Window Bars in New Brunswick Rentals: Rules, Rights, and Risks

If you're renting a home or apartment in New Brunswick, you may wonder if your landlord is allowed to install window bars or if you can request their removal for safety reasons. This article explains what tenants and landlords need to know, highlighting legal requirements, safety issues, and practical steps if you face problems with window bars.

Understanding Window Bars: Safety, Security, and the Law

Window bars are often installed to deter break-ins, especially on ground-level units. However, they can create health and safety concerns by blocking emergency exits. New Brunswick’s rules on window bars are designed to balance security with tenant safety.

Legislation and Safety Standards in New Brunswick

Rental housing safety in New Brunswick falls under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) of New Brunswick^[1] and relevant building and fire codes. There’s no specific provincial law that outright bans window bars, but standards require all residential rental units to offer safe egress (a way to exit) in case of emergencies like fire or flooding.

• Bedroom and basement windows—especially those in sleeping areas—are typically required by the National and New Brunswick Building Codes to be accessible as emergency exits. Window bars that cannot be opened from the inside may violate these codes.
• Window bars on main living areas, kitchens, or bathrooms are generally less regulated, but they must not create an unsafe living environment.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords must ensure rental properties are safe and compliant with provincial standards. Landlords are responsible for providing and maintaining safe exits, while tenants should report any safety concerns.

• If window bars are fixed permanently and prevent opening from the inside, they could put tenants at risk during emergencies. This may be a Health and Safety Issue every tenant should know about when renting.
• If you spot a violation or feel unsafe, you have the right to request repairs or modifications. Document your concerns and communicate with your landlord in writing.
• Landlords generally cannot make structural changes that negatively affect tenant health or safety without tenant agreement and code compliance.

What To Do If You Have Unsafe Window Bars

Here’s a brief action plan if you believe window bars in your rental aren’t legal or create a safety hazard:

• Check if window bars in your unit are designed to open easily from the inside without special tools. If not, note which rooms are affected.
• Contact your landlord in writing and explain your safety concerns, referencing the need for proper emergency exits according to local codes and the Residential Tenancies Act.^[1]
• If action isn’t taken, you may file a complaint with the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal.^[2]

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Tenant’s Notice of Problem to Landlord (Form 6): Use this form to report any health or safety concern, including window bars that block emergency exits. Provide a clear description of your concerns and request timely correction. Access Form 6 from Service New Brunswick.
• Application to the Tribunal (Form 12). On this form, you can request an order for the landlord to remedy the safety hazard. Download Form 12 here.

Submitting these forms can help protect your rights and may encourage faster action. For most health and safety issues, starting with open communication and documentation is best.

For a comprehensive overview of tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

If you’re seeking a new place with improved security or better amenities, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for safe and suitable options.

FAQ: Window Bars and Tenant Safety in New Brunswick

1. Are window bars allowed in New Brunswick rental properties?
   There is no specific law banning window bars, but they must not block emergency exits needed for safe evacuation. Bedroom and basement window bars should be openable from the inside.
2. What should I do if window bars prevent windows from opening?
   Contact your landlord in writing and use the Tenant’s Notice of Problem to Landlord (Form 6). If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
3. Can my landlord install or remove window bars without my permission?
   Landlords should maintain safety and comply with codes. Major changes, especially if impacting safety or habitability, should be communicated with tenants and meet building requirements.
4. Where can I file a formal complaint about unsafe window bars?
   Complaints are handled by the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal, which oversees health, safety, and habitability disputes between tenants and landlords.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Window bars are permitted only if they don’t interfere with emergency exits; safety is the priority.
• Use official forms to document concerns and communicate with your landlord.
• The Residential Tenancies Tribunal supports tenant safety complaints.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal — file complaints, access forms, get guidance
• Service New Brunswick: 1-888-762-8600 or email [email protected]
• Local tenant advocacy organizations or legal clinics for advice
• For more on health and safety, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting
• General summary: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
2. [2] New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Information for Tenants