What Happens When a Landlord Sells Your New Brunswick Unit

If your landlord decides to sell the unit you rent in New Brunswick, you probably have questions about your rights, notices, and whether you must move. This guide explains, in clear tenant-focused terms, what happens to leases, security deposits, access for showings, and the specific notices a seller or buyer must give. It covers how the Residential Tenancies rules apply, practical steps to document concerns, and how to protect your tenancy or negotiate with the new owner. Read on for examples of common scenarios, forms you may need, timelines to watch for, and where to get official help in New Brunswick so you can respond confidently and keep control of your rental situation.

What usually happens to your lease when a unit is sold

When a rental unit in New Brunswick is sold, the tenancy typically continues under the existing lease: the buyer becomes the new landlord and inherits the rights and obligations of the previous owner. If you have a fixed-term lease, the buyer generally must honour its terms until it ends unless both parties agree otherwise. If you rent month-to-month, the tenancy continues on the same terms until proper notice is given under the Residential Tenancies rules.^[2]

Common actions by sellers, buyers, and what tenants should expect

• Get formal notice of the sale or change of ownership from your landlord or property manager.
• Receive reasonable written notice for showings and inspections; owners must respect your privacy and the notice timelines required by law.
• Have your security deposit handled correctly: it should be transferred to the new owner or returned and re-paid by the buyer where required.
• Expect requests for minor repairs or cleaning before sale completion; urgent repairs must still be addressed promptly.
• Be served with any notice to end tenancy only if a lawful reason exists and proper form and timelines are followed.

Access, showings and privacy

Landlords or their agents may ask to show the unit to prospective buyers, but in New Brunswick they must provide proper written notice and arrange reasonable showing times. You may agree on times that work for your schedule; if you refuse unlawful or unreasonable entry, document the request and your response. If access is being abused or your privacy is violated, collect dates and photos and consider seeking help from the tribunal.^[1]

When the new owner wants you to move

If a buyer wants vacant possession, they still must follow the legal process and give you any required written notice and reasons under New Brunswick tenancy rules. Notices that do not follow the form, content, or timing required by law are invalid. If you receive a termination notice that you believe is improper, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to dispute it.^[1]

Forms you may need and when to use them

Common tenant-focused forms and documents include:

• Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — use this to start a dispute about an unlawful notice, deposit handling, or access problems; check the official site for the current application form and instructions.^[3]
• Written notice records — any written notice of sale, showing schedules, or termination should be saved as evidence; make copies and mark the date you received them.
• Move-in and move-out inspection reports and photos — these help prove the condition of the unit and support deposit claims.

Practical steps to protect yourself

1. Read your lease and check any clauses about assignment, sale, or early termination.
2. Ask the landlord, in writing, for details about the sale, the buyer's intentions, and any changes to rent or services.
3. Document all communications, keep receipts for rent and repairs, and take dated photos of the unit.
4. If you have concerns, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or tenant support services for guidance on filing an application.^[1]
5. If you need to find a new place, use a reliable rental search and document any move-out steps to protect your deposit.

FAQ

Can my lease be ended simply because the landlord sold the building?

In most cases in New Brunswick, a sale alone does not end a lease; the buyer becomes the new landlord and the tenancy continues unless a valid termination notice is properly served.

Do I have to allow showings for prospective buyers?

You must allow reasonable showings with proper written notice, but you can request reasonable times and expect privacy and respectful treatment during visits.

Where do I file a dispute if I get an improper notice?

File an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal; check the official tribunal pages for the current application form and filing instructions.^[1]

How-To

1. Gather your lease, rent receipts, inspection reports, and any written notices about the sale.
2. Ask the landlord or agent for written confirmation of dates, showing procedures, and who will hold the deposit after closing.
3. Document every showing, entry, and communication with dates and photos.
4. If a termination notice appears invalid, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and follow instructions to file an application.^[1]
5. If you must move, start searching early and consider using a national rental search like Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find options across cities.

Key Takeaways

• Your lease usually stays in effect after a sale and the buyer steps into the landlord role.
• Proper written notices and legal forms must be used for showings or termination.
• Document communications, keep receipts, and use the tribunal if you need to dispute a notice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies information and tribunal pages (Service New Brunswick)
• New Brunswick legislation and the Residential Tenancies Act
• Official forms and applications (Service New Brunswick)

1. [1] Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies Tribunal
2. [2] Government of New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies Act and legislation
3. [3] Service New Brunswick - Forms and applications for residential tenancies