Top 50 Questions About Affordable Housing & Subsidies in New Brunswick

Affordable Housing & Subsidies New Brunswick published June 26, 2025 Flag of New Brunswick
What is affordable housing in New Brunswick?
Affordable housing is government-supported housing that costs less than market rent, usually for low- to moderate-income households.
Who manages affordable housing programs in New Brunswick?
Housing New Brunswick, a division of the Department of Social Development, manages affordable housing and subsidies. Learn more.
How do I apply for affordable housing in New Brunswick?
Submit a Social Development Housing Application Form to your local office. Download the form (PDF).
Who is eligible for affordable housing?
Eligibility depends on your income, family size, and current housing situation. Check requirements with Housing New Brunswick.
What documents do I need to apply for housing subsidies?
You usually need proof of income, IDs for all household members, and current address.
How long is the waitlist for affordable housing?
Wait times vary by area and unit size; some areas have shorter or longer waitlists.
What is the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) in New Brunswick?
RAP helps eligible tenants afford rent in private market apartments by subsidizing rent payments. Learn more here.
How can I apply for rental subsidies (like RAP)?
Complete the Application for Housing form and indicate your interest in subsidies.
Is there an income limit for housing subsidies?
Yes. Limits depend on your family size and location. Check with Housing New Brunswick for current thresholds.
Do I have to be a Canadian citizen to qualify?
Permanent residents and some newcomers may qualify; check the specific criteria with Social Development.
How much rent will I pay in subsidized housing?
Usually 30% of your gross household income, or according to the subsidy agreement.
Can I apply for a subsidy if I already rent a private apartment?
Yes, some subsidies are available for people already renting in the private market, including RAP.
What if my income changes after I get a subsidy?
Report income changes to Housing New Brunswick right away. Your rent contribution may be adjusted.
Can my landlord refuse to accept my subsidy?
Landlords can choose not to participate in some subsidy programs, but discrimination is not allowed.
Are there subsidies for seniors or people with disabilities?
Yes, specific programs are available for seniors and people with disabilities. Contact Housing New Brunswick.
What types of housing are available through subsidies?
Options include public housing, co-ops, non-profits, and private market rentals.
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes. Visit the Tribunal.
Can I be evicted while on a subsidy?
Yes, you can be evicted but only for legal reasons according to the Residential Tenancies Act.
What law protects tenants in subsidized housing?
The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick protects all residential tenants. Read the Act.
Can I request a rent calculation review?
Yes, contact Housing New Brunswick and provide updated financial information.
What happens if I miss rent in subsidized housing?
You must pay on time. Repeated missed payments can lead to eviction, even in subsidized housing.
How do I contact Housing New Brunswick?
Call 1-833-733-7835 or visit your local office.
How often do I need to renew my subsidy?
Usually once a year. Submit updated documents as requested by Housing New Brunswick.
Can I request a transfer to another subsidized unit?
Yes. Contact your local housing office to request a transfer; there may be a waitlist.
Does my subsidy cover utilities?
Some subsidies include utilities, others do not. Check your agreement for details.
What official forms do I need for affordable housing applications?
You need the "Application for Housing" form. Get the form.
What if my subsidy application is denied?
You can ask for a review or appeal the decision by contacting Housing New Brunswick.
Can I appeal subsidy decisions?
Yes, contact your local Social Development office for appeal instructions.
Is there emergency housing assistance?
Yes. Emergency help is available for those at risk of homelessness. Call Housing New Brunswick immediately.
What happens if my family size changes?
Report changes as soon as possible. Your eligibility and unit size may be reassessed.
Can students apply for subsidies?
Some students may qualify if they meet income and residency criteria.
Can I choose the location of my subsidized home?
You may indicate preferences, but supply and waitlist length affect availability.
What maintenance is my landlord responsible for in subsidized housing?
Landlords must keep homes safe and in good repair, as in private rentals.
Can I have guests or roommates in subsidized housing?
Yes, but you must report long-term changes in occupancy to Housing New Brunswick.
Can subsidies be combined with other assistance?
Some assistance can be combined, but check program rules for specific limits.
Will a subsidy affect my other government benefits?
Check with each benefit program, but rent subsidies typically do not reduce most provincial benefits.
Can I move without losing my subsidy?
Some programs allow this. Notify Housing New Brunswick before moving.
Are there waiting lists for rental subsidies?
Yes, many programs have waiting lists. Wait times vary greatly.
How do I update my contact information in the subsidy program?
Contact your Social Development office and submit updated contact details as soon as they change.
Will my landlord know I applied for a subsidy?
For some programs, landlords are involved; for others, your application is confidential unless you are approved.
Do I need to sign a lease in subsidized housing?
Yes, tenants sign a standard lease, just like private market tenants.
Can I apply online for affordable housing in New Brunswick?
No, applications must be printed and delivered to your local Social Development office.
If my application is approved, when will I move in?
You move in when a suitable unit becomes available. This depends on waitlist position and unit supply.
Can I keep pets in subsidized housing?
Pet rules depend on your specific building or landlord. Check your lease agreement.
What if I face discrimination while applying for subsidies?
Contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission or the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for support.
Are there separate programs for Indigenous tenants?
Some programs target Indigenous communities. Contact Social Development or your local band office.
Can my subsidy be terminated?
Your subsidy can be reduced or ended if your eligibility changes or if rules are broken.
Are there language supports for non-English speakers?
Yes, some materials and staff offer service in French.
What forms are used to appeal subsidy decisions?
No specific form is required; submit an appeal letter to your local Social Development office.
Is my information kept private?
Yes, your application is confidential under privacy laws.
What is my responsibility as a tenant in subsidized housing?
Pay rent on time, keep the unit clean, respect neighbours, and follow tenant rules.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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