Landlord Health & Safety Requirements in Newfoundland and Labrador

Every tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador deserves a safe and healthy place to live. The law sets clear standards that landlords must follow for repairs, cleanliness, heating, and more. Understanding these requirements can help you protect your wellbeing and know what steps to take if issues arise.

Your Landlord’s Health and Safety Duties

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must:

• Ensure rental units meet provincial health and safety standards
• Maintain the property in a good state of repair and fit for habitation
• Comply with all local building, fire, and housing codes

This means things like functioning heat, safe electrical systems, working smoke alarms, and pest control are not optional—they’re required by law.

Examples of Health and Safety Requirements

• Working locks on doors and windows
• Proper water supply (hot and cold)
• Adequate heating, especially in winter months
• No hazardous mould or structural damage
• Pest-free living conditions

For a tenant-focused overview on potential issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Reporting Problems and Requesting Repairs

If you believe your home is unsafe or unhealthy:

• Report the problem to your landlord in writing and keep a dated copy
• If the issue is not fixed promptly, you may contact a government inspector (e.g., municipal, fire, or health authorities)
• For urgent situations (no heat, sewage backup, unsafe wiring, etc.), immediate action may be warranted

Common issues tenants face include problems with heating, plumbing, pests, or serious water leaks. To understand responsibilities around routine fixes, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Provincial Oversight: Residential Tenancies Board

The Residential Tenancies Board of Newfoundland and Labrador handles landlord–tenant disputes, applications, and enforces the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.¹ They can order repairs, rent reductions, or other remedies.

Read more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Forms and Steps for Tenants

Tenants seeking to compel repairs, claim a rent abatement, or dispute non-compliance typically use:

• Application for Orders (Form RTB-12): File this with the Residential Tenancies Board to request an order (such as requiring the landlord to make repairs).
  Download Application for Orders (Form RTB-12).
  Example: If your landlord repeatedly ignores requests for mold removal, you can use this form to ask the Board for an official repair order.

Before applying, you should gather evidence (photos, communication records), attempt to resolve the issue directly with the landlord, and be prepared to describe steps taken.

Penalties for Landlord Non-Compliance

If a landlord does not maintain a healthy and safe rental unit, the Residential Tenancies Board may:

• Order the landlord to make repairs by a set deadline
• Authorize tenants to pay for repairs and deduct these costs from rent (with permission)
• Order rent reductions when conditions are not livable
• Impose fines or allow tenants to end the lease early in severe cases

What to Do If Your Rental Isn’t Safe or Healthy

• Communicate the issue to your landlord first
• Keep detailed records and photographic evidence
• Notify local authorities if there’s an immediate threat (e.g., fire department, health inspector)
• If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Board using Form RTB-12
• Attend your hearing (virtually or in person), present evidence, and request appropriate orders

Tenants have further information in the guide: Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Find Rental Listings That Meet Your Needs

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FAQ: Tenant Health & Safety in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to fix heating or water problems?
   You should first notify your landlord in writing and keep copies. If the problem is not fixed promptly, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Board using Form RTB-12 to request an order for repairs.
2. Who enforces health and safety standards in Newfoundland and Labrador rentals?
   The Residential Tenancies Board oversees health and safety compliance and can issue orders to enforce repairs. Municipal inspectors and public health officials may also get involved for code violations.
3. Can I withhold rent if my home is unsafe?
   No. You must continue paying rent, but you may apply to have the Board order repairs or request permission to pay for repairs yourself and deduct costs from your rent.
4. What forms do I need to make a health or safety complaint?
   Use the Application for Orders (Form RTB-12), available from the Residential Tenancies Board’s website.
5. Are pest issues my landlord’s responsibility?
   Yes, landlords must provide a habitable unit, meaning pest infestations are generally their responsibility to address and correct.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must maintain rental units in safe, sanitary, and livable condition at all times
• Tenants have the right to report and seek remedies for health and safety problems
• Official forms and recourse are available through the Residential Tenancies Board

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Board of Newfoundland and Labrador: Information, complaint forms, contacts
• Provincial Legal Aid: Legal Aid NL
• Government Information Line: 1-855-738-7870
• Tenant advocacy and support resources available through Newfoundland and Labrador housing authorities and community groups

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1. Residential Tenancies Board of Newfoundland and Labrador: official website
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (current legislation)

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