Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador often wonder who must keep hallways, entryways, stairwells and other common areas safe and clean. This guide explains renter and landlord responsibilities for maintenance and repairs in multi-unit buildings, how to document problems, and the steps to request fixes or escalate to the official tribunal. It uses plain language so renters can understand deadlines, required forms, and when to expect action. If you share a building, knowing these rules helps protect your health, safety and quiet enjoyment while keeping communication clear and effective with your landlord and building manager.
Who is responsible for common areas?
In most multi-unit buildings the landlord or property owner is responsible for maintaining common areas so they are safe and usable. That includes lighting in hallways, clearing snow from shared walkways, keeping stairs in repair and ensuring shared heating and ventilation work properly. Tenants generally must keep their own unit in good condition and avoid causing damage to shared spaces. If a repair affects habitability — like a broken main water line or dangerous stair — the landlord should arrange timely repairs.
How to report common-area problems
Start by notifying your landlord or property manager in writing, describing the issue, location and any safety risk. Keep a dated copy of the message and any replies. If the landlord schedules repairs, ask for the expected timeframe and confirm whether access to your unit or shared spaces will be required.
- Report urgent hazards like exposed wiring or broken railings immediately and follow up in writing.
- Take photos or video of the problem and keep a log of when you reported it and any responses.
- Request written confirmation of repair timelines and any temporary safety measures put in place.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies process
If the landlord does not address a legitimate maintenance issue within a reasonable time, tenants can apply to the provincial residential tenancies body for a remedy. The board handles disputes and can order repairs, rent abatement or other remedies depending on the facts.[1] You should explain the problem, attach evidence and show that you first asked the landlord to fix it.
Key forms and legislation
Know the official documents you may need. The most relevant legislation is the provincial Residential Tenancies Act, which explains rights and remedies under law.[2] To start a dispute you usually use the board's application form or an official complaint form; the form explains what information and evidence to provide and how filings are served.[3]
Practical examples
If a shared hallway light burns out and the landlord does not replace it within a few days, report it in writing and include a photo of the burned-out fixture. If snow and ice are not cleared from building entrances after a storm and someone slips, notify the landlord and document the hazard, then consider an application to the board if the owner fails to act.
Tenant and landlord responsibilities
Both parties have duties: landlords must maintain common areas and comply with safety standards; tenants must not damage shared spaces and should follow building rules about cleanliness and use. For more about what each party must do during a tenancy, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Routine repairs vs. emergency repairs
- Emergency repairs: hazards that threaten health or safety should be reported immediately and demand a fast response.
- Routine repairs: non-urgent issues should be reported in writing and allow the landlord reasonable time to respond.
When to get legal help
If a building-wide hazard persists or the landlord retaliates after you report a problem, seek help from tenant services or file with the residential tenancies body. You can also consult community legal clinics for low-cost advice before starting a formal application.
FAQ
- Who pays for maintenance of hallways and shared stairwells?
- The landlord or property owner is generally responsible for maintaining common areas, including hallways and stairwells; tenants must avoid causing damage and follow building rules.
- What if the landlord does not fix a dangerous common-area problem?
- Document the issue, notify the landlord in writing, and if they do not act within a reasonable time you can apply to the provincial residential tenancies board for orders or remedies.
- Can I withhold rent if common areas are not maintained?
- Withholding rent is risky and not usually recommended; instead follow the formal complaint process and use the tribunal application for remedies such as repairs or rent reduction.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos or video and note the date and location.
- Send a written report to the landlord or property manager and keep a copy of the message and any reply.
- Allow a reasonable timeframe for repairs; ask for a timeline in writing if needed.
- If the problem is not fixed, file an application with the residential tenancies board including evidence and copies of your communications.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords are usually responsible for keeping common areas safe and functional.
- Keep clear, dated records and photos when reporting maintenance problems.
- If repairs are not made, use the residential tenancies process to seek remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
- Application form for the Residential Tenancies process
