Can Landlords Restrict Visitors in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Knowing your rights around overnight guests and visitors is key for tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador. Many renters worry: can their landlord limit how often friends or family visit? This article explains the law, practical scenarios, and what to do if issues arise with your landlord regarding visitors.

Visitor Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 ^[1] sets the rules for landlords and tenants. It does not grant landlords the general right to restrict tenants’ reasonable ability to have guests, as long as those guests do not disturb others, break house rules, or violate the law.

• Tenants have the right to reasonable privacy and enjoyment of their rental home, including having visitors or overnight guests.
• Landlords cannot add lease terms that unfairly limit your right to have visitors — such rules are generally unenforceable under the Act.
• However, if your guests disturb others, stay so often that they effectively move in, or cause damage, the landlord can take action.

If your lease attempts to outright ban all visitors or put excessive limits (like a fixed number of nights per month), you have the right to challenge those terms.

When Can Landlords Object to Tenants' Guests?

A landlord in Newfoundland and Labrador may raise concerns if:

• Your guest is disruptive or damaging the property
• The guest has moved in without being added to the lease
• There is evidence of illegal activity or excessive noise

If a serious issue arises, the landlord must follow the dispute process set out by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), which manages tenant-landlord disputes in the province.

Residential Tenancies Act, Key Forms, and How to Respond

If a landlord believes a guest has become an unauthorized occupant, they may serve a written notice. If the situation escalates, landlords or tenants may need to use one of these forms:

• Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement (Form 6): Form 6 (Landlord use) is provided if there is a breach such as unauthorized occupancy. For example, if a guest is living in the unit without the landlord’s consent/approval, the landlord may use this form to serve notice. Tenants can respond by correcting the issue or applying to challenge the termination.
• Application to Director (Form 12): Form 12 lets either party apply to the RTO for a dispute resolution if there’s a disagreement about guest rights, lease terms, or alleged violations. A tenant challenging unreasonable visitor restrictions would use this form.

Always keep a copy of any notice sent or received. If your landlord gives you a termination notice for guests, respond in writing and seek help if needed.

Your Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

While guests are allowed, tenants remain responsible for their visitors’ actions. This means:

• Paying for any damages caused by guests
• Ensuring guests follow building rules and do not disturb other tenants
• Not using the unit for short-term rental (like Airbnb) without landlord permission

For a full overview of both tenant and landlord obligations in the province, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

When Does a Visitor Become an Unauthorized Occupant?

A guest is generally considered an occupant if they move in — staying permanently, receiving mail, or contributing to rent. The Residential Tenancies Act does not specify an exact number of nights, so use common sense and communicate openly with your landlord if you have a long-term guest.

If uncertainty arises, you and your landlord can seek mediation through the RTO instead of acting unilaterally.

What to Do if You Face Visitor Restrictions

If your landlord tries to enforce unlawful visitor bans or gives you notice:

1. Review your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador to understand the law.
2. Record all communications in writing.
3. Respond in writing to the landlord, politely explaining your understanding of your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.
4. If unresolved, complete Application to Director (Form 12) and submit it to the RTO, describing your situation and seeking a resolution.
5. If served with termination, respond within the time limit and consider seeking advice from a tenant support centre.

Visiting Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings can also help if you’re searching for a new place that meets your needs.

FAQ: Answers to Tenant Questions About Visitors

1. Can my landlord limit how often I have overnight guests?
   No, unless your guests create problems (noise, damage, etc.). General guest bans are unenforceable under provincial law.
2. What happens if I have a long-term guest?
   A visitor who moves in and becomes an occupant may need to be added to the lease. If you’re unsure, discuss with your landlord and keep records.
3. Can a landlord evict me if my visitors break house rules?
   If guests damage property or disturb others, you could be held liable. Repeated problems might result in a written warning or (if serious) a notice of termination, but you have the right to challenge it.
4. Where do I go if my landlord and I disagree about visitors?
   Either party can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your landlord cannot place blanket restrictions on normal visitor privileges.
• You are responsible for your guests’ conduct while in your rental.
• All parties can file with the RTO if disputes about visitors arise.

Staying informed, keeping written records, and using official channels will help you navigate any disagreements about visitors fairly and confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Submit disputes, get forms, and official guides
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 in full
• NL Tenant support: Contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation for rental support services.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Full text of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018
2. Residential Tenancies Office, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Rental Dispute Resolution Services and Forms

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