Top 50 Questions: Discrimination & Accessibility – New Brunswick

Discrimination & Accessibility New Brunswick published June 26, 2025 Flag of New Brunswick
What laws protect tenants from discrimination in New Brunswick?
The New Brunswick Human Rights Act and the Residential Tenancies Act protect tenants from discrimination.
Who enforces tenant rights about discrimination?
The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission handles discrimination complaints.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
No, refusing to rent to families with children is illegal under the Human Rights Act.
What is considered discrimination in rental housing?
Discrimination is treating you unfairly based on race, age, gender, disability, family status, or other protected grounds.
Can a landlord evict me for having a disability?
No, evicting you because of a disability is discrimination and prohibited by law.
What should I do if I face discrimination from my landlord?
You can file a complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission.
How do I make a discrimination complaint?
Complete the "Complaint Form" from the Human Rights Commission and submit it by mail, fax, or email. Download here.
Are there deadlines for filing a discrimination complaint?
Yes, complaints must be filed within one year of the incident.
What disabilities are covered under the Human Rights Act?
Physical, mental, intellectual, and learning disabilities are protected.
Can a landlord refuse a service animal in New Brunswick?
No, denying a tenant with a disability a service animal is discrimination.
Do I have to provide proof my animal is a service animal?
You may be asked for reasonable documentation, such as a doctor's note.
What housing modifications can I request for my disability?
You can request ramps, grab bars, light switches, or other adjustments needed for accessibility.
Must I pay for accessibility modifications myself?
Generally, tenants pay for modifications but must return the unit to original condition when leaving, unless the landlord agrees otherwise.
Can a landlord deny my modification request?
Only if it causes undue hardship, such as extreme cost or safety issues.
What is "undue hardship"?
Undue hardship means significant difficulty or expense for the landlord, as defined by law.
Can rent be increased because I requested accessibility changes?
No, landlords cannot increase your rent solely because of an accessibility request.
Who can help me with accessibility issues in my rental?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the Human Rights Commission.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me based on my race or religion?
No, discrimination based on race or religion is illegal in New Brunswick.
What can I do if a landlord advertises "adults only" apartments?
Report the ad to the Human Rights Commission—forbidding children is usually discrimination.
Are seniors' buildings allowed to have age restrictions?
Yes, bona fide seniors' homes (aged 55+) are allowed to restrict by age.
Who can help me if I feel harassed due to my gender identity?
File a complaint with the Human Rights Commission for gender identity discrimination or harassment.
Can a landlord ask about my sexual orientation?
No, landlords cannot ask or discriminate based on sexual orientation.
Can a landlord set different rules based on my nationality?
No, landlords cannot treat you differently because of your nationality or ethnic background.
Are there protections for pregnant tenants?
Yes, discrimination based on pregnancy is prohibited by law.
Can I keep a support animal for mental health needs?
Yes, support animals are protected under disability rights.
Can my landlord ask me to move if I make accessibility modifications?
No, requesting modifications is your right—they cannot evict you for it.
If the building isn’t accessible, can I break my lease?
Sometimes, if the landlord won’t accommodate your disability and it’s essential, contact the Tribunal or Human Rights Commission for help.
Can a landlord charge a pet deposit for my service animal?
No, extra fees for service or support animals are not allowed.
How do I request modifications from my landlord?
Ask in writing and explain your needs; provide supporting documents if needed.
Do landlords have to install elevators for wheelchair users?
No, unless not doing so causes undue hardship. Each case depends on the building and expense.
Can a landlord deny my request if it’s a heritage building?
Heritage status may affect modifications, but landlords must try to accommodate unless there’s undue hardship.
What should I do if a landlord retaliates against me?
Retaliation for asserting your rights is illegal; make a complaint to the Human Rights Commission or Tribunal.
Can a landlord check my immigration status?
Landlords can ask for ID to confirm who you are but cannot discriminate based on immigration status or nationality.
What should I do if I discover inaccessible emergency exits?
Notify your landlord in writing; if not addressed, contact the fire department and Tribunal.
Is there financial help for accessibility modifications?
Some government grants may be available. Contact the NB Housing Programs for details.
Can my landlord require me to remove accessibility modifications when I move out?
Yes, if the modification is not permanent, the landlord may require restorations unless you agree otherwise.
Can discrimination affect my rent or lease terms?
No. Discrimination with rent or terms is illegal and can be challenged.
What if a neighbour is harassing me about my disability?
Report it to your landlord and, if unresolved, to the Human Rights Commission or Tribunal.
Can a landlord refuse to provide accessible parking?
Reasonable requests for accessible parking must be accommodated unless it causes undue hardship.
Are advertising phrases like "no immigrants" or "no pets" allowed?
"No immigrants" is illegal discrimination. Bans on pets can be legal, but not service/support animals.
Where do I find the Residential Tenancies Tribunal forms?
Tribunal forms are available here.
Can I be denied rental because I receive social assistance?
Discrimination against people on social assistance may be challenged as discrimination based on source of income.
What happens after I file a Human Rights complaint?
The Commission reviews, may mediate, and can investigate or refer to a tribunal for a hearing.
Can I have someone help me file forms due to my disability?
Yes. You can ask for help or accommodation at the Human Rights Commission or Tribunal.
Are landlords required to give information in alternate formats (large print, Braille)?
If you need information in an accessible format, request it; landlords must try to accommodate.
My child has a disability. Can rental rules exclude my family?
No. Excludings families because of a member's disability is discrimination.
Are tenant unions or associations protected from discrimination?
Yes, tenants' rights to organize are protected and cannot be targeted for discrimination.
Can a landlord evict me for complaining about discrimination?
No. That would be retaliation, which is illegal.
What is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal?
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal manages rental disputes and tenant rights in New Brunswick.
Which law covers discrimination in New Brunswick rental housing?
The Human Rights Act and Residential Tenancies Act.
Can discrimination apply to roommate situations?
Yes, if a landlord is discriminatory in approving or advertising roommates, it is covered by law.
What forms do I need to officially raise a dispute?
Use the "Application for Assistance" on the Tribunal site: Form 1.

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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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