For tenants and renters in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding past eviction moratoria helps with current rights and how to respond to notices or applications. This article explains when moratoria were announced and lifted, what common landlord and tenant obligations remained in force, and practical steps renters can take if they face eviction or need to access official processes in the province. It uses plain language to describe notices, required forms, tribunal contacts, and options for finding housing after a dispute. The aim is to give renters clear, evidence-based steps and links to the official resources you may need.
Background
During public emergencies, provincial governments sometimes pause or limit evictions to protect public health. In Newfoundland and Labrador this produced short-term moratoria and later targeted restrictions tied to COVID-19 waves and policy updates. These measures affected when landlords could begin eviction processes or obtain enforcement, but other obligations, like paying rent or maintaining habitability, frequently continued to apply.
How the moratoria worked and what changed
- Emergency announcements set effective dates and end dates for moratoria and exceptions for urgent safety issues.
- Some types of eviction applications continued to be accepted by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1] for serious matters, including safety and illegal activity.
- Landlords were often required to use specific forms when serving notices or starting Tribunal applications; those forms and filing instructions are on official pages.[3]
- Deadlines to respond, file documents, or appear at hearings were typically enforced even during moratoria, so tenants needed to act within timeframes.
What tenants should do if they received a notice during a moratorium
First, read the notice carefully. Check the reason for eviction and any deadlines. Gather your lease, payment records, photos or messages that relate to the issue, and plan to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or a tenant help service for guidance. If you need to file a response or an application, follow the official filing instructions and form requirements to preserve your rights.[3]
Key official sources, legislation and forms
The provincial body that hears residential tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1]. Relevant legislation is the provincial Residential Tenancies Act[2]. Common documents include official application forms to start or respond to Tribunal claims and any specified notice templates landlords must use; check the official forms page for names and numbers and follow the examples there.
Example forms tenants often use
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (application form): used when a tenant needs the Tribunal to resolve a dispute, for example to contest an eviction that proceeded during or after a moratorium.[3]
- Response or counter-application form: used when a tenant responds to a landlord application, for example to argue the eviction is improper or request compensation for habitability issues.[3]
Finding housing after a dispute
If you need to look for alternate housing, consider using an online map tool to compare listings and neighbourhoods. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you search available rentals while you prepare documentation or attend hearings.
Also review provincial guidance on rent arrears repayment plans and local community supports if you face short-term displacement.
FAQ
- Were all evictions stopped during the moratoria?
- No. Many moratoria paused certain enforcement steps but allowed urgent evictions (safety, illegal activity) through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1] or other enforcement where necessary.
- Do I still owe rent that accrued during a moratorium?
- Yes. A moratorium typically pauses eviction enforcement but does not cancel rent owed; tenants should review payment records and discuss options with the landlord or Tribunal.
- How do I file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal?
- Follow the official application form and filing instructions on the provincial forms page; include evidence like photos, receipts, and communications to support your claim.[3]
How-To
- Check any eviction notice immediately and note deadlines and the stated reason for eviction.
- Gather evidence: lease, payment receipts, photos, messages, and a timeline of events.
- Complete and submit the correct Tribunal application or response form following the official instructions[3].
- Attend the hearing or mediation, present your documents, and ask for time to arrange housing if necessary.
Key Takeaways
- Moratoria often pause enforcement but do not cancel rent owing, so document payments.
- Use the official forms and follow filing steps to protect your rights with the Tribunal.
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or tenant help services early when you receive a notice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act - Newfoundland and Labrador
- Official Tribunal forms and filing instructions - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
