Legal Aid Options for Tenants After Eviction in Newfoundland

Post-Eviction Resources Newfoundland and Labrador published: June 20, 2025 Flag of Newfoundland and Labrador

If you’ve been evicted in Newfoundland and Labrador, knowing where to find legal aid and trusted support is crucial. This guide covers practical steps and official resources to help you understand your rights, access provincial legal services, and get assistance for post-eviction concerns.

Understanding Your Rights After Eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador

Eviction can cause uncertainty and stress, but tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador retain important legal protections. The main law governing rentals is the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)[1]. It sets out procedures landlords must follow, reasons for eviction, and post-eviction remedies you may access.

Official disputes and applications are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), part of Service NL. If you believe your eviction was improper, unfair, or that your landlord did not follow legal steps, the RTO is your first point of contact.

Where to Access Legal Aid and Advice

Here are some key options for tenants seeking legal aid or support after being evicted in Newfoundland and Labrador:

1. Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission

  • What it offers: Free and low-cost legal help for eligible individuals, including advice, representation, and help with tribunal hearings
  • Who can apply: Tenants with low income or facing financial hardship
  • How to access: Visit the Legal Aid NL website or call (709) 753-7860 to book an intake appointment.

2. Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PLIAN)

  • What it offers: Free legal information, referrals, and workshops for tenants.
  • How to access: See PLIAN’s website or call their legal info line at 1-888-660-7788.

3. Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)

  • What it offers: Information on disputes, submitting applications, and understanding the eviction process.
  • How to access: Visit the RTO page on Service NL to get forms or find an office near you.
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Essential Forms and How to Use Them After Eviction

Depending on your situation after eviction, you may need to fill out an official form:

  • Application for Return of Personal Property (RTO Form):
    • When to use: If your belongings were left behind at the rental after eviction, use this to request their return.
    • How to use: Download from the official RTO forms page, complete the details, and submit to the RTO office. Staff can assist if you have questions.
  • Application for a Decision (Form 12):
    • When to use: If you believe your eviction was improper, use this form to seek a formal ruling from the RTO.
    • How to use: Fill out Form 12 (found here), clearly explaining your situation. Submit it in person, by mail, or to the nearest government office as listed on the RTO contacts page.
  • Application for Return of Security Deposit:
    • When to use: If you are concerned about recovering your security deposit after moving out or after an eviction.
    • How to use: Complete the form available from your landlord, or contact the RTO for assistance and their official version.

For a detailed look at rental deposits and how they work, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Tenant Rights: Key Points After Eviction

Even after an eviction, you have certain rights:

  • Request the return of your security deposit (if applicable)
  • Retrieve personal property left behind in the rental unit
  • Challenge the eviction if proper rules were not followed
  • Access tenant advocacy and legal aid services for support

Get more details on housing laws at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Remember: Acting quickly after eviction is essential. Deadlines for appeals or retrieving property may apply, so reach out to the Residential Tenancies Office or a legal aid service as soon as possible.

Need help finding a new place? Browse apartments for rent in Canada for options that fit your needs.

FAQ: Legal Aid & Tenant Support in Newfoundland and Labrador

  1. Is legal aid free for tenants after eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador?
    Yes, legal aid is free or very low-cost for eligible tenants based on income and circumstances. It covers advice, help with forms, and tribunal representation if you qualify.
  2. Can I challenge an eviction decision if I think it was unfair?
    Yes. You may file an Application for a Decision (Form 12) with the Residential Tenancies Office to appeal or contest an eviction.
  3. Where can I find official tenant forms or more information?
    Official forms are available on the Service NL Residential Tenancies Office website or by contacting the office directly.
  4. How do I get my security deposit back after eviction?
    Contact the RTO or use their relevant forms to request the return of your deposit, provided you meet all requirements.
  5. Who can help if I need to move quickly after an eviction?
    Tenant support agencies like PLIAN offer referrals, and you can browse apartments for rent in Canada for immediate housing options.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  • Evicted tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have the right to legal support and to challenge eviction decisions.
  • Use official forms from the RTO to request property or appeal actions.
  • Seek timely help from legal aid or tenant advocacy groups to protect your interests.

Quick action and understanding your rights can help you access support and find new housing faster.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2018, c. R-14.1. Available at: Residential Tenancies Act (Legislation Newfoundland and Labrador).
  2. Service NL, Residential Tenancies: Official RTO Page.
  3. Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission: Official Legal Aid NL.
  4. Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador: PLIAN.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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