Tenants and renters in New Brunswick often wonder when a landlord must hire a licensed contractor rather than using an unlicensed worker or doing repairs themselves. This guide explains provincial safety and habitability rules, common repair types that typically require licensed professionals (like electrical, gas, major plumbing and HVAC), and what tenants can do if work is delayed or unsafe. You’ll find practical steps for reporting issues, the official forms and tribunal contacts to pursue orders, and examples of reasonable timelines. The tone remains neutral and focused on clear tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and how to document problems to protect your home and safety while repairs are completed.
When licensed contractors are required in New Brunswick
Not every repair requires a licensed tradesperson, but many safety-critical jobs do. The following are common examples where landlords should hire licensed contractors under provincial safety and trade regulation, especially when permits or inspections are required.
- Electrical work (new wiring, panel changes, or any repairs that affect circuits or safety devices).
- Gas appliance installation or gas line repairs (risk of leaks and carbon monoxide).
- Major plumbing that affects water supply, sewer connections, or backflow prevention.
- Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems when work affects fuel-burning appliances or ventilation.
- Structural repairs affecting load-bearing walls, foundations, roofing, or stairways.
Why license and permits matter
Licensed contractors are trained, insured, and often required to pull permits for certain work. When landlords hire licensed professionals, tenants gain better assurance that repairs meet electrical, plumbing, gas, and building safety codes and that inspections will be completed where required by law. Tenants should ask for receipts, permits, and a written description of the work when repairs are finished.
Examples of tenant scenarios
- If a heater stops working in winter and the repair affects the furnace or gas lines, a licensed HVAC or gas technician is usually required.
- For persistent water leaks that risk mold or structural damage, landlords should hire licensed plumbers and may need to obtain permits for major fixes.
- Minor cosmetic fixes (paint, small drywall patches) do not normally require licensed trades.
If work creates an immediate safety risk (like a gas smell or exposed live wiring), follow emergency steps and consider temporary relocation options if your unit is unsafe.
What to do: steps for tenants
Follow clear, documented steps so you preserve your rights if a landlord won’t hire a licensed contractor or delays necessary repairs.
- Notify your landlord in writing describing the problem, date, and any safety concerns and keep a copy for your records.
- Take photos or videos that show the damage, leak, or unsafe condition and note the time and date.
- Follow up with a phone call and confirm any promised timelines in writing (email or text is fine).
- If the landlord still doesn’t act, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order to compel repairs or hire a licensed contractor and recover costs if applicable[2].
For emergency guidance and repair timelines, see our internal resources on Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and on routine responsibilities in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
Official forms and the legislation you may need
Knowing which official forms to use and when helps tenants move a file forward with clarity. The main provincial law governing residential tenancies in New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Act[1], and disputes are handled through the provincial tribunal or its administrative office[2].
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (application form): used when a landlord refuses reasonable repairs and you need an order. Example: you submit the application, include photos and copies of written notices, and request a timetable for repairs.
- Notice to Repair or Request for Repair (if available): a written notice you send to the landlord asking them to fix the issue and giving a reasonable deadline. Example: send a dated email describing the problem and asking for a licensed contractor within 7 days for safety-related repairs.
- Receipts and permits: when a licensed contractor completes work, keep receipts and any permit documentation to show the work met code and was performed by a qualified tradesperson.
FAQ
- Do landlords always need a licensed contractor for repairs in New Brunswick?
- Not always. Landlords must use licensed contractors when work affects safety, regulated systems (electrical, gas, major plumbing, HVAC) or requires permits; minor cosmetic repairs often do not require a licensed trade.
- What can I do if my landlord uses an unlicensed worker for major repairs?
- Document the work, notify your landlord in writing asking for licensed repair, and if there is no reasonable response, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order requiring licensed repairs and possible remedies.
- How long should I wait for a landlord to fix an urgent safety issue?
- Urgent safety issues should be addressed immediately; if not, inform the landlord in writing and consider emergency repair steps and tribunal application if the landlord does not act quickly.
How-To
- Write a clear notice to your landlord describing the problem, its safety implications, the date it started, and request that a licensed contractor perform the repair.
- Provide access for inspection or repair and keep records of any appointments and technician names.
- If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal including your evidence and a description of remedies you seek.
- Attend the tribunal hearing (in person or by phone), present your documentation, and follow the tribunal order for timelines, repairs, or cost recovery.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
- [1] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
- [3] Residential tenancies forms and guides - Service New Brunswick
If you need temporary housing while repairs are completed, consider alternative options such as short-term rentals or contacting local supports and housing services. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
