Landlord harassment is a serious concern for tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador. Understanding how local courts and tribunals handle harassment can empower tenants to protect their rights and seek appropriate remedies. This article highlights important legal precedents, outlines the complaint process, and explains tenant protections under the province’s legislation.
What Is Landlord Harassment?
Harassment by a landlord includes repeated or aggressive behaviour that interferes with a tenant’s right to privacy, peaceful enjoyment, or safety in their home. Examples can range from persistent unannounced visits and threats to cutting off utilities or pressuring tenants to leave.
Who Handles Tenant Harassment Cases?
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) is the official body that investigates and rules on most rental housing disputes, including landlord harassment. Claims can also be reviewed by the provincial courts, but most cases begin or are resolved through the RTO.
Important Legislation
All tenancy matters in Newfoundland and Labrador fall under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. This Act defines tenants’ and landlords’ obligations, remedies for harassment, and complaint processes.[1]
Recent and Influential Court Rulings
Recent tribunal and court decisions help clarify how harassment is handled:
- Case: Tenant v. Landlord, RTO Decision (2021): The tribunal ruled in favour of the tenant where the landlord repeatedly entered their unit without notice, threatened eviction, and interrupted utilities. The landlord was ordered to stop the behaviour and pay compensation to the tenant.
- Case: Smith v. Johnson (Provincial Court, 2020): The court found that harassing communications and intimidation by the landlord amounted to constructive eviction. The tenant was permitted to end the tenancy early with no penalty.
- Case: Doe v. Landlord (RTO, 2022): The RTO determined that repeated, unwarranted inspections, combined with threats to remove a tenant’s belongings, met the legal definition of harassment. Remedies included a fine and an order for the landlord to cease contact except in writing.
These cases show that persistent or aggressive actions by landlords have been met with clear penalties and corrective actions by tribunals and courts.
Steps to Take If You Experience Landlord Harassment
If you’re facing harassment, you can take swift action through the RTO. Here is a summary of the main steps:
- Document everything: Keep records of all incidents—include dates, times, and copies of messages.
- Communicate in writing: Whenever possible, ask the landlord to use email or written letters.
- File an official application: Submit a Tenant's Application (Form 6) to the RTO.
Form 6 – Tenant’s Application
Use this form to apply for remedies such as a stop order, compensation, or permission to end the tenancy. You can access it and submit it online or deliver it to the nearest RTO office. Download Form 6 (PDF) from the official government website.[2]
Remedies Available
If the RTO or court finds landlord harassment, tenants could be entitled to:
- Compensation for damages or lost enjoyment
- An order stopping further harassment
- Permission to end the lease early with no penalty
- Reimbursement for any costs caused by the harassment
Each case is different, so outcomes depend on the evidence and severity of the behaviour.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
It’s also important for tenants to fulfill their own obligations under the Act—such as paying rent and maintaining the property. If you have questions about everyday issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them or review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a full overview.
Where to Search for Safe and Supportive Rentals
Looking for a new place in a respectful, tenant-friendly community? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—a trusted source for secure and verified rental listings from coast to coast.
More on Your Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
For a comprehensive overview of your local protections and info on processes like rent increases and evictions, please visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What qualifies as landlord harassment in Newfoundland and Labrador?
Actions such as repeated unannounced entries, threats, intimidation, or interfering with your basic utilities are considered harassment under the province’s law. - How do I file a harassment complaint against my landlord?
Start by filling out the Tenant’s Application (Form 6) and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office with evidence. - Can a landlord evict me for complaining about harassment?
No, retaliatory evictions are not permitted. Tenants are protected from being evicted solely for exercising their rights or filing a complaint. - What happens after I submit a complaint?
The RTO will review your application, may schedule a hearing, and decide on proper remedies—like stopping the harassment or awarding compensation. - If harassment continues, can I end my lease early?
With RTO or court approval, tenants subjected to harassment may be allowed to end their lease without penalty.
Key Takeaways
- Landlord harassment is illegal and can lead to compensation or early lease termination for tenants.
- Document all incidents and act quickly using official forms and the RTO process.
- Tenants are encouraged to learn more about their rights and seek help if needed.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: Main agency for tenant complaints, forms, and information.
- Public Legal Information Association of NL (PLIAN): Free legal information and tenant guidance.
- Official Rental Forms and Applications
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. Read the full Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 online.
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, RTO Forms. Official Rental Forms
