Brunswick legislation
• Government of New Brunswick housing and tenant information

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Government of New Brunswick
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act — New Brunswick legislation
3. [3] Government of New Brunswick housing and tenant information