Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Checklist for New Brunswick

Navigating your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in New Brunswick ensures a secure, stress-free rental experience. Whether you are just moving in or managing ongoing tenancy concerns, understanding provincial rules helps you prevent disputes and strengthens your position as a renter. This all-in-one checklist is designed for New Brunswick tenants and supports you every step of the way.

Before You Move In: Starting Off Right

Your tenancy journey in New Brunswick typically begins with a written rental agreement, understanding deposits, and an initial walkthrough of your new home. Being well-informed helps avoid misunderstandings later on.

Signing the Rental Agreement

• Carefully read your written lease or tenancy agreement. Ensure it states the rent amount, due date, included utilities, length of tenancy, and any rules (such as pet or smoking policies).
• Keep a copy of your signed agreement for future reference.

Deposits and Upfront Fees

• In New Brunswick, landlords can request a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit). This deposit must not exceed one month's rent.
• The landlord is required to deposit your security deposit with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and provide you with a receipt.
• At the end of your tenancy, your deposit (plus any interest) must be returned unless there are lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
• For more details about deposits and how they work, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Initial Walkthrough and Inspections

• Do a thorough inspection of the rental property with your landlord before moving in. Document any pre-existing damages or issues and keep a dated record with photos.
• Report any urgent repair needs before bringing in your furniture.
• Inspections help protect your security deposit when you move out.

During Your Tenancy: Everyday Rights & Duties

As a renter, you have specific legal responsibilities, but you are also protected under the law. Maintaining respectful communication with your landlord and knowing your rights defends your interests.

Paying Rent On Time

• Rent must be paid in full by the date specified in your agreement (often the first of the month).
• If you encounter financial difficulties, communicate with your landlord as soon as possible to discuss options.

Maintaining the Property

• You are responsible for keeping your unit clean and not causing damage, beyond reasonable wear and tear.
• Promptly report maintenance issues, plumbing leaks, heating problems, or safety hazards to your landlord in writing.
• For ongoing issues like pests or safety risks, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for prevention and reporting guidance.

Privacy and Entry

• Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies).
• Entry can only be for legal reasons, such as repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to prospective tenants.

Dealing with Repairs

• Contact your landlord for any required repairs as soon as possible and keep copies of all communication.
• Landlords are responsible for maintaining the property in a safe and livable condition as per the Act.

Rent Increases & Changes

• Landlords can only increase rent after providing proper written notice (at least 3 months in advance).
• Notice must specify the new rent amount and the effective date.

For a full list of rights in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

When Problems Arise: Protecting Yourself

Inevitable disputes happen, but knowing how to handle them preserves your rights and helps you seek fair solutions.

• If maintenance issues or disagreements remain unresolved, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for assistance.
• For details about handling common rental challenges, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
• Form 6: Application by Tenant is used to request the Tribunal’s intervention if your landlord is not meeting their responsibilities. This form is available on the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website. Use it if you need repairs completed or to recover money owed to you.

Ending or Renewing the Tenancy

Before moving out—or renewing for another term—understand your notice obligations and final steps to ensure a smooth rental exit.

Giving Notice to Move Out

• In New Brunswick, you must give proper written notice to your landlord if you plan to move out. The notice period depends on whether your lease is fixed-term or month-to-month.
• Form 2: Notice of Termination by Tenant is the official document you use. Download it from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Final Inspection and Deposit Return

• Request a final inspection with your landlord. Take dated photos when moving out and keep a record of the unit's condition.
• Review your move-out checklist to reduce disputes over your deposit.

For more support on exiting your rental, Explore rental homes in your area to make your transition seamless.

FAQ: New Brunswick Tenants’ Rights & Responsibilities

1. What is the maximum security deposit allowed in New Brunswick?
   Landlords can charge a security deposit of up to one month’s rent, and it must be placed with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
2. Can my landlord enter my unit whenever they want?
   No. Except in emergencies, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice stating the reason for entry.
3. How do I dispute a rent increase I believe is unfair?
   You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal within 15 days of receiving the notice if you believe an increase is improper or not made with adequate notice.
4. What should I do if my landlord does not return my deposit?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and use Form 6 to file a claim for the return of your deposit.
5. Who handles rental disputes in New Brunswick?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal manages all rental disputes, including repairs, evictions, and deposit issues.

How To: Key Tenant Actions in New Brunswick

1. How do I file a complaint about repairs not being done?
   Fill out Form 6: Application by Tenant and submit it with supporting documents to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
2. How do I give proper move-out notice?
   Download and complete Form 2: Notice of Termination by Tenant. Deliver it in person or by registered mail, giving the required notice period.
3. How do I challenge an improper rent increase?
   If you receive a rent increase notice, review if it meets the required timeline and format, then apply to the Tribunal within 15 days using Form 6 if you wish to challenge it.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Know your obligations: Pay rent on time, keep your home clean, and respect lease terms.
• Protect your deposit: Always inspect before moving in/out and communicate promptly about repairs.
• Know your rights: Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for fair mediation if disputes arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Office of the Attorney General, New Brunswick
• Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) - Full Text
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB) – Tenant support services
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, S.N.B. 1975, c.R-10.2, Official Legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Government of New Brunswick: Official Tribunal Portal
3. Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick: Tenant Legal Resources

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