What should I do if a landlord refuses to rent to me because of my disability?

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, document the incident and file a complaint with the NL Human Rights Commission. You can also request mediation or guidance from tenant advocacy services.

Is my landlord always required to allow renovations for accessibility?

Landlords must allow reasonable accommodations, but aren’t required to make changes that cause serious cost or structural issues. Discuss your needs and propose reasonable solutions.

Can a landlord refuse a service animal if there is a “no pets” policy?

No, service animals for people with disabilities are protected by law and must be accommodated, despite “no pets” policies.

Where can I get help understanding my tenancy rights?

Visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador page for detailed guidance and links to legal resources.

What official forms are needed to file a discrimination complaint?

You need to complete the Complaint Form from the NL Human Rights Commission. Submit this with your evidence directly to the Commission.

Discrimination & Accessibility Rights for Tenants in NL

Discrimination & Accessibility Newfoundland and Labrador published July 01, 2025

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador are protected by law against discrimination and have a right to accessible rental housing. This guide helps you understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, and what you can do if you experience discrimination or need accessibility accommodations.

What Counts as Discrimination in NL Rental Housing?

Discrimination happens when a landlord treats you unfairly or denies you a rental opportunity based on your personal characteristics. In Newfoundland and Labrador, it is illegal for landlords to discriminate based on:

Race, national or ethnic origin, or colour
Religion or creed
Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
Age (except for seniors-only buildings or age-restricted housing where allowed by law)
Marital status or family status
Physical or mental disability
Source of income

These protections come from the Human Rights Act, 2010 and are also supported by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 of Newfoundland and Labrador.¹

Your Right to an Accessible Rental Home

Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation means making adjustments—like ramps or allowing a support animal—unless it would cause undue hardship to the landlord (for example, extremely high cost or major building changes).

Physical accommodations can include accessible entrances, grab bars, or parking modifications.
Non-physical accommodations might mean flexibility on rental rules, such as allowing a guide dog in a "no pets" apartment.

If you need accommodations, you should provide your landlord with written notice and, if asked, documentation (like a doctor’s note).

When You Can Request Accessibility Changes

You can ask for accommodations at any stage—when applying, before moving in, or at any time throughout your tenancy.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint in NL

If you think you have been discriminated against, you can make a formal complaint to the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.

Step 1: Gather evidence—this could be emails, rental ads, or witness accounts.
Step 2: Complete the official form: Complaint Form (NL Human Rights Commission). This form is used to launch an official investigation. Get the complaint form here.
Step 3: Submit the form online, by mail, or in person.

The Commission will review your complaint and may mediate between you and your landlord, or investigate further if needed.

What About Issues With Repairs or Unsafe Conditions?

If your landlord doesn’t provide an accessible or habitable unit, it may also be a health and safety issue. Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Important: Your Tenancy Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

For rental rules, eviction processes, and tenant obligations in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. You’ll find a clear overview of basic rights, responsibilities, and where to get additional help.

Common Scenarios of Discrimination & Accessibility Issues

Denied Rental Applications: If you’re refused a place after disclosing a disability, or your income source, your rights may be violated.
Denied Modifications: A landlord refusing to permit reasonable changes (like grab bars) if you’re willing to pay, may be breaking the law.
Eviction Threats: Threatening eviction after a request for accommodation may be discriminatory.

Tenants have the right to safe, accessible, and discrimination-free housing. If your needs are not met or your application is refused unfairly, you have options.

Where to Get More Information

See full details on tenant obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
For more accessibility support, visit the Residential Tenancies Division of NL.

If you’re looking to move or need a home that better meets your needs, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada to explore a wider range of listings with different accessibility options.

FAQs: Discrimination & Accessibility in NL Rentals

What should I do if a landlord refuses to rent to me because of my disability?
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, document the incident and file a complaint with the NL Human Rights Commission. You can also request mediation or guidance from tenant advocacy services.
Is my landlord always required to allow renovations for accessibility?
Landlords must allow reasonable accommodations, but aren’t required to make changes that cause serious cost or structural issues. Discuss your needs and propose reasonable solutions.
Can a landlord refuse a service animal if there is a “no pets” policy?
No, service animals for people with disabilities are protected by law and must be accommodated, despite “no pets” policies.
Where can I get help understanding my tenancy rights?
Visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador page for detailed guidance and links to legal resources.
What official forms are needed to file a discrimination complaint?
You need to complete the Complaint Form from the NL Human Rights Commission. Submit this with your evidence directly to the Commission.

How To: Address Discrimination & Request Accessibility in NL Rentals

How do I ask my landlord for an accessibility accommodation?
Send a written request explaining the accommodation needed, and provide supporting documentation if required. Give your landlord a reasonable amount of time to respond.
How do I file a human rights complaint?
Download, fill out, and submit the official Complaint Form to the NL Human Rights Commission with clear details and evidence.
How do I respond if a landlord refuses my request for accommodations?
Document the refusal in writing, try to resolve the issue directly, and if unsuccessful, file a formal complaint with the Commission.
How can I get legal advice about accessibility or discrimination in my tenancy?
Contact tenant resources or the Residential Tenancies Division for information and help.

Summary: Key Takeaways

Discrimination and lack of accessibility in rentals are illegal in Newfoundland and Labrador.
You have the right to request reasonable accommodations for disabilities.
Official forms and complaint help are available from the Human Rights Commission and Tenancies Division.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission: thinkhumanrights.ca
Residential Tenancies Division (Province of NL): nlat.gov.nl.ca
Complaint Form and Guides: Download official forms
Accessible Housing and Support: Contact local advocacy groups or see the government’s accessibility policy updates here.

For details, see the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL) and the Human Rights Act, 2010 (NL).