How NL Tenants Can Document Landlord Revenge Actions

If you’re renting in Newfoundland and Labrador, landlord-tenant relationships are generally respectful and protected by law. Unfortunately, some tenants face “revenge actions” after asserting their rights—such as complaining about repairs, requesting maintenance, or reporting health and safety issues. Understanding how to document these actions is crucial in protecting yourself and ensuring fair treatment under provincial laws.

What are Revenge Actions by Landlords?

"Revenge actions," also known as retaliatory actions, happen when a landlord tries to penalize a tenant for asserting their legal rights. In Newfoundland and Labrador, this can include:

• Issuing an eviction notice soon after you make a legitimate complaint or request
• Raising your rent as backlash for reporting a problem
• Refusing or delaying necessary repairs because you asserted your rights
• Unwarranted entry into your unit

Retaliation is prohibited under the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador).^[1] If you suspect retaliation, documenting everything is key to defending yourself if the situation escalates.

Recognizing and Recording Signs of Landlord Retaliation

To build a strong case with Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Tribunal, keep detailed, organized records of all interactions and incidents, including:

• Written complaints and repair requests (keep copies and note dates)
• Landlord’s responses, including texts, emails, or letters
• Notices of rent increases or eviction received soon after making a complaint
• Photographs or videos of issues in your unit, and any visible landlord actions (e.g., changing locks, disconnected utilities)
• Witness statements from neighbours or other tenants if available

Consistent documentation helps connect the dots between your trigger (report/complaint) and the landlord’s retaliatory action.

Forming Your Evidence File

When documenting, use a dedicated folder or digital file. Include:

• Chronological notes of events and conversations
• Copies of official notices (with received dates)
• Contact logs (date, time, nature of interaction)

Filing a Complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

If the retaliatory action affects your tenancy, you may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal—the official body overseeing tenancy disputes in the province.^[2]

Key forms:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12): Used to contest eviction notices, rent increases, or other actions you believe are retaliatory. Download the form (PDF). You must submit this with supporting evidence and the required fee.^[3]

Example: If you received an eviction notice a week after reporting mold, note the timeline, attach your initial complaint, and provide the notice. Submit these with Form 12 to show potential retaliation.

Next Steps After Submission

Once you’ve filed, the Tribunal will review and may schedule a hearing. You’ll need to present your documentation. For detailed information on landlord and tenant roles, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Tips for Protecting Yourself and Your Tenancy

• Communicate in writing whenever possible, especially for complaints
• Respond to official notices (eviction, rent increase, etc.) clearly and on time
• Understand your lease and the Residential Tenancies Act
• Do not stop paying rent unless directed by the Tribunal

Preparation is your strongest defense against unfair retaliation. For more information about tenant problems, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Where to Find Rental Support and More Information

Having secure housing is vital for you and your family. For trusted rental listings you can count on, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—Canada’s best rental listings platform including Newfoundland and Labrador.

For an overview of local rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What proof do I need to show landlord retaliation?
   Document everything: complaint emails, landlord’s responses, notices, and a timeline showing events. Photographs and witness statements can also help.
2. What should I do if my landlord increases my rent unfairly after a complaint?
   Keep records, check if the rent increase follows legal guidelines, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if you believe it’s retaliation.
3. Who decides disputes about landlord retaliation in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal decides rental disputes, including alleged retaliation.
4. Can my landlord evict me for making a complaint about repairs?
   No, eviction in response to a legitimate complaint is generally not allowed. If you receive a notice soon after, document the timeline and contact the Tribunal.

Key Takeaways for NL Tenants

• Careful documentation is your best defense against landlord retaliation
• Report all concerns in writing and keep copies
• Use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if you experience retaliatory actions

Staying informed and organized helps protect your rights as a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Newfoundland and Labrador (file complaints, access forms, or ask questions)
• Provincial Government Landlord and Tenant Resources
• Community Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (publiclegalinfo.com)
• Find reliable rental listings and market info at Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador) – Official Text
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Application for Dispute Resolution (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