Employment Letters and Application Rules for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Understanding the process of submitting employment letters and applications is key to securing housing in Newfoundland and Labrador. This guide explains what landlords can and cannot ask for, anti-discrimination rules, and which official forms you may encounter as a tenant.

Who Handles Tenancy Issues in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Residential tenancy matters in Newfoundland and Labrador are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Section, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. This office handles applications, disputes, and provides resources for both tenants and landlords.

Rules About Employment Letters and Rental Applications

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador commonly ask for information about your employment as part of the rental application. However, they are legally restricted from requesting certain details or using your employment status to discriminate against you.

What Can Landlords Ask For?

• Proof of income (such as recent pay stubs or a letter from your employer)
• References from a current or past employer
• Contact information for employment verification
• Consent to check credit and employment history

Landlords may not require you to provide an employment letter if you prefer to provide alternative proof of income (such as government benefits statements).

What Landlords Cannot Ask or Require (Human Rights Protections)

Landlords cannot refuse your rental application or treat you unfairly based on grounds such as:

• Race, colour, ancestry, national or ethnic origin
• Religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation
• Age, marital status, family status (including pregnancy)
• Disability or the source of lawful income (e.g., social assistance, pensions)

This protection is set out in the Human Rights Act, 2010 (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1].

Application Deposit Rules

While landlords can request a security deposit with your application, the amount is regulated. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the deposit cannot exceed three-quarters of one month's rent. For more, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens After You Apply?

If accepted, you'll be asked to sign a rental agreement. Review your rights and next steps in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

Tenants and landlords may use several official forms during the application or rental process. Here are some you should know:

• Form A: Application for Rental of Residential Premises – This form is typically used by landlords to gather applicant information. It includes sections for employment, references, and rental history. Download an example from the official government site.
• Security Deposit Receipt Form – Required when a tenant pays a deposit. Always request a completed copy for your records. See sample form here.

These forms are used during the rental application stage to ensure transparency between landlords and tenants.

Anti-Discrimination Complaint Process

If you believe your application was denied due to discrimination, you can submit a complaint using the Human Rights Complaint Form:

• Name: Human Rights Complaint Form
• Use: To file a complaint about discrimination in tenancy applications
• Find the form and instructions on the official Human Rights Commission site

Submitting this form helps start an official investigation into your complaint.

Legislation That Protects Tenants

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador) protects your right to fair rental application processes^[2]. For anti-discrimination, refer to the Human Rights Act, 2010.

Want to know more about general tenancy rights in the province? See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a detailed overview.

For tips on finding homes and apartments, check out Browse apartments for rent in Canada and explore various listings suited to your needs.

FAQ: Employment Letters, Applications, and Tenant Rights

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me if I receive government income?
   No, landlords cannot refuse your application based on source of income, such as government assistance or a pension. This is protected by provincial human rights law.
2. What proof of income should I provide if I don't have an employment letter?
   You can provide pay stubs, notice of assessment, government benefit statements, or other proof of funds instead of an employment letter.
3. Is there a limit on the security deposit when applying for a rental?
   Yes, the deposit cannot exceed three-quarters of one month's rent in Newfoundland and Labrador.
4. How do I complain if I think a landlord is discriminating against me?
   File a complaint with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission using the official complaint form linked above.
5. What happens after my application is approved?
   Once approved, you sign a rental agreement and may need to pay your deposit. Review your rights as a tenant before moving in.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, Newfoundland and Labrador: Official government information and forms
• Human Rights Complaints: Human Rights Commission complaint process
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador: Provincial fact page

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1. Human Rights Act, 2010 (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)

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