Many renters and tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador need accessible parking near their rental home. This guide explains what accessible parking means for tenants, when you can ask your landlord for a reserved space, and how to document and request reasonable accommodations under provincial tenancy rules. It sets out practical, tenant-focused steps: how to make a written request, what evidence to include, timelines to expect, and what to do if the landlord disagrees. The language is plain and action-oriented so you can prepare a request, protect your rights, and decide when to contact the Residential Tenancies Board for help.
Understanding your rights
Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have the right to ask for reasonable accommodations related to a disability, such as an accessible parking space next to the building. The provincial Residential Tenancies Board handles disputes about accommodations and tenancy issues.[1] The relevant legislation is the provincial residential tenancies statute and associated regulations that outline landlord and tenant responsibilities and how the Board decides disputes.[2]
When to ask for accessible parking
- When a written notice helps document your accommodation request to the landlord.
- When you can supply supporting evidence such as a medical note, provincial parking permit, or mobility aid details.
- When timing matters — ask as soon as the need arises or within any timeframe stated in your lease.
- When informal discussion fails and you need to escalate to written requests or the Board.
How to request accessible parking
Follow clear steps so your request is easier to review and act on.
- Write a clear, dated request that explains the accommodation you need and why it is related to a disability.
- Attach relevant evidence: a doctor’s note, mobility permit, photos of current parking layout, or documentation of mobility limits.
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to respond in writing — for example, within 14 days — and keep copies of everything.
- If the landlord refuses or does not respond, contact the Residential Tenancies Board to learn about filing an application or mediation.
What landlords can and cannot do
Landlords must consider reasonable accommodation requests but can refuse only if accommodation would cause undue hardship or if the request is unrelated to a disability. They may propose alternatives, such as reassigning an existing stall nearer the unit, or creating a marked space. If your lease has specific parking rules, review them and use the advice in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement to understand your ongoing obligations and rights.
Evidence checklist
- Medical note or documentation from a health professional describing mobility needs.
- Copies of the written request and any landlord responses.
- Photographs or a short video showing current parking layout and distances to the unit.
- Records of dates and times of conversations or deliveries related to your request.
FAQ
- Can my landlord refuse my request for accessible parking?
- They must consider reasonable accommodation but can refuse only if the change would cause undue hardship or is unrelated to your disability; you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Board if you disagree.
- Do I need a doctors note to get accessible parking?
- Medical evidence helps, but the exact requirements depend on the situation; provide what you can and explain why the parking is necessary.
- How long does the Board take to resolve disputes?
- Timelines vary; the Board may offer mediation first, then a hearing if needed, so raise concerns early and keep records.
How-To
- Draft a dated written request explaining the accommodation and the reason it is needed.
- Collect supporting evidence such as medical notes, permits, and photos of parking and walkways.
- Deliver the request to your landlord and set a clear reasonable deadline for a written reply.
- If unresolved, contact the Residential Tenancies Board to learn how to file an application or request mediation.
Key Takeaways
- Make accommodation requests in writing and keep dated copies.
- Supporting documents and photos improve the chance of a positive outcome.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Board for disputes you cannot resolve with the landlord.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act and regulations - Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
