FAQ: Tenant Rights & Responsibilities in Newfoundland and Labrador

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have important legal protections and responsibilities under provincial rental law. If you’re renting or considering a move, understanding your rights can help you resolve disputes, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure a safe living environment. This guide covers frequently asked questions and practical advice on rental deposits, repairs, rent payments, and more for Newfoundland and Labrador in 2024.

Key Tenant Rights & Responsibilities

The Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1] outlines the laws that apply to residential tenants and landlords in this province. Both parties are required to follow the Act from the day the tenancy begins until it ends.

What Are My Main Rights as a Tenant?

• The right to live in a clean, safe, and private home
• Protection from illegal eviction or unlawful entry by your landlord
• Limits on rent increases and proper notice for any change
• The right to dispute issues at the Residential Tenancies Office

What Are My Main Responsibilities?

• Pay your rent on time and in full
• Keep your rental unit reasonably clean
• Notify the landlord promptly of any damage or necessary repairs
• Respect your neighbors and comply with building rules

Frequently Asked Questions for Tenants

Can a landlord ask for a rental deposit? How much?

Yes, landlords can ask for a security deposit, but the amount cannot exceed three-quarters of the first month’s rent. For more details on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What can I do if my landlord isn’t making necessary repairs?

Landlords are legally obligated to maintain the property in a good state of repair. If repairs are delayed or ignored, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for assistance. For urgent or emergency situations (such as loss of heat in winter), see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

How do rent increases work?

Landlords must provide at least 8 weeks’ written notice before increasing rent, and increases can happen only once every 12 months. For detailed information, visit Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What forms do tenants need to use?

• Form RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution – Use this when applying to settle disputes such as rent arrears, repairs, or return of security deposit. Download the form and instructions from the official NL government site. For example, if you are not receiving your deposit after moving out, complete RTB-12 and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Form RTB-1: Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement by Tenant – Use this when you wish to give notice to end your tenancy. The amount of notice you need to give depends on the terms of your lease (typically one or two months). Forms available here.

Where can tenants get official help or file a complaint?

The Residential Tenancies Office is the official government body for housing issues between tenants and landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador. You can call, email, or submit applications online.

What happens after I sign a lease?

Both parties are legally bound by the written or verbal agreement, and your rights/responsibilities begin immediately. For what to expect next, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For more about Newfoundland and Labrador laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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1. Can I be evicted without notice? - No. Except for very limited circumstances (such as safety concerns), landlords must provide written notice before evicting a tenant. The notice period depends on the reason for eviction (commonly 10 days for non-payment of rent, 1-3 months for other reasons). If you believe your eviction is unfair, contact the Residential Tenancies Office or use Form RTB-12 to dispute it.
2. What should I do if my landlord enters my unit without permission? - In Newfoundland and Labrador, landlords generally need to provide at least 24 hours' written notice, except in emergencies. If your landlord enters unlawfully, document it and contact the Residential Tenancies Office.
3. Do I have to handle routine maintenance? - Tenants are responsible for ordinary cleanliness and reporting issues. Major repairs (like heating, plumbing, or structural problems) are the landlord’s duty. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
4. How can I get my security deposit back? - After you move out, your landlord must return your security deposit (with interest, if any), minus any approved deductions, within 15 days. If not, apply using Form RTB-12.
5. What if I need to break my lease early? - You must give proper written notice with Form RTB-1 and may be responsible for rent until a new tenant is found or the lease ends. Discuss options with your landlord and get any agreements in writing.

1. How to apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Office?
   1. Download Form RTB-12 from the official website.
   2. Fill in the form as completely as you can, providing clear details of your issue.
   3. Attach supporting documents (photos, emails, agreements as applicable).
   4. Submit by email, mail, or in person to the nearest Residential Tenancies Office. Keep copies.
   5. Wait for instructions about your hearing or next steps.
2. How to give notice if you want to end your tenancy?
   1. Check your lease for notice requirements (usually 1 or 2 months).
   2. Download and complete Form RTB-1.
   3. Give the form to your landlord in person or another agreed method.
   4. Keep a copy for your own records.
   5. Move out by the date in your notice, ensuring the unit is clean and keys are returned.
3. How to address health and safety concerns in your rental?
   1. Inform your landlord in writing, specifying the health or safety issue.
   2. Allow your landlord a reasonable time to fix it.
   3. If the issue is not addressed, contact the local environmental health office (or Residential Tenancies Office for urgent cases).
   4. Gather evidence (photos, notes) and consider applying for dispute resolution.

Summary: Understanding your tenant rights in Newfoundland and Labrador helps you avoid disputes, maintain your home, and get support when problems arise throughout your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador) – Apply for dispute resolution, forms, information, and contact details
• Official Tenancy Forms for Tenants
• Community Legal Assistance NL – Free or low-cost legal information and advocacy
• For more guidance, contact tenants’ rights organizations or your local legal aid office.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Residential Tenancies Office - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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