Can Landlords Prohibit Pets in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals?

Many tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador want to keep pets, but may be unsure about what is actually allowed under provincial law. Understanding whether landlords can ban pets in rentals—and the exceptions—can help renters avoid misunderstandings or disputes.

Are Landlords Allowed to Ban Pets in Rentals?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, landlords can include a "no pets" clause in a rental agreement. This means landlords are legally permitted to prohibit tenants from having pets, except for certain exceptions under federal and provincial law. The relevant law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.^[1]

What Does the Rental Agreement Say?

Your lease or rental agreement is your primary guide. If it specifically states that pets are not permitted, you are generally required to follow these rules. Violating this provision could lead to eviction proceedings. For more information about understanding your rights and obligations after you sign your rental agreement, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Can a Landlord Change the Pet Policy Mid-Lease?

The landlord cannot unilaterally change the rules during a fixed-term agreement. If your initial agreement permitted pets, your landlord cannot suddenly ban them until it's time to renew or renegotiate your lease. For existing pet bans, the rule remains in effect for the duration of the agreement unless both parties agree in writing to a change.

Exceptions: Service Animals and Human Rights Laws

While "no pets" clauses are generally enforceable, they do not apply to service animals. The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act protects individuals who require service animals due to a disability.

• Tenants with a bona fide need for a service animal can not be refused accommodation solely because of their animal.
• Landlords may request reasonable documentation about the need for a service animal, but cannot ask for specifics about the tenant's disability.

If a dispute arises about a service animal, it can be addressed through the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission or the Office of the Residential Tenancies Board (Residential Tenancies Board).

What Happens If You Have Pets Against a "No Pets" Clause?

Tenants who keep pets in breach of their lease may face:

• A written notice from the landlord to remove the pet
• Potential application to the Residential Tenancies Board for an order to vacate the unit
• Loss of part or all of their security deposit for damages caused by the pet

For more about deposits in the context of damages, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Health, Safety, and Nuisance Concerns

In rare cases, even if pets are allowed, landlords can act if a pet:

• Poses a danger or health risk to others in the building
• Causes damage or creates nuisance (like excessive noise or mess)

For a broader overview of tenant rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Official Forms for Tenants and Landlords

Form RTB-004: Application for Dispute Resolution (Download PDF)
Use this form if you are a tenant disputing an eviction or seeking clarification of your rights regarding pets. For example, if you believe your right to a service animal is being denied, you would complete and submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Board.

Looking for Pet-Friendly Rentals?

If you're searching for a unit that allows pets, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to see updated listings across Newfoundland and Labrador and the rest of Canada.

FAQs About Pet Policies in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals

1. Can my landlord evict me for having a pet if my lease says "no pets"?
   Yes, a landlord can serve notice if you have a pet in a rental that specifically prohibits them, unless the animal is a recognized service animal.
2. What counts as a service animal under the law?
   A service animal is one that aids someone with a recognized disability; documentation may be required, but the landlord cannot request personal medical details.
3. Can I negotiate keeping my pet if my lease says no?
   Sometimes, landlords may be open to negotiation. Always get written permission if an exception is made.
4. Who handles disputes about pets and rental agreements?
   The Residential Tenancies Board resolves most disputes, but human rights complaints may go to the Human Rights Commission.
5. Do pet fees or "pet deposits" apply?
   In Newfoundland and Labrador, extra “pet deposits” are not generally allowed.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords can ban pets in Newfoundland and Labrador rentals unless the pet is a service animal under human rights law.
• Make sure to check your lease and confirm all agreements in writing before bringing a pet into your rental.
• Disputes can be addressed through the Residential Tenancies Board or Human Rights Commission, and tenants have a right to reasonable accommodation if they rely on a service animal.

In summary, know your lease, understand the exceptions, and keep communication open with your landlord regarding pets.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Board Newfoundland and Labrador – Information, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission – Disability and accommodation questions.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador – Summary of tenant and landlord rights in the province.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Office of the Residential Tenancies Board
3. Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act - Service Animals

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