An LTB consent order resolves a tenancy dispute by recording an agreement between the tenant and landlord that the tribunal approves. After the order is issued, tenants in New Brunswick should know what steps to take to meet obligations, protect their rights, and respond if problems arise. This article explains practical actions renters can take — reading deadlines carefully, paying or documenting any amounts ordered, requesting receipts, and where to find official forms and help. It also covers enforcement and appeal options, and simple examples so tenants understand when to comply, when to ask for more time, and how to get community or legal support in New Brunswick.
Understanding a consent order and the tribunal
A consent order is a written agreement approved by the tribunal that becomes an official order. In New Brunswick the official body that handles residential tenancy decisions is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal [1]. The order will state who must do what, by when, and any amounts owing. It is legally binding unless set aside, varied, or successfully appealed under local rules and the governing legislation.[2]
Common next steps for tenants
- Check the order for deadlines and dates and mark them in your calendar immediately.
- Pay any amounts the order requires, or document why you cannot and ask the landlord for a receipt.
- Keep copies of the order, receipts, photos, and any messages about compliance as evidence.
- If you disagree, learn how to apply for reconsideration or appeal within the time limits set in the order.
- Contact tenant advice services or legal aid if you need help understanding obligations or getting more time.
Enforcement — what can happen if the order isn’t followed
If a tenant or landlord does not follow the consent order, the other party can ask the tribunal to enforce it. Enforcement may include monetary judgments or orders to vacate, depending on the terms. In practice, tenants who receive a notice of enforcement should act quickly: pay amounts ordered if possible, ask for a short extension in writing, or apply for reconsideration with evidence showing why the order should change.
If you need to challenge or change the order
There are limited options to vary or set aside a consent order. Typical paths include asking the tribunal for reconsideration, filing an appeal if allowed, or negotiating a new agreement with the landlord and submitting it to the tribunal. When pursuing these options, use the tribunal’s official forms and follow the timelines exactly. For example, if you have a sudden financial hardship and need extra time to pay, you might file a reconsideration request and attach proof of your income change and a proposed payment plan.
Practical examples and forms tenants may need
Common official forms and when a tenant might use them:
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (official application form) — used when starting a proceeding or requesting a reconsideration; for example, a tenant files an application after receiving an enforcement notice and asks the tribunal to review new evidence.[2]
- Notice to End Tenancy (official notice forms) — used by a tenant or landlord to formally give notice; for example, a tenant who must move out because of the order serves the correct notice and files proof with the tribunal.
- Enforcement or collection information (court or tribunal enforcement forms) — used by a landlord to register the order for enforcement if the tenant does not comply; a tenant should check these procedures immediately if contacted by enforcement agents.
Find the official tribunal page and the forms on the provincial site to download the correct versions and confirm current filing fees and timelines.[1][2]
For related tenant topics, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for general rights and obligations, and consult How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for deposit steps when a consent order affects your move.
You can also search listings if you need to find another rental quickly: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can my landlord enforce a consent order?
- Yes. A consent order is enforceable. If the tenant does not follow it the landlord may apply to the tribunal or court for enforcement and remedies available under New Brunswick rules.
- What if I missed a deadline in the order?
- If you missed a deadline, act quickly: contact the landlord in writing, gather supporting evidence, and consider filing a reconsideration request with the tribunal explaining the reason and proposing how you will comply.
How-To
- Read the consent order carefully and note every deadline, monetary amount, and required action.
- Pay or document payments ordered and obtain receipts; if you cannot pay immediately, propose a written payment plan to the landlord.
- Use the tribunal’s official forms to request reconsideration or file necessary notices within the time limits.
- Contact tenant support, legal aid, or mediation services for help preparing evidence or applications.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Government of New Brunswick - Services and Forms
