Top 50 Questions: Mental Health & Tenancy in New Brunswick

Mental Health & Tenancy New Brunswick published June 26, 2025 Flag of New Brunswick
What rights do tenants with mental health issues have in New Brunswick?
Tenants with mental health concerns have the same rights as all tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act and are protected from discrimination under human rights laws.
Can my landlord evict me because of my mental health condition?
No, eviction based solely on mental health status is considered discrimination and is not allowed under New Brunswick law.
What government body handles tenant disputes in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal (official site) manages rental disputes and enforcement.
Which law covers rental housing in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick governs rental housing.
What if my landlord refuses a request for mental health accommodation?
You may file a complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission (official site).
How do I ask for a reasonable accommodation?
Submit a written request to your landlord explaining your needs and, if required, provide a doctor's note supporting your request.
Can I be evicted for disturbing neighbours due to mental health symptoms?
Eviction can only occur if there are repeated major disturbances. Tenants can request accommodations if related to their medical condition.
Does my landlord need to know about my mental health diagnosis?
No, you only need to share information required for specific accommodation requests, not your diagnosis.
If I get a Notice to Vacate, what can I do?
You can dispute it through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal by filing Form 3 - Application by Tenant (Form 3).
Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability or condition?
Landlords can request medical documentation as part of an accommodation, but not your diagnosis details.
Where can I get support for mental health and tenancy issues?
Contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission or Legal Aid New Brunswick (official site).
Does my landlord need to accommodate my therapy animal?
Yes, if the therapy animal is needed for your mental health and you provide valid documentation.
What form do I use to file a complaint against my landlord?
Use Form 3 - Application by Tenant (Form 3) to file disputes with the Tribunal.
What happens if my mental health crisis makes me miss rent?
Communicate with your landlord as soon as possible and seek local support services; landlords must still follow legal eviction processes.
Are there emergency shelters in New Brunswick for tenants in crisis?
Yes, contact local social services or the Department of Social Development (official site).
What is the duty to accommodate in housing?
Landlords must take reasonable steps to remove barriers for tenants with mental health needs unless doing so causes undue hardship.
Can my landlord enter my unit for wellness checks?
Only with your consent or in genuine emergencies; otherwise, landlords must give at least 24 hours' written notice.
How do I respond if I am served an eviction notice for alleged unsafe behaviour?
You can dispute the eviction by filing Form 3 (Application by Tenant).
Where can I find the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick?
The Act is available on the New Brunswick government’s website (view the Act).
Does my landlord have to help me access support services?
No, but they must consider reasonable accommodation requests and not obstruct your access to services.
Can a landlord deny me a rental due to my mental health history?
No, this is discrimination and is illegal under the Human Rights Act and tenancy laws.
How do I prove discrimination if I am refused housing?
Gather evidence like messages or emails and file a complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission.
Who can help me fill out tenancy forms?
Tenant support services, legal aid, or the Tribunal staff can assist with forms.
Are there rules around confidentiality for mental health info?
Yes, landlords must keep any health information you provide confidential and only use it for accommodations.
What should I do if I feel harassed due to my mental health in my rental?
Document incidents and report the issue to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission.
Can I request unit modifications for my mental health?
Yes, you can request modifications if they are reasonable and documented through a professional’s note.
What if my landlord says accommodation is too expensive?
Accommodations are only denied if they cause undue hardship; this is specific and must be proven by the landlord.
What happens at a residential tenancy hearing?
Both sides present evidence; a decision is made by the Tribunal about your dispute.
How do I appeal a Tribunal decision?
File an appeal within 7 days of receiving the written decision by submitting a written request to the Tribunal.
Can I get rent relief if hospitalized for mental health reasons?
No automatic relief, but inform your landlord and consider seeking support through local programs or legal aid.
Is there financial help for tenants with mental health issues?
Yes, programs exist through Social Development and non-profit agencies; apply directly for assistance.
Who do I talk to if the Tribunal rules against my accommodation request?
You can consult Legal Aid for options or appeal within 7 days using the Tribunal’s appeal process.
What resources help with housing if I lose my home due to mental health?
Contact local emergency shelters, Social Development, and community organizations for support and rehousing.
If my mental health condition leads to property damage, what should I do?
Inform your landlord, offer to pay for damages where possible, and seek support; repeated severe damage may be grounds for eviction.
Can I have a support worker interact with my landlord for me?
Yes, if you authorize the support worker in writing to discuss tenancy matters or accommodations.
What happens if a landlord refuses to accept a therapy animal?
File a complaint with the Human Rights Commission for discrimination if documentation is provided and refused.
Where do I get official Tribunal forms?
Download them free at the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal site (forms download page).
My landlord is threatening eviction after I disclosed my mental health condition. What should I do?
Report the threats as discrimination to the Human Rights Commission and seek legal help immediately.
Can a no-pets policy be overruled for emotional support animals?
Yes, with health professional documentation for the animal as a required accommodation.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute an eviction for reasons tied to my mental health?
No, but legal support is often helpful. You can represent yourself before the Tribunal.
What proof should I give for a therapy animal accommodation?
Provide a health professional’s letter stating you require a therapy animal for your mental health.
Can I ask for a ground floor unit for mental health reasons?
Yes, if it relates to your mental health and is supported with documentation, landlords must consider your request.
Is my landlord allowed to question the details of my diagnosis?
No, only the need for accommodation may be discussed, not diagnosis specifics.
Does the Tribunal offer interpreters?
Yes, request interpreter services in advance through the Tribunal.
Can a family member represent me in Tribunal hearings?
Yes, with you present or with advance written authorization.
If I need time off for treatment, can my landlord terminate my lease?
No, not for absence alone, as long as rent is paid and rules are followed.
What should I do if I feel unsafe due to my mental health crisis?
Seek help from health services and notify your landlord if your tenancy will be affected.
How do I terminate my lease early for health reasons?
Submit a written request to your landlord explaining the situation and include documentation from a healthcare provider if possible.
Can a landlord refuse my application because I need a support person?
No, this may be considered discrimination under the Human Rights Act.
How do I file a human rights housing complaint?
Visit the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission website and follow their online complaint submission process.

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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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