If you are a renter in Newfoundland and Labrador dealing with bedbugs or other pests, this guide explains practical steps you can take, your rights as a tenant, and what landlords are legally expected to do. It covers how to document infestations, when to ask for pest control, how to use official forms, and what to expect if you need to bring a case to the Residential Tenancies Board. The content is written for tenants and renters who need straightforward, step-by-step help preparing evidence, communicating with landlords, and, if required, filing applications or attending hearings so you can protect your health and your rights.
How the law treats infestations
In Newfoundland and Labrador landlords are responsible for maintaining rental units in a habitable condition and may be required to arrange pest control where infestations affect habitability. If a landlord denies responsibility or delays treatment, a tenant can request remediation in writing, document the problem, and seek help from the Residential Tenancies Board[1]. The province's applicable tenancy legislation sets standards for repairs, timelines and dispute resolution; use the legislation to check specific obligations and remedies before filing a case[2].
Practical steps tenants should take
- Take dated photos and short videos of pests, bites, and related damage as evidence.
- Send a written notice to your landlord describing the infestation and requesting professional treatment; keep a copy.
- Request that pest control be done by a licensed professional and ask for the treatment plan and follow-up steps.
- Keep receipts for any expenses you pay related to temporary lodging or emergency treatments in case you seek reimbursement.
When to use official forms and the Residential Tenancies Board
If an infestation is not resolved after reasonable notice and opportunities to fix the problem, you may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board to request orders for repairs, reimbursement, or compensation. Common documents include an application form to the Board and any prescribed "Notice" forms required before filing; examples and when to use them are below[3]. If you are unsure, contact the Board for guidance on required forms and filing fees.
Examples of forms and when to use them
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Board — used when a landlord fails to address infestations after you have notified them; include evidence and receipts.
- Notice to Landlord or Tenant (where available) — used to set official timelines; for example, give written notice and allow the landlord a reasonable number of days to arrange professional treatment before applying to the Board.
Working with health and pest-control professionals
Public health or municipal pest inspectors can advise on health risks and proper treatment. Use licensed pest-control services so treatments meet safety standards; keep treatment invoices and the service report as evidence. If you must temporarily relocate for treatment, keep receipts for lodging and moving costs.
Internal resources
For help on how to handle pests practically in a rental, see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions. For a quick overview of rights specific to this province, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you must find new housing during or after a pest matter, consider Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to review options across Canada.
FAQ
- Can I withhold rent if my unit has bedbugs?
- Withholding rent is a risky step that may not be allowed; instead, provide written notice to the landlord, request professional treatment, document the problem, and seek remedy through the Residential Tenancies Board if the landlord does not act.
- Who pays for pest control?
- Generally, landlords must ensure units are habitable and may be responsible for arranging and paying for professional pest control unless the infestation was clearly caused by tenant actions under the lease; check local legislation and the Board's guidance.
- How long will a Board decision take?
- Timelines vary; the Board will schedule a hearing and provide procedural directions. Prepare evidence and receipts to speed the process and attend any scheduled hearings or mediation sessions.
How-To
- Gather evidence: take dated photos, videos, and a log of sightings and bites.
- Give written notice to your landlord describing the infestation and request professional treatment; keep a copy of the notice.
- Request a licensed pest-control company and ask for the treatment report and recommended follow-up.
- If the landlord does not act, complete and submit the Board's application form with your evidence and receipts.
- Attend mediation or a hearing and bring organized evidence, treatment invoices, and witness statements if available.
Key Takeaways
- Document infestations carefully with dates, photos, and receipts.
- Always give written notice to your landlord and keep copies.
- If problems persist, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board with your evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Service NL — Residential Tenancies Board
- Residential Tenancies legislation (Newfoundland and Labrador)
- Newfoundland and Labrador Public Health guidance on pests
