Top 50 Questions on Rent & Deposits for Tenants in New Brunswick

Rent & Deposits New Brunswick published June 26, 2025 Flag of New Brunswick
Who regulates residential tenancies in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick regulates rentals and disputes.
What law covers rent and deposits in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick sets the rules for rent and deposits.
Is there a limit on how much rent my landlord can charge?
There is no provincially set rent limit, but rent increases must follow strict notice requirements.
How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
Landlords must give at least 3 months' written notice before increasing rent in New Brunswick.
Can my landlord increase rent during a fixed-term lease?
No, rent cannot be increased during the term of a fixed-term lease unless agreed in writing by both parties.
How often can my landlord increase my rent?
Only once every 12 months for the same tenant.
What information must be in a rent increase notice?
The new amount, effective date, and must be in writing; use Form 11 – Notice of Rent Increase.
Where can I find Form 11 – Notice of Rent Increase?
You can find it here (PDF) on the NB government site.
Can I dispute a rent increase?
Yes, you may request a review from the Tribunal if you feel the rent increase is unfair.
How do I dispute a rent increase in New Brunswick?
File a request for review within 15 days of receiving the notice using Form 3 – Application.Form 3.
How much can my landlord ask for a security deposit?
Maximum is one month's rent.
When must my security deposit be returned?
Within 7 days after your tenancy ends, unless there are deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
Can a landlord keep my entire security deposit?
No, only the amount needed to cover damages (not normal wear) or outstanding rent.
Do I get interest on my security deposit?
Yes, your landlord must pay annual interest at the rate set by the province.
How do I request the return of my security deposit?
Submit Form 4 – Application for Release of Security Deposit. Form 4.
When does the landlord have to return a pet deposit?
Pet deposits are not allowed separately in New Brunswick.
Can a landlord request post-dated cheques for rent?
No, tenants cannot be required to provide post-dated cheques but may choose to.
What if my landlord refuses to return my deposit?
Apply to the Tribunal using Form 4 – Application for Release of Security Deposit.
Can rent be increased for subsidized housing?
No, unless your subsidy changes; policies may be different for social housing.
How do I pay rent if my landlord changes bank details?
Your landlord must inform you of new payment details in writing; keep proof of payment.
Is a written lease required in New Brunswick?
No, but it is recommended for clarity; verbal agreements are also legal.
What is a typical lease term in New Brunswick?
Lease terms can be weekly, monthly, year-to-year, or fixed-term; monthly is most common.
Can my landlord ask for more than one month's rent in advance?
No, only a security deposit up to one month's rent is allowed.
What happens if I pay rent late?
Your landlord may issue a Notice to Vacate; contact them as soon as possible to discuss.
Can my landlord charge late fees for rent?
Yes, but only if agreed to in your lease; fees must be reasonable.
What if I can't afford my rent?
Contact your landlord and local social services for help as soon as possible.
Can my landlord ask for a key deposit?
No, only a security deposit is allowed; extra deposits are not permitted.
Can I deduct repairs from my rent?
Only if approved by the Tribunal in advance; do not withhold rent without official consent.
What should I do if my landlord increases rent without proper notice?
Report it to the Tribunal; rent increases must have 3 months’ written notice.
Can my landlord increase rent during COVID-19?
There are currently no special rent freeze rules; normal notice rules apply.
If my landlord sells the property, can my rent be increased?
The new owner must still follow the standard notice rules for any rent increase.
Can I get a receipt for rent?
Yes, your landlord must give you a receipt for any rent payment upon request.
May a landlord raise rent because I complained about repairs?
Retaliatory rent increases are not allowed; report concerns to the Tribunal if this happens.
Can my landlord evict me for not agreeing to a rent increase?
No, not if you are current with rent and have not broken your lease.
How do I know what services are included in my rent?
Your lease should list all included services (e.g., heat, water) or ask your landlord in writing.
Can a landlord increase rent if another tenant moves out?
Only the rent for a new tenant can be set at market value; rules for current tenants still apply.
Is my security deposit protected?
Yes, landlords must deposit it with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal within 15 days of receiving it.
How can I confirm my deposit is held by the Tribunal?
Ask your landlord for proof or contact the Tribunal directly for confirmation.
Are rent payments required to be in cash?
No, you can pay by any method agreed upon (e.g., cheque, e-transfer); never pay cash without a receipt.
What if the landlord raises rent above market value?
You may dispute it with the Tribunal using Form 3 (Application for Review of Rent Increase).
Can I sublet or assign my rental if I pay a deposit?
Only with the landlord’s written consent; check your lease for any restrictions.
How soon after moving in should I pay the security deposit?
Usually before you move in or as stated in the lease; payment timing must be agreed with landlord.
Can a landlord deduct cleaning costs from my deposit?
Only if the unit is not left reasonably clean; normal wear and tear is not covered.
Who pays for utilities in a rental property?
Check your lease; the party (tenant or landlord) responsible must be clearly stated.
What if my landlord never deposited my security deposit with the Tribunal?
Contact the Tribunal; the landlord may be ordered to correct this or return your deposit.
Do rent increase rules apply to roommates/subtenants?
Yes, as long as the agreement is with the landlord and not a co-tenant.
Are oral agreements about deposits valid?
Yes, but always get receipts and confirmation in writing when possible.
How does the annual interest on deposits get calculated?
The rate set yearly by the province; ask your landlord or the Tribunal for the current rate.
How long must my landlord keep records of rent and deposits?
They must keep records for 3 years after your tenancy ends.
Where can I get help understanding my rights about rent and deposits?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for support and information.

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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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