An out-of-service elevator can disrupt daily life, especially for renters who depend on it for accessibility, groceries, or carrying children. In Newfoundland and Labrador tenants have rights when common building systems fail, and landlords must take reasonable steps to repair and provide safe access. This article explains what to do when an elevator stops working: how to report the issue, document problems, request temporary accommodations, and when to involve the provincial tribunal. Practical steps cover timelines, required forms, and examples of evidence that help requests for repairs or compensation. If you rely on the elevator for mobility, learn how to ask for faster service and where to file an application to seek official orders or rent adjustments.
What the law says in Newfoundland and Labrador
Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining common areas and essential services, including elevators. The provincial body that handles disputes and orders is the Residential Tenancies Board (Residential Tenancies Board)[1], and disputes are decided under applicable provincial tenancy legislation (Residential Tenancies Act)[2]. If an elevator outage affects safety or accessibility, prompt repair is expected and tenants may request remedies through the board.
What to do first
- Report the outage to your landlord or property manager immediately and note the time and date.
- Send a written request for repair (email or text) so there is a record you asked for service.
- Keep photos, videos and logs of missed service or access problems as evidence.
- Ask the landlord for temporary accommodations if you have mobility needs or the outage is prolonged.
You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you must seek temporary housing during a prolonged outage.
When to escalate
If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Board for an order to force repairs or reduce rent.[1] Include copies of your written requests and evidence when you apply to speed the review.
Possible remedies and compensation
- You may be eligible for a rent reduction for the period the elevator was unusable.
- Apply to the tribunal using the official application form and explain the impact on your daily life.
- If you feel safety standards are breached, report hazards to municipal building services as well.
Accessibility and tenants with disabilities
Tenants who rely on elevators for mobility should request priority repairs and reasonable accommodations, and note any health impacts in applications or complaints.
Internal resources
For guidance on emergency repairs see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and to review local rights read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
FAQ
- How long should a landlord take to fix an elevator?
- Landlords must act within a reasonable time; what is reasonable depends on safety risk and availability of parts or contractors.
- Can I withhold rent if the elevator is out of service?
- Do not withhold rent without legal advice; you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Board for a rent reduction instead.
- What evidence helps my complaint?
- Dates of communication, photos or videos, witness notes and records of lost access or extra costs are most useful.
How-To
- Report the outage to your landlord immediately and request written confirmation.
- Document the problem with photos, times and any impacts on health or access.
- Send a formal application to the Residential Tenancies Board if repairs are not completed within a reasonable time.[1]
- Ask for temporary reasonable accommodations or alternative access for tenants with mobility needs.
- Keep receipts for extra costs and request a rent adjustment or compensation through the tribunal.
Key Takeaways
- Report elevator outages in writing and keep dated evidence.
- Apply to the provincial tribunal if repairs are unreasonably delayed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board
- Residential Tenancies Act (legislation)
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador tenant resources
