Tenant Rights When Repairs Create Safety Hazards NB

As a tenant in New Brunswick, you have the right to a safe, habitable rental home. When landlord-ordered repairs create new safety hazards — such as exposed wiring, blocked exits, or loss of heat — acting quickly protects your health and legal rights. This guide explains practical steps tenants can take: documenting the hazard, notifying the landlord in writing, asking for urgent remediation, and when to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. It also outlines common official forms, timelines, and examples of what to do if the landlord cannot or will not fix the dangerous condition. Clear, simple language and checklists make it easier to follow your options and keep you safe while resolving repair disputes.

Immediate steps for tenants

When a repair creates a new safety hazard, follow clear steps to stay safe and preserve your rights.

• Contact the landlord or property manager immediately and describe the hazard, asking for urgent repair.
• Document the hazard with dated photos or video and keep a log of dates, communications, and any health symptoms.
• Give a written notice to the landlord explaining the hazard and requesting a timeline for safe repair.
• If the condition creates immediate danger, call emergency services; otherwise ask the landlord about temporary accommodations.

Repairs, forms, and official options

In New Brunswick the Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes about repairs and habitability issues^[1]. The provincial Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal standard for landlord obligations and tenant remedies^[2]. If filing is needed, tenants often use the Tribunal application form (example: Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Form RTT-1) to request a hearing and orders; for example, use it when a landlord fails to remove an electrical hazard after written notice.

For practical safety guidance see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and for urgent repair procedures consult Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. You can also search rentals and local listings while you consider alternative housing options: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings^[3].

FAQ

What should I do first if a repair makes my unit unsafe?

Leave any immediate danger zone, contact emergency services if needed, document the hazard, and notify your landlord in writing.

Can my landlord enter to fix the problem without notice?

Landlords must follow provincial entry rules; in emergencies they may enter but should still notify you and limit disruption.

When should I apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal?

Apply when the landlord does not fix a dangerous condition within a reasonable timeframe after written notice or refuses to act; include your documentation and timeline.

How-To

1. Document the hazard with photos, video, and a dated log of events and communications.
2. Give the landlord written notice describing the danger and requesting an urgent repair within a reasonable deadline.
3. Request immediate safety measures or temporary relocation if the unit is unsafe to occupy.
4. If the landlord does not act, file an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal asking for an order and hearing.
5. Prepare for the hearing by organizing evidence, witness statements, and a clear timeline.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
• Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
• Service New Brunswick: Renting and tenancy information

---

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
3. [3] Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings