Looking for a place to rent can be challenging, especially for tenants with children. If you’re searching for a rental in Newfoundland and Labrador, you might wonder: can a landlord legally reject you just because you have kids? This article explains your rights, the law, and how to act if you face discrimination.
Your Rights as a Tenant With Children
In Newfoundland and Labrador, landlords cannot refuse to rent to you solely because you have children. This type of rejection is called “family status discrimination,” and it is illegal under both the Human Rights Act, 2010 and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.[1][2] Family status includes children, so landlords must treat all rental applicants equally, regardless of whether they have kids.
What Counts as Discrimination?
Discrimination includes actions like:
- Telling you the rental is unavailable once the landlord learns you have children
- Setting rules that only allow “adults” or “professionals” unless mandated for certain types of housing (like seniors’ residences)
- Charging higher rent or deposits due to having kids
Such practices violate your rights and are not allowed for most residential rentals in the province.
What Legislation Protects Families?
Tenant protections are rooted in two main laws:
- Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act, 2010 – Prohibits discrimination by landlords based on family status or having children. See the full legislation.
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 – Sets rules for rental agreements, notices, deposits, and tenant rights. Read the Act.
If you need a quick overview of your local laws, visit our Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador page.
What Landlords Can and Cannot Do
Landlords have a right to screen tenants, but they cannot reject solely based on children. They may:
- Request references or conduct credit checks
- Ask about pets, employment, or intended use of the property
- Enforce reasonable occupancy limits, as per health and safety codes
However, if a landlord turns away a rental application just because you have children, this could be a violation of your rights.
What If the Landlord Claims “Damage” or “Noise”?
Landlords sometimes worry about more wear and tear with children. However, they cannot use this as a blanket reason to turn away families. Instead, if an issue arises after you move in, both tenants and landlords must address it according to the law. Learn about your rights and duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
If You Experience Discrimination
If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you because you have children, you have options:
- Gather written evidence such as emails, texts, or ads
- Contact the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador to file a complaint
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Division for further guidance
Both organizations may require you to complete specific forms and provide supporting documents. Human rights complaints can result in corrective measures and, sometimes, compensation for lost housing opportunities.
Official Forms for Complaints
- Human Rights Complaint Form – Use this form to file a discrimination complaint with the Human Rights Commission. Download the form and instructions. For example, if a landlord told you their "no kids" policy, fill out this form, describe the incident, attach any proof (screenshots, emails), and submit it to the Commission.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Division – If your issue is also related to rental agreement rights (for example, if you are denied a lease after being accepted), contact the Residential Tenancies Division and use their "Application for Orders" form. You may need to explain the situation and request specific remedies.
If you’re rejected for having children, act quickly. Keep all communications, and reach out to tenant services or legal help as soon as possible.
Other Rights to Know When Renting With Children
- Landlords cannot add extra charges or deposits just because you have children. For deposit rules, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
- Tenants with children have equal rights to repairs, safety, and peaceful enjoyment of the home.
- For help on what happens after you sign a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
For a broad selection of family-friendly homes, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ: Renting With Children in Newfoundland and Labrador
- Can a landlord advertise "adults only" rentals?
Except for legally specified housing (like seniors’ homes), it is usually illegal for landlords to restrict rentals based on age or family status. “Adults only” ads for typical rental units may be discriminatory. - What should I do if denied a rental because I have kids?
Document any communication (texts, emails), save the advertisement, and contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission to discuss filing a complaint. - Can a landlord charge me more because I have children?
No. Landlords cannot impose extra fees or higher deposits based solely on having kids. All tenants must be treated equally under the law. - Does the law protect families in roommate or shared housing situations?
Yes, the same human rights rules apply to shared housing if the unit is self-contained. However, if you live in a unit where the landlord shares the kitchen or bathroom, some exceptions apply.
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Landlords cannot reject you solely because you have children.
- If you experience discrimination, act quickly by collecting evidence and seeking help.
- Understanding your rights can help you secure safe, fair housing for your family.
For more information about your local housing laws and protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission – File a discrimination complaint or get support: 1-800-563-5808
- Residential Tenancies Division of Newfoundland and Labrador – Apply for dispute resolution or get answers to rental questions: 1-877-829-2608
- Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission – Free legal help for low-income tenants
- Local tenant organizations or legal clinics can provide advocacy and advice if you feel your rights have been violated.
