10 Key Facts Every Newfoundland and Labrador Renter Should Know About Repairs

Maintaining a safe, comfortable home is every tenant’s right—but navigating repairs in rental housing can be tricky. If you're a renter in Newfoundland and Labrador, knowing your maintenance and repair rights empowers you to solve problems quickly and effectively. This guide explains what matters most, from urgent repairs to pest control and getting help if your landlord doesn't act.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, landlords are required to keep the rental unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation, compliant with health and safety standards.^[1] Tenants are responsible for keeping the rental clean and reporting problems as they arise.

• Landlord: Structural repairs, plumbing, heating, electrical, safety hazards
• Tenant: Day-to-day cleanliness, minor accidental damage

For more about shared duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Fact 1: Repairs Can’t Be “Waived” in Your Lease

It is illegal for landlords to include clauses in rental agreements that remove their duty to maintain the unit or property.

Fact 2: What Qualifies as an Emergency Repair?

Emergencies include the loss of heat in winter, major plumbing leaks, power outages, or anything making the property unsafe. Landlords must act as quickly as possible for emergencies.

Fact 3: Routine Repairs—What Counts and What to Expect

Routine (non-urgent) repair issues—like a loose cabinet or dripping faucet—must also be addressed, but within a reasonable time. Tenants should

• Report issues promptly, in writing if possible
• Document maintenance requests and landlord’s responses

Learn more in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Fact 4: How to Request Repairs

Describe the problem and submit the request in writing (email or letter works). Include the location and a proposed timeline.

Fact 5: What if My Landlord Doesn't Respond?

If urgent repairs aren't addressed, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an order requiring repairs.

Key Form: Application for Orders (Form RT - available from the Residential Tenancies Office)

• When to use: If your landlord ignores repair requests or safety hazards
• How: Complete the form, provide evidence (photos, emails), and submit to the Residential Tenancies Office
• Official form and instructions

Fact 6: Health and Safety Issues

If your repair issue affects health (like mold, faulty heating, unsafe wiring), the landlord has a duty to fix it immediately. For more on these rights, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Fact 7: Dealing with Pests

Pest problems (such as mice, insects) must be reported quickly. The landlord is generally responsible for pest extermination, unless caused by the tenant’s action or neglect. See more about this process in Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

Fact 8: Entry for Repairs—Notice and Rules

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice (except in emergencies)
• Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you consent otherwise

Fact 9: What Not to Do—Withholding Rent

Never stop paying rent to force repairs. This can place your tenancy at risk. Instead, use the official complaint process and keep records.

Always document your repair requests and the landlord's responses. This can help if you need to apply to the Residential Tenancies Office.

Fact 10: What If Repairs Are Needed When Moving In?

Complete a move-in inspection with your landlord and note all issues. Keep a copy for future reference. For a full walkthrough, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Looking beyond Newfoundland and Labrador? Check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a province-wide summary.

Easily Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find your next home quickly and safely.

FAQ: Maintenance & Repairs for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Who is responsible for fixing broken appliances in my rental?
   Generally, landlords are responsible for maintaining supplied appliances, unless you damaged them through careless use.
2. What should I do if my landlord ignores urgent repair requests?
   Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an order, and attach records of your requests.
3. Do I have to pay for pest control in my rental unit?
   Usually, pest control is the landlord’s responsibility unless you caused the issue through neglect.
4. How much notice does my landlord need to give before entering for repairs?
   At least 24 hours’ written notice is required except for emergencies.
5. Can I use my deposit to pay for repairs?
   No, deposits cannot be unilaterally used for repairs. Follow the official process instead.

How To: Handling Repairs Disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals

1. How to submit a complaint if repairs aren’t done?
   1. Gather evidence (photos, emails, written requests). 2. Fill out the Application for Orders form. 3. Submit the form to the Residential Tenancies Office and attend your hearing if scheduled.
2. How to prepare for the initial move-in inspection?
   1. Schedule the walkthrough with your landlord. 2. Note and photograph pre-existing issues. 3. Sign the inspection report and keep a copy.
3. How to report a pest problem?
   1. Notify your landlord in writing immediately. 2. Cooperate with scheduled pest control treatments. 3. Keep copies of all correspondence.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must maintain rental properties in a safe, livable condition.
• Document your repair requests and act quickly for emergencies.
• If repairs are ignored, use the proper complaint forms and resources to assert your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office, Newfoundland and Labrador (dispute forms and tenant resources)
• Rights and obligations of tenants and landlords
• For health and safety issues, contact your local municipal government or public health office

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Office: Official information and forms

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