If you are a tenant who believes you experienced discrimination in housing in Newfoundland and Labrador, this plain-language guide explains how to file a human rights complaint, what evidence to gather, and where to find forms and support. It is written for renters and tenants who face discrimination because of factors such as disability, family status, sex, race or other protected grounds. You do not need a lawyer to start a complaint, but following the correct steps and submitting the official complaint form will keep your case on time and complete. Below you will find practical examples, timelines, and links to the provincial Human Rights Commission and tenancy resources to help you move forward.
What is a human rights complaint in housing?
A human rights complaint says a landlord or housing provider treated you differently because of a protected ground under provincial law. Examples include refusing service because of disability, denying a request for a reasonable accommodation, or making discriminatory remarks during tenancy decisions. The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission is the provincial office that accepts and investigates complaints[1]. The governing law is the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act[2].
When to consider filing
- If the conduct relates to a protected ground and affected your access to tenancy or housing.
- If you are inside a deadline or the event occurred recently, start gathering records right away.
- If you already tried to resolve the issue with the landlord but it remained unresolved.
What to prepare before filing
Organizing clear evidence and a concise summary helps the Commission assess your complaint.
- Documented evidence: emails, texts, photos, voicemails, witness names and dates that show the discriminatory conduct.
- Records of attempts to resolve the problem: dated messages, repair requests, or formal notices.
- Financial records if relevant: rent receipts, deposit records, or costs you incurred because of the discrimination.
How to file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission
Follow the steps on the Commission website to complete and submit the official complaint form. The typical workflow is: complete the complaint form, attach copies of your evidence, and submit by mail, email or in person as allowed by the Commission. The Commission will then assess whether the complaint falls under its jurisdiction and may offer mediation or investigate further.
Official complaint form: complete the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Complaint Form and include copies of supporting documents. For a tenant, an example would be attaching dated emails in which a landlord refused a reasonable accommodation for a disability and a rent receipt showing tenancy dates[3].
What happens after you file
- The Commission screens the complaint for jurisdiction and may contact you for more information or offer mediation.
- If mediation fails or is unsuitable, the matter can move to a formal investigation or Board of Inquiry process.
- Outcomes can include voluntary settlements, recommendations, or orders that address the discriminatory conduct.
Preparing for a hearing or investigation
If your complaint advances, prepare an organized file of copies (not originals) of all evidence, a short written timeline, and a list of witness contact details. If you cannot attend a scheduled meeting or hearing, inform the Commission as soon as possible.
Related tenant resources
For general tenant rights and guidance about common tenancy problems, see the provincial overview Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador and practical complaint-handling tips in How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide. If you are looking for housing while planning next steps, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can I file a human rights complaint myself or do I need a lawyer?
- You can file a complaint yourself; the Commission accepts complaints from individuals and will guide you through the process, though you may choose a lawyer or advocate for representation.
- How long does the Commission take to respond after I submit a complaint?
- Initial screening timelines vary, but the Commission will usually acknowledge receipt and may ask for more information; respond quickly to avoid delay.
- What remedies can the Commission order if my complaint is proven?
- Possible remedies include apologies, policy changes, compensation for losses, or orders to stop discriminatory practices, depending on the case.
How-To
- Gather clear evidence: save emails, photos, messages and note dates and witness names.
- Complete the official complaint form, attaching copies of your evidence and a concise timeline.
- Submit the form to the Human Rights Commission by the accepted method and keep proof of submission.
- Respond to any Commission requests for more information or offers to mediate.
- Prepare for investigation or hearing by organizing documents and lining up witnesses if needed.
- Follow up on outcomes, and if ordered remedies are not implemented, contact the Commission for enforcement guidance.
Help and Support / Resources
- Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission — Complaints and contact
- Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act — Legislation
- Residential Tenancies Board — Tenancy information and dispute services
