If your rented home in Newfoundland and Labrador has inadequate or unsafe heating, you have rights and practical options to get it fixed. This guide explains a tenants role and the landlords legal duty to provide safe, functioning heating systems, what counts as an emergency, how to report problems, and when to use official forms. It uses clear, nonlegal language so renters can document issues, set reasonable repair deadlines, and understand when to apply to the provincial residential tenancy office for help. Whether you rent an apartment, house, or shared unit, these steps will help you stay warm and safe while preserving your tenancy rights.
What the law requires
Under provincial residential tenancy rules, landlords must provide and maintain heating that keeps a rental unit safe and habitable. Tenants can expect systems that meet building and safety codes, including safe fuel storage, functional furnaces or heat pumps, proper vents, and working carbon monoxide detectors where required. These duties are set out in provincial legislation and enforced by the Residential Tenancies Division.[1]
What counts as safe heating
Safe heating means the system must provide adequate warmth without producing dangerous fumes or fire risks. Examples include:
- A furnace or heat pump in good working order with regular maintenance
- Proper venting and no signs of carbon monoxide or gas leaks
- Installed carbon monoxide and smoke detectors where required by code
- Safe portable heaters used only if permitted and if they meet safety standards
For common health and ventilation hazards related to heating, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Reporting problems and repairs
Start by telling your landlord in writing about the heating issue, describe symptoms (no heat, odd smells, cycling), and request repairs by a reasonable deadline. Keep records of dates, photos, and copies of messages. If the landlord does not act, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Division for an order or request an emergency repair depending on severity.
- Contact your landlord or property manager in writing and keep a copy
- Take dated photos and keep a repair log
- If needed, file the "Application to the Residential Tenancies Division (Form 1)" to request an order for example, if you have no heat for multiple days despite written notice.[2]
- For emergency issues (dangerous gas smell, no heat in extreme cold) tell the landlord and call emergency services if you believe you are at risk
For urgent or lifethreatening heating risks and next steps, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. If you need temporary alternate housing while repairs happen, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who is responsible if the heating stops working?
- If the heating system fails, the landlord is generally responsible for arranging repairs and ensuring the unit remains habitable; tenants should notify the landlord in writing and keep records.
- When is lack of heat an emergency?
- When no heating puts occupants at risk of hypothermia, or when there are smells of gas or carbon monoxide; treat these as emergencies and call 911 if you or others are in immediate danger.
- Can I withhold rent or repair and deduct?
- Tenants should not withhold rent without an order from the Residential Tenancies Division or specific legal authority; instead, follow the formal complaint process or apply for an order.
How-To
- Notify your landlord in writing with a clear description and request a repair date
- Collect evidence: photos, temperatures, copies of messages
- File the official application form with the Residential Tenancies Division if the landlord does not act
- Attend any hearing and bring your documentation to support your case
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Division, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act (provincial legislation)
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
