Moving In and Out: Guide for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Starting a new rental journey in Newfoundland and Labrador can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure about the essential steps when moving in or out. Understanding your rights and responsibilities before you unpack your boxes—or prepare to hand back the keys—can help you avoid unexpected problems, disputes, or extra costs. This comprehensive guide covers everything tenants should know about moving in and out, property inspections, deposits, and ending a tenancy under Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Act.

What to Know Before You Move In

Moving in is more than just picking up the keys. Here’s what every tenant should double-check to ensure a smooth start:

• Read your lease carefully: Make sure you understand the length of your lease, the rent amount, and any special conditions.
• Security deposit: Landlords can ask for a security deposit, which cannot exceed three-quarters of one month’s rent. Know your rights about how it will be held and returned.
  See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for detailed deposit rules.
• Condition of the property: Inspect the rental unit thoroughly and note any issues or damage before moving in.
• Get everything in writing: Always get receipts for deposits and any agreements outside your written lease.

Don’t forget: Inspections help protect both you and your landlord if there’s ever a dispute about damages or cleaning. Documenting the condition saves headaches later on.

The Initial Inspection: Creating a Baseline

Landlords and tenants are encouraged to complete a move-in inspection together. This inspection should be done when you get the keys and before moving in your furniture. List and photograph any damage—no matter how minor.

For a step-by-step walkthrough on inspections, visit Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Your Rights and Responsibilities During Your Tenancy

Once you’ve moved in, both you and your landlord have rights and obligations. The Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1] outlines duties like paying rent on time, keeping the property clean, and respecting the quiet enjoyment of neighbours. Landlords must provide a safe, well-maintained home.

If you’re ever unsure about your duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Routine maintenance, repairs, rent increases, and other issues may arise during your tenancy. Learn more about your rights on the provincial facts page: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Preparing for Moving Out: Key Steps

Leaving your rental requires careful planning to avoid losing your deposit or facing unexpected bills:

• Give proper notice: In most cases, you must give at least one full rental month’s notice before leaving (using the Notice to Terminate form below).
• Schedule a final inspection: Arrange with your landlord to check the condition of your unit before handing back the keys. Clean thoroughly and repair any damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Return all keys and fobs: Make sure you return everything to avoid deductions from your deposit.
• Provide a forwarding address for your deposit return.

For helpful tips on leaving your rental, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Important Official Forms When Moving In or Out

• Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement (Form N8)
  When to use: Tenants use this form to give their landlord proper written notice that they intend to move out.
  Example: If your lease is monthly, give notice before the start of the next full month.
  Download the official Notice to Terminate form (N8)^[2]
• Security Deposit Refund Request
  When to use: If your landlord does not automatically return your security deposit within 15 days after moving out, you may request it back in writing before applying to the Director if needed.
  See government guidance on security deposit refunds^[3]

After the Final Inspection

After the final inspection, your landlord must give you a list of any deductions from your deposit (if applicable) within 15 days. If you disagree, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution.

For those looking for their next place, Explore rental homes in your area with the latest listings across Canada.

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