Tenant Rights When a Building Is Condemned in NB

Facing a condemned building is stressful for any renter. If you live in New Brunswick and believe your rental has been declared unsafe or uninhabitable by municipal authorities, you have specific tenant rights and steps you can take. This guide explains what a condemnation order means, who issues it, the notice and timeline landlords must follow, what relocation or compensation options may exist, and how to keep records and file complaints with the proper tribunal. It also covers safety steps to protect yourself and your household, including emergency repairs and when to seek legal advice or social services. Knowing these rights helps tenants act quickly and confidently.

When a building is condemned in New Brunswick

A condemnation means an official order that some or all of a rental property is unsafe to occupy. Orders are usually issued by municipal building or public health officials; disputes about rights or compensation are handled through the provincial tribunal or the applicable administrative process ^[1]. The provincial tenancy law defines landlord and tenant duties for habitability and evacuation; these rules can affect notice periods and whether you are eligible for relocation help ^[2].

What tenants can expect after a condemnation notice

• Within the first hours or days you may receive an evacuation notice or a written condemnation order from municipal officials.
• Entry or inspection by officials may be required to confirm hazards and to post official signage restricting access.
• Landlords must address immediate repairs only when it is safe and legally required; unsafe structures may be taken out of service until fixed.
• Keep dated photos, videos, and records of communications with your landlord and officials as evidence for any tribunal application or insurance claim.

If you get a notice, ask the landlord for the written order or contact the issuing municipality to confirm the reason and scope of the condemnation. If the landlord claims repairs are planned, get the timeline and details in writing so you can compare that to the official order and any statutory timelines.

Official forms and filing a complaint

To raise a dispute or seek remedy for relocation or compensation, tenants usually file an application with the provincial residential tenancies authority or tribunal. Common documents you may use include an application to the tribunal and copies of any evacuation or condemnation orders. Official forms and guidance are available from the provincial tribunal and government pages ^[3].

Example: if the municipality posts a condemnation notice that forces you to leave and the landlord offers no alternative housing, you could file the tribunal application naming the landlord, attaching the condemnation order, dated photos, and any receipts for emergency accommodation or expenses you paid.

Practical steps tenants should take now

1. Collect and save documentation: photos, the posted order, text messages, emails and receipts for any relocation costs.
2. Contact the landlord immediately to request written confirmation of the order and planned actions; ask about timelines and temporary housing options.
3. File any required tribunal application or complaint promptly and follow the filing instructions on the official tribunal site ^[1].
4. Arrange safe temporary housing and keep receipts to support any compensation claim or application for reimbursement.

Tenant protections and financial issues

Security deposits, rent payments, and arrears can be affected when you cannot safely occupy a unit. Document dates you cannot use the unit and speak with the landlord about rent reductions, refunds, or agreement termination options. If the landlord keeps your deposit or attempts unlawful deductions, the tribunal can decide whether deductions were proper.

To find alternative rental options quickly, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme as you plan temporary or permanent moves.

FAQ

What does it mean when a building is condemned?

The property or part of it has been declared unsafe to occupy by an authorized municipal or provincial official, and access may be restricted until hazards are fixed.

Can my landlord evict me immediately after a condemnation?

A condemnation is not the same as a landlord eviction for cause; you must follow official notices and tribunal processes, and in some situations you may be able to end the tenancy or seek compensation depending on timelines and local rules.

Am I entitled to relocation assistance or compensation?

Relocation help or compensation depends on the facts, the landlord's responsibility for the hazard, and provincial rules; document expenses and file a tribunal application to request reimbursement.

How-To

1. Confirm the condemnation order and get an official copy from the municipality or the posting on-site.
2. Document the unit condition with dated photos, videos, and written notes, and keep receipts for any emergency costs.
3. Contact the landlord to request written details of repairs, timelines, and any offers for temporary housing.
4. File an application with the residential tenancies tribunal if you need rent adjustments, compensation, or to dispute the landlord's actions ^[1].
5. Arrange safe temporary accommodation and seek local supports if needed while your case is resolved.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal, New Brunswick
• Service New Brunswick: Residential Tenancies information
• New Brunswick municipal building and public health contacts

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Government of New Brunswick
2. [2] New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act
3. [3] Service New Brunswick: Forms and guidance for residential tenancies