Families who rent in Newfoundland and Labrador sometimes face discrimination when applying for housing, from being refused units to being treated differently after signing a lease. This guide explains common types of family-related discrimination, how tenants can document incidents, and the practical steps to file a complaint with provincial bodies. It covers what evidence helps, time limits to watch for, and what to expect in hearings or mediation. If you are a renter worried about unfair treatment because you have children, are pregnant, or care for family members, this information will help you understand your rights and the supports available to resolve the issue.
Types of family discrimination to watch for
- Refusal to rent or discriminatory screening because you have children or dependants.
- Different lease terms, higher fees, or additional rules applied only to families.
- Threats of eviction, harassment, or pressured lease terminations targeting familial status.
- Invasion of privacy or unequal entry practices affecting families with children or caregivers.
Gather evidence and build a timeline
Good documentation makes complaints clearer and stronger. Keep copies of communications, advertisements, and any notes about in-person conversations. Be specific about dates, who said what, and any witnesses.
- Keep emails, texts, ads, and screenshots that show refusal or different treatment.
- Collect witness names and short written statements from neighbours or professionals.
- Note dates and times for each incident to build a clear timeline.
Where to file: Residential Tenancies vs Human Rights
In Newfoundland and Labrador some housing problems are handled by the residential tenancies system while discrimination on the basis of family status can also be raised with the provincial human rights body. If the issue is primarily a lease, rent or eviction matter, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal is often the right place to start[1]. If you believe you were treated differently because you are a family, pregnant, or a caregiver, you can also file a complaint with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission[2]. Both routes can sometimes be used together depending on the facts.
For practical help on rights and next steps, see the internal guide Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador and the step-by-step page How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide.
To search available rentals while you look for alternatives, try Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
Official forms you may need and when to use them
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (application form) — used when the dispute is about rent, eviction or lease terms; for example, if a landlord tries to evict a family without lawful reason, you would file this application with the tribunal to seek a hearing and a remedy.
Residential Tenancies information and forms[1] - Human Rights complaint form — used when you believe you faced discrimination because of family status; for example, if an ad or landlord explicitly refuses families with children, you would file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission to ask for investigation and remedies.
Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission complaint forms[2]
FAQ
- Can families file a complaint about being denied housing?
- Yes. Tenants can file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for lease-related issues and with the Human Rights Commission for discrimination based on family status.
- What remedies can a tenant expect if discrimination is proven?
- Possible remedies include orders to stop the discrimination, compensation for losses, and changes to landlord practices depending on the decision of the tribunal or commission.
- How long do I have to file a complaint?
- Deadlines vary by the type of complaint: check timelines for both the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and Human Rights Commission and start promptly when possible.
How-To
- Gather evidence: collect messages, photos, ads, and witness names to show what happened.
- Check deadlines: confirm filing time limits for tenancy applications and human rights complaints.
- Complete the correct form: fill the Residential Tenancies application or the Human Rights complaint form, following the instructions on the official site.
- Submit and prepare for a hearing or mediation: bring your timeline and evidence, and be ready to explain the impact of the discrimination.
- Seek help and follow up: contact tenant clinics, legal aid, or community services if you need representation or support.
Key Takeaways
- Document every incident with dates, copies of messages, and witness names.
- Choose the right route: tenancy tribunal for lease issues or human rights commission for discrimination.
- Get help early from tenant clinics or legal support to meet deadlines and prepare evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador - Justice and Public Safety
- Residential Tenancies information - Service NL
- Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission
