How much notice do I need to give my landlord in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Most tenants must give one full month's written notice for month-to-month tenancies. Fixed-term leases require notice before the lease ends, following the rental agreement.

Can I end my lease early if I have accessibility needs or am a victim of family violence?

Yes, exceptions exist for accessibility needs and family violence. Shortened notice periods apply, but you must use the proper forms and provide supporting documentation.

What happens if I don't give proper notice?

You could lose your security deposit and may owe extra rent if you move out without giving the required written notice.

How do I get my security deposit back?

After a successful move-out inspection and settling any outstanding rent or damages, your deposit should be refunded with interest as required by law.

Where can I get help with a tenancy dispute?

Contact the Residential Tenancies Office Newfoundland and Labrador for guidance, forms, and dispute resolution services.

How Tenants Can Give Proper Notice to End Tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador

Discrimination & Accessibility Newfoundland and Labrador published June 13, 2025

If you’re a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador thinking about moving out, it’s important to know exactly how to give proper notice to end your tenancy. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid unnecessary stress, avoid disputes, and get your security deposit back promptly. This guide explains notice periods, official forms, and what steps to follow according to provincial tenancy law.

When Can a Tenant End Their Tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Tenants can end a rental agreement by giving written notice to the landlord. The correct notice period depends on whether your agreement is fixed-term (has a specific end date) or month-to-month (periodic), and whether there are special circumstances such as family violence or accessibility needs.

Notice Periods Required

Month-to-month tenancy: At least one full month's written notice is required.
Fixed-term lease: Generally, you cannot end the tenancy before the term ends unless you and your landlord both agree or special conditions apply. Otherwise, you must give notice to end the tenancy at the end of the term.
Special circumstances: Survivors of family violence or those facing accessibility issues may qualify for shorter notice periods as outlined in the legislation.

Make sure your notice is in writing and delivered to the landlord personally, by mail, or another method specified in your lease.

Which Forms Should Tenants Use?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenants use official forms to end their tenancy properly. The key form is:

Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy (Form N4): Download from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.
- When to use it: If you are on a month-to-month lease and want to move out, or if you’re ending a fixed-term lease at its end date.
- How to use: Fill in all required fields, state your move-out date, and deliver the form to your landlord. For example, if you wish to move out on June 30, provide the form no later than May 31.

If you are leaving early because of family violence or need for accessibility, consult the official forms directory for specific forms and additional requirements, such as supporting documentation.

What Happens After You Give Notice?

Once you give proper notice, your lease will end on the date stated in your written notice, provided it meets the required notice period and you have fulfilled other obligations under the lease.

Continue paying rent until your tenancy ends
Arrange a move-out inspection with your landlord
Leave the unit clean and free of your belongings
Return all keys

This process will help ensure you receive your security deposit back. For more details, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Official Tribunal and Legislation

Residential tenancy disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office. The key legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.

Ending Your Rental Agreement Early

If you need to move out before your lease ends, you must either:

Negotiate with your landlord for an early end (get any agreement in writing)
Qualify for a special exception (e.g., family violence, disability-related reasons)

Ending a lease without proper notice can result in losing part of your security deposit or being responsible for additional rent. It's always best to understand your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador before making any decisions.

Tip: Give your notice in writing and keep a dated copy for your records. If it’s ever disputed, you’ll have proof that you followed the law.

If you plan to move, you may find it helpful to review How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant and The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out for practical checklists and common concerns.

If you’re ready for a new home or want to compare options, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Notice to End Tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador

How much notice do I need to give my landlord in Newfoundland and Labrador?
Most tenants must give one full month's written notice before ending a month-to-month tenancy. For fixed-term leases, notice is required before the lease ends unless stated otherwise in the agreement.
Can I end my lease early if I have accessibility needs or am a victim of family violence?
Yes, the law allows special exceptions for both family violence and certain accessibility-related reasons. You can apply for a shortened notice period using the appropriate official forms and supporting documents.
What happens if I don't give proper notice?
If you move out without proper notice, you could lose some or all of your security deposit and may be liable for additional rent until the landlord finds a new tenant.
How do I get my security deposit back?
After a final inspection and if there are no damages or outstanding rent, your deposit should be returned to you, with interest. Read more in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
Where can I get help with a dispute?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office or a local tenant association for guidance and help resolving disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

To end your tenancy legally and smoothly in Newfoundland and Labrador, remember these points:

Give written notice using the official form and follow the required notice period
Know your rights if you need to end your lease early due to special circumstances
Understand your responsibilities to help recover your security deposit and avoid disputes

A little preparation and good communication can make your move-out process trouble-free.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Office Newfoundland and Labrador: Information, forms, landlord-tenant dispute resolution
General enquiries: 1-877-829-2608 (Toll Free)
Download all tenancy forms: Landlord and Tenant Forms Directory
Review your legal rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (full text)
Residential Tenancies Office NL – official website
Notice to Terminate Form (N4) – official form
Landlord and Tenant Forms – official directory