Many tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador wonder whether age counts as a lawful factor when landlords assess rental applications. Age discrimination can be direct — such as refusing to rent because an applicant is young or older — or indirect, where policies or practices have an unfair effect on certain age groups. This guide explains what to watch for in application forms, screening questions and advertising, and shows practical steps tenants can take to document incidents, ask for an explanation, and file complaints with the appropriate provincial body. It also outlines evidence to gather, timelines to follow, and where to find local supports and official forms so you can respond confidently and protect your housing rights.
What is age discrimination in rentals?
Age discrimination happens when rental decisions are based on a persons age rather than relevant tenancy criteria like ability to pay rent or references. In Newfoundland and Labrador this is addressed under provincial tenancy rules and related legislation[1], and can include differential treatment in advertising, screening or contract terms.
Signs of possible age discrimination
- Application forms that ask for personal details unrelated to tenancy decisions, such as specific age or life-stage questions.
- Advertisements or listings that state age preferences or exclude certain age groups.
- Different deposit or rent terms applied only to younger or older applicants.
- Documented verbal or written refusals with vague reasons while similar applicants are accepted.
What you can do
- Keep records of application forms, emails, text messages and names of people you spoke with.
- Note dates and times of interactions and any deadlines you are given for applications or responses.
- Ask the landlord or property manager for a written reason and any application form used if your application is refused.
- Seek local advice from tenant services and consider informal dispute resolution before filing a formal application.
If informal steps don't resolve the issue, you can file a formal application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[2]. Before applying, gather the evidence described above and complete the official application form, typically called the "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal" or similar[3]. A clear example: if you were told your age made you ineligible and another similarly qualified applicant was accepted, include copies of ads, messages and names of witnesses when you file.
For renters looking for alternative units while you resolve a complaint, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme. To understand your basic statutory rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. For guidance on drafting a complaint and what to expect, review How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide.
FAQ
- Is age a protected ground under Newfoundland and Labrador tenancy rules?
- Provincial tenancy rules and related human rights protections can prohibit discrimination by age in housing decisions; check the local legislation and tribunal procedure for details.
- How do I file a complaint about age discrimination in a rental application?
- Gather evidence, ask for a written reason from the landlord, seek local tenant advice, and file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if necessary.
- What remedies can a tribunal order?
- A tribunal may order remedies such as compensation, changes to a landlords practices, or other directions depending on the circumstances and available evidence.
How-To
- Gather dated evidence: application copies, messages, ads and witness names.
- Ask the landlord for a written explanation and request any application form or notes in writing.
- Contact local tenant advice services for help drafting your complaint.
- Complete and submit the official tribunal application form with supporting documents.
- Attend the hearing, present your evidence clearly and follow any directions the tribunal gives.
Help and Support / Resources
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act and legislation — Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Tenant information and forms — Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
