Challenge an Illegal Rent Increase in Newfoundland and Labrador

Rent & Deposits Newfoundland and Labrador published June 13, 2025 Flag of Newfoundland and Labrador

Facing an unexpected or unlawful rent increase is stressful, but tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have strong legal protections and clear steps for recourse. This guide walks you through what qualifies as an illegal rent increase, your rights, and how you can challenge unlawful changes using official processes and forms.

Understanding Rent Increases in Newfoundland and Labrador

In this province, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 sets out the requirements landlords must follow when increasing rent. Some key points include:

  • Landlords must provide three months' written notice before any rent increase.
  • Rent can only be increased once every 12 months for the same tenant.
  • There is currently no rent control or cap on the increase amount, but the increase must still meet notice and frequency rules.

If your landlord raises rent without proper notice, or tries to increase more than once in a 12-month period, this may be considered an illegal rent increase. Learn more general details in Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Makes a Rent Increase Illegal?

  • No three months’ written notice given
  • Rent increased more than once within 12 months
  • Increase applies retroactively (for a lease period that has already passed)

Always check your notice carefully. Even if the amount seems high, the notice and timing are what make it legal or not.

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Your Rights: How to Respond to an Illegal Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase is illegal:

  • Do not pay the increased amount until the issue is resolved.
  • Retain all written communication from your landlord regarding the increase.
  • Seek clarification in writing from the landlord outlining the rent increase details (amount, date, notice given).
If in doubt, always communicate in writing. This creates a record of all discussions and protects your interests if you need to file a complaint.

Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies

The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) is the official body overseeing landlord-tenant matters in Newfoundland and Labrador. You can visit the RTO website here for forms, guides, and contact info.[1]

How to Challenge an Illegal Increase: Step-by-Step

Tenants have a right to dispute an illegal rent increase. Here’s how to begin:

  • Gather all supporting documents (your lease, notice of increase, emails with the landlord).
  • Confirm that the increase violates the notice period or frequency rules.
  • Speak with your landlord first to try and resolve the issue informally. If this fails, proceed to file a formal application.

Submitting an Application to the RTO

To challenge a rent increase, submit the official form:

Practical example: If your landlord gives you only two months’ notice for a rent increase, you can use Form 6 to apply to the RTO for a decision declaring the increase void. Attach a copy of the notice received as evidence. The form is submitted by mail, email, or in-person at any RTO office.

Attending a Hearing

Once your application is received, the RTO may schedule a hearing. Both tenant and landlord have a chance to present evidence. The RTO will make a binding decision about whether the increase is valid.

For broader information about tenant and landlord responsibilities, the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained guide is a helpful resource.

Next Steps After a Decision

If the RTO finds in your favour, you:

  • Continue paying your original (pre-increase) rent.
  • May recover any overpaid rent if you already paid the higher amount.
  • Should receive written confirmation of the outcome from the RTO.

If the landlord persists with the increase after an RTO decision, let the RTO know—further penalties may apply.

For a full overview of your legal protections as a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord increase rent more than once a year in Newfoundland and Labrador? No. The law only permits rent to be increased once every 12 months for the same tenant, regardless of lease type.
  2. What happens if I already paid the illegal rent increase? You can ask the RTO to order your landlord to refund the overpayment if the increase is declared illegal.
  3. Do landlords need to use a specific form for rent increases? No specific form is required, but the notice must be in writing and include the new amount and start date, issued at least three months before it takes effect.
  4. What if my landlord tries to evict me for disputing a rent increase? It is illegal for landlords to retaliate or threaten eviction for exercising your legal rights. Contact the RTO for help if you feel threatened.
  5. Where can I get support or advice before filing a complaint? Tenants can contact the RTO, local tenant advocacy organizations, or seek help from a legal aid clinic specializing in housing matters.

Key Takeaways

  • Illegal rent increases often result from inadequate notice or violation of frequency rules, not the amount charged.
  • Tenants should never pay an unlawful increase and can dispute it quickly with the RTO using Form 6.
  • Protect yourself by documenting all interactions and using the official process to resolve disputes.

With clear action steps, most illegal rent increases can be successfully challenged.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Read the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 in full
  2. Official site: Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) Newfoundland and Labrador
  3. Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 6) – Download from Gov NL

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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