Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador often turn to the Residential Tenancies Board when rent, repairs or eviction notices arise, but the Board has clear limits. This guide explains common issues the Board cannot decide—such as disputes about ownership, certain contract claims, or broader civil suits—and what tenants can do next. You will learn when to use Board forms, when to seek court action, and how to document evidence. Practical steps include how to prepare an application, which official forms to use, and where to get help locally. The goal is to give renters plain-language options so they can make informed choices about disputes and find the right process for their situation in Newfoundland and Labrador.
What the Board Decides
The Residential Tenancies Board handles many everyday rental disputes: unpaid rent, deposit returns, eviction notices under the Residential Tenancies Act, and orders related to repairs or maintenance that affect habitability. When you file with the Board you can expect a review of tenancy-specific matters and an adjudicator who applies provincial tenancy rules. If you plan to file, gather your lease, payment records, photos and copies of any notices.
Limits: What the Board Cannot Decide
The Board is focused on tenancy law. It cannot resolve every problem a tenant might face. Below are common categories outside the Board's jurisdiction and where you may need to look instead.
- Ownership or title disputes over property (these are civil property matters for court).
- Claims that require full civil lawsuits, such as large contract damages or personal injury claims tied to the property.
- Insurance claims and mortgage or foreclosure proceedings; the Board does not resolve lender or insurer disputes.
- Criminal matters or requests for criminal penalties against a person; contact police or Crown prosecutors for those issues.
- Some complex building code or municipal bylaw enforcement issues may be handled by the municipality rather than the Board.
Gray areas and mixed claims
Sometimes a dispute includes both tenancy issues and broader legal questions. For example, a tenant seeking compensation for damage caused by a landlord that also amounts to a personal injury may need to start with the Board for tenancy-related remedies while pursuing a civil claim in court for other losses.[1] Keep separate records for each claim so you can use the appropriate forum.
Official forms and when to use them
Tenants should use the Board's official forms for tenancy claims. Common examples include a standard application to start a Board hearing and a notice related to rent arrears or evictions. Fill out the Board's application form carefully, attach evidence, and file by mail or online per the instructions on the Board site.[3]
Practical example: if your landlord seeks to keep your deposit, submit the application form with your lease, a payment ledger, photos of the unit on move-out, and written communications. If your issue is a habitability problem (mold, heat, plumbing), the Board can decide tenancy orders, but consult municipal building or health departments for broader enforcement.[2] You can read more about handling repair issues in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
FAQ
- Can the Residential Tenancies Board decide who owns a property?
- No. Ownership or title disputes are civil property matters for the courts, not the Board.
- What if my problem involves both repairs and personal injury?
- You may use the Board for tenancy remedies and pursue a separate civil claim for personal injury; document everything and seek legal advice if injuries occurred.
- Are there official forms I must file with the Board?
- Yes. Use the Board's application and notice forms for tenancy disputes and attach evidence as required by the instructions on the official site.[3]
How-To
- Gather evidence: copies of the lease, photos, receipts, text messages, and any repair requests.
- Check deadlines: confirm time limits for filing with the Board or starting court actions.
- Complete the correct Board form, attach evidence, and keep a copy for your records.
- Attend the hearing or court date prepared to explain your request and present documents or witnesses.
- If unsure, seek local legal advice or an advocacy service before filing.
Key Takeaways
- The Board handles tenancy-specific disputes but not ownership or criminal matters.
- Document everything and use the correct official forms when applying to the Board.
- Some claims may require both a Board application and a civil court action.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board - official site
- Residential Tenancies Act (provincial legislation)
- Board application forms and instructions
