Top 5 Must-Know Facts About Tenant Dispute Resolution in New Brunswick

If you’re renting in New Brunswick, knowing your options for resolving disputes with your landlord is essential. Rental disagreements—whether over repairs, deposits, notice, or rent—are common, but New Brunswick’s laws provide clear rules and processes to help you protect your rights.

This article covers five key things every tenant needs to know about the province’s dispute resolution system, including when and how to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, what forms to use, legal timelines, and your best steps for getting issues resolved.

1. Understand Who Handles Disputes: The New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal

In New Brunswick, all landlord–tenant disputes are managed by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT). This government body is responsible for enforcing the Residential Tenancies Act^[1], which sets out your rights as a tenant when disagreements arise about leases, repairs, deposits, and more.

• The RTT helps resolve problems such as unpaid rent, repairs that aren’t done, questions about deposits, and ending leases.
• You can submit complaints or applications directly online, by mail, or at a Service New Brunswick Centre.
• If you want to know more about your legal rights and duties, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Quick tip: The Tribunal aims to handle cases quickly—many common issues are resolved without a formal hearing.

2. Common Dispute Types and How They’re Resolved

Many disputes can be handled informally. If you have an issue with your landlord, start by discussing it openly and respectfully. However, formal resolution may be needed for:

• Rent increases that seem too high or sudden
• Lack of repairs or maintenance
• Disagreements over the return of your deposit
• Eviction notices

If informal talks don’t resolve the issue, you can file a formal “Application for Assistance” (Form 3). Here’s how:

• Form Name: Application for Assistance (Form 3)
• When to use: Whenever you have an unresolved dispute about rent, repairs, deposits, or lease terms.
• Example: If your landlord won’t fix a leaking roof, complete Form 3 and the Tribunal can order repairs.
• Download Form 3 from the Government of New Brunswick

For more about deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Be Aware of Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have responsibilities under New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act. Some basics:

• Landlords must keep the rental in good repair.
• Tenants must pay rent on time and keep the unit reasonably clean.
• Security deposits cannot be more than one month’s rent and must be returned unless there are damages.

For a detailed look at rights after you move in, check out What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

4. Know the Essential Deadlines and Forms

Missing a deadline can put your tenancy or rights at risk. Key timelines include:

• 7 days: Time to object to a Notice of Termination or rent increase
• 15 days: Time for landlord to return your security deposit after move-out

Important Forms:

• Notice of Termination (Form 2): Used if you or your landlord wants to end the tenancy for specific legal reasons. You may challenge this by responding promptly. Access Form 2 on the official NB government site
• Application for Assistance (Form 3): Used for dispute resolution with the Tribunal (see above). Be sure to provide detailed information and any supporting documents.

Send completed forms to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, either online, by mail, or in person at a Service New Brunswick location.

5. What to Expect During Dispute Resolution

Once you file your application:

• The Tribunal will notify the other party (landlord or tenant) and may try to help you settle the dispute amicably.
• If necessary, a hearing may be scheduled either in person, by phone, or virtually.
• You’ll have a chance to present evidence, such as emails, texts, or photos.

A Tribunal officer will review all information and issue a binding written decision. If you disagree, you can request a review within a limited time frame—normally within 7 days of the decision. See the Tribunal’s dispute resolution process for details.

If you’re looking for a new place after a dispute or just want more options, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

FAQ: Dispute Resolution and Tenant Rights in New Brunswick

1. Who do I contact if I have a rental dispute with my landlord?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles rental disputes in New Brunswick. You can contact them by phone, email, or in person at Service NB offices.
2. How long do I have to challenge a rent increase in New Brunswick?
   You have 7 days after receiving a written rent increase notice to file an objection with the Tribunal.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t return my security deposit?
   You can submit an Application for Assistance (Form 3) to the Tribunal, which will investigate and may order your landlord to return the deposit.
4. Can I be evicted without cause?
   New Brunswick law requires specific legal reasons for eviction, such as serious lease violations. All evictions must follow the proper notice and Tribunal processes.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in New Brunswick?
   You can find comprehensive information at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

How To: Filing a Dispute with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

1. How do I apply to resolve a dispute with my landlord?
   Complete the Application for Assistance (Form 3), describe your issue, attach any evidence (photos, emails), and submit it to the Tribunal.
2. How do I object to an eviction notice?
   After receiving a Notice of Termination, file your objection with the Tribunal within 7 days, explaining why you dispute the eviction.
3. How do I get my security deposit back?
   If your landlord does not return it within 15 days of moving out, file an Application for Assistance (Form 3) with the Tribunal.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Dispute resolution in New Brunswick is managed by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
• Act quickly when you receive eviction or rent increase notices—deadlines are short.
• Your rights and responsibilities are clearly outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT): Official government info, forms, and contact
• Download tenant forms (including Application for Assistance and Notice of Termination)
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (tenant rights guides and support)
• General overview: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal
3. Service New Brunswick Tenancy Forms

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