Eviction for Renovations: Tenant Rights in Newfoundland & Labrador

If your landlord in Newfoundland and Labrador has told you they need you to move out for renovations, you might be worried about what comes next. Eviction for renovations, sometimes called a “renoviction,” is regulated by law—and you have important rights during this process.

Eviction Due to Renovations: When Is It Allowed?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018^[1], a landlord can only end a tenancy for renovations or repairs in specific cases where the work requires the unit to be vacant. These rules protect tenants from unfair evictions when cosmetic or minor upgrades are not truly necessary.

• The renovations must be substantial—meaning they genuinely require your unit to be empty for construction.
• Painting, replacing appliances, or minor repairs usually do not qualify.
• The landlord must follow strict notice procedures and timelines.

For a quick overview of general rights and rules in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

How Much Notice Must a Landlord Give?

If your landlord is seeking to end your tenancy because of major renovations, they must serve you with a written notice:

• Fixed-term leases: Notice must be given at least 3 months before the end of the term.
• Month-to-month (or year-to-year) leases: At least 3 months’ notice before the effective date of eviction.

The notice must:

• Be in writing and include the reason for eviction (renovations/repairs)
• State the planned date you must move out

If you believe the notice was not properly given or the renovations are not substantial, you have the right to dispute it through the provincial tribunal (see steps below).

Do Tenants Need to Move Out? Your Right to Stay or Challenge

You do not need to move out immediately just because you receive a notice. If you disagree with the eviction, you can challenge it with the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL, which handles tenancy disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador.

If you disagree with the reason for eviction or the notice was not given correctly, apply as soon as possible to dispute the eviction. You must act quickly—deadlines may apply.

What Forms Do Tenants Use?

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12): If you want to dispute a renovation eviction, you need to complete Form 12—Application for Dispute Resolution. Submit it to Service NL with your supporting documents (such as a copy of the eviction notice). Find the official Form 12 here.
• This form is used to start a formal review. The tribunal will schedule a hearing and may decide whether your eviction is legal, or if you can stay.

Is Compensation or Financial Help Available?

Landlords are not automatically required to pay compensation for eviction due to renovations in Newfoundland and Labrador, but you can:

• Apply to reclaim your security deposit if your tenancy ends
• Ask for reimbursement of moving or related costs if the landlord is found to have evicted you without valid cause

Make sure your unit is left in good condition to maximize your chances of getting your deposit returned. For helpful advice, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Notice Periods and Your Lease

An eviction notice for renovations cannot end your lease or tenancy earlier than legally allowed. The same rules apply whether you have a written agreement or a verbal one. For more on living with a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Common Issues: What if Repairs Could Be Done with You There?

Landlords cannot ask you to leave just for convenience. If the renovations can be done safely with you living in the unit, the eviction may not be justified. This also applies if the repairs relate to health and safety: the landlord must address them, but they must follow the legal process if asking you to move out. For more on this topic, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Your Next Steps: After Receiving a Renovation Eviction Notice

Here’s what to do if you get an eviction notice for renovations:

• Carefully read the notice. Note the date and reason.
• If you suspect the notice is invalid or you disagree, do not move out until you consider your options.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Section for guidance.
• File an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12) if you wish to challenge the eviction.
• Document all communications and keep copies of forms and notices.

Taking action quickly is key. There are strict deadlines for disputes, so do not delay if you plan to challenge the eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord evict me just to increase the rent after renovations?
   Landlords must follow the law regarding rent increases and evictions. They cannot evict simply to re-rent at a higher price. All evictions for renovations must use valid reasons and legal notice periods.
2. How soon do I have to move after a renovation eviction notice?
   You must receive at least three months’ written notice unless your lease agreement specifically allows otherwise.
3. Is the landlord required to help find me another place?
   There is no legal requirement for the landlord to help find substitute housing, but some may choose to assist or provide letters of reference.
4. What if I believe my landlord is not being honest about the renovations?
   If you suspect the reason for eviction is not genuine, you can challenge it with the Residential Tenancies Section using Form 12.
5. Will I lose my security deposit if I am evicted for renovations?
   No, your deposit should be returned as long as you meet your responsibilities and leave the unit in good condition.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your landlord can only evict you for substantial renovations, and they must provide three months’ notice.
• You have the right to dispute eviction with the Residential Tenancies Section using Form 12.
• Compensation is not automatic, so ensure you collect all evidence and follow proper steps to protect your interests.

Remember, you do not need to move out unless your landlord has followed all legal steps for evicting tenants for renovations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL) – Official provincial agency for inquiries and dispute resolution
• Phone: 709-729-2608 (St. John’s area); 1-877-829-2608 (toll-free)
• Form 12 and other tenancy forms: Official forms download page
• General advice: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador) – Full text of the legislation
2. Service NL – Residential Tenancies Section
3. Official Provincial Tenancy Forms (including Form 12)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy