Fire Safety Rules Every Landlord Must Follow in Newfoundland and Labrador

Fire safety is a top priority for renters in Newfoundland and Labrador. Strict rules ensure that landlords provide safe living spaces by meeting provincial fire safety standards. Knowing these rules will empower you to protect yourself and your loved ones in your home, and help you understand what to do if your landlord isn’t meeting their obligations.

What Are Landlords Required to Do for Fire Safety?

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador are legally obligated to follow several fire safety requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 and the Fire Prevention Act, 1991.^[1][2] These rules are designed to protect your health and well-being throughout your tenancy.

• Smoke Alarms: Landlords must install working smoke alarms in every unit. There should be at least one smoke alarm on each floor, and outside each sleeping area. Alarms must be properly maintained and replaced when required by manufacturer’s instructions.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors: If your rental contains a fuel-burning appliance (like a furnace or gas stove), fireplace, or attached garage, a working CO detector is required near sleeping areas.
• Fire Extinguishers and Exits: Multi-unit buildings usually require extinguishers in hallways and common areas. Fire exits and escape routes must always be clear and accessible.
• Electrical Safety: Wiring and electrical components must be safe and meet all municipal code standards. Faulty wiring is a significant fire hazard and must be repaired promptly.
• Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for regular inspections and maintenance of all fire safety equipment. Tenants should notify landlords promptly of any issues with alarms or detectors.

These obligations are not optional—failing to meet them is a serious breach of landlord responsibilities.

Fire Safety During the Start of Your Tenancy

It is a good idea to verify that your unit meets fire safety standards when you first move in. If possible, conduct a thorough inspection. For more detail, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Your Rights and How to Respond to Unsafe Conditions

If you discover that fire safety equipment is missing, not working, or outdated, you have the right to request repairs or installation. Under the law, it is your landlord’s responsibility to fix these issues promptly. You are encouraged to submit requests in writing and keep a copy for your records.

If Repairs Are Not Made

If your landlord does not address fire safety hazards after you’ve reported them, you can file a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Section of Digital Government and Service NL. This is the official board for housing disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador.

• Learn more or begin your application at the Residential Tenancies Section website.

Provincial Forms for Fire Safety Issues

If you need to pursue action due to unresolved safety concerns, you may use:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12): Use this form to report serious concerns—such as non-functional smoke alarms or repeated safety violations—when your landlord has not responded after reasonable notice.
  Example: If you informed your landlord in writing that smoke alarms don't work and they failed to act within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., a few days for urgent repairs), submit Form 12.
• Download Form 12 and detailed instructions from the official government site.

Key Legislation in Newfoundland and Labrador

Landlord fire safety duties are primarily set out in:

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2018
• Fire Prevention Act, 1991

For housing standards and broader tenant protections, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Fire Safety and Apartment Buildings

In multi-unit buildings, landlords must ensure all building-wide systems (fire alarms, sprinklers, emergency exit lighting) are maintained and routinely tested. Tenants should familiarize themselves with posted fire escape plans and emergency exits.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Safety in Rentals

1. What should I do if my smoke alarm doesn’t work?
   Notify your landlord in writing right away and request immediate repair or replacement. If your rental unit still is not made safe, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Section to resolve the issue.
2. Are landlords responsible for replacing batteries in smoke alarms?
   Typically, landlords must ensure alarms are working when you move in. After that, tenants may be responsible for replacing batteries, but landlords must fix alarms if they remain faulty after battery replacement.
3. Can a landlord evict me for asking for fire safety repairs?
   No. It is illegal for a landlord to retaliate against tenants for making legitimate requests regarding safety.
4. How often should smoke alarms be tested in a rental unit?
   Best practice is at least monthly. Landlords must test and maintain alarms between tenancies and during scheduled inspections.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

When it comes to fire safety:

• Landlords have strict legal requirements to provide working fire safety equipment and safe exits in all rentals.
• Tenants play a key role by reporting hazards and cooperating during safety inspections.
• If your landlord does not address safety problems after being notified, you can seek support from the province’s Residential Tenancies Section.

Knowing and exercising your rights protects everyone in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, Digital Government and Service NL: Official website and contact for tenancy disputes and applications, including fire safety issues.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation: For additional tenant support and public housing inquiries, visit NL Housing.
• Emergency (Fire, Police, Ambulance): Call 911 if you face immediate danger or life safety hazards in your rental.
• For more province-specific rental information, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act, 2018" (NL), Residential Tenancies Act, 2018
2. "Fire Prevention Act, 1991" (NL), Fire Prevention Act, 1991 (PDF)
3. "Residential Tenancies Section, Digital Government and Service NL," Official Government Website

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