Responsibilities: landlord and tenant
Landlords in New Brunswick must keep rental units in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation. That generally includes fixing building systems (roofing, plumbing, heating) and preventing leaks from common areas or structural issues. If water damage stems from building systems or deferred maintenance, the landlord is normally responsible for arranging and paying for repairs. You can contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance or to file a dispute if repairs are refused or delayed[1].
What tenants must do
Tenants should report water damage to the landlord in writing as soon as possible, allow reasonable access for repairs, and take immediate steps to limit damage (for example, moving personal items and drying carpets). If the tenant caused the damage through negligence or misuse, the tenant may be responsible for repair costs. For emergency leaks that threaten safety or habitability, review emergency repair steps and tenant rights found in Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Common scenarios and who pays
- If a pipe bursts due to poor building upkeep, the landlord is generally responsible for repair and any necessary restoration.
- If an appliance you installed or modified causes a leak, you may be charged for repairs or damages.
- If mould appears after a repair delay, both parties should document timelines and communications to determine responsibility.
For a clear summary of basic legal duties, see the plain-language explanation in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. If a unit becomes uninhabitable and you need to find alternate housing temporarily, consider searching rental listings such as Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare short-term options.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or government
If repairs are not completed within a reasonable time after you report them in writing, you can file a formal complaint or application with the provincial tribunal. The Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal framework for these disputes and explains remedies available to tenants and landlords, including orders for repairs, compensation for damage, or rent abatements[2]. If you are unsure which official form to use, Service New Brunswick maintains the application forms and instructions[3].
FAQ
- Who pays for water damage in a rental unit?
- Responsibility depends on the cause: landlords usually pay for structural or system failures, while tenants may pay for damage caused by their negligence. Document the cause and report it in writing.
- How quickly must a landlord repair a leak?
- Landlords must act within a reasonable time; what is reasonable depends on the severity and risk to habitability. Emergency leaks that affect safety require immediate action.
- What can I do if my landlord won’t repair water damage?
- Send formal written notice, keep records, and if unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order or compensation using the official application process.
How-To
- Stop the source safely if you can (shut off the water supply or isolate the appliance) and turn off electrical power in flooded areas if safe to do so.
- Document the damage: take dated photos, make a short inventory of affected items, and save any receipts for emergency purchases or drying services.
- Notify your landlord in writing immediately and ask for a timeline for repairs; include photos and a request for confirmation of receipt.
- If the landlord does not fix the problem within a reasonable time, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act
- Tenant information and forms on Service New Brunswick
