Moving Into a Rental: Newfoundland and Labrador Tenant Checklist

Moving into a rental home in Newfoundland and Labrador can be exciting, but it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition. This guide provides a step-by-step checklist for tenants relocating to their new rental in the province, covering inspections, deposits, accessibility, health and safety, and more.

Understanding Your Rights and Tenancy Legislation

As a tenant, your rights and responsibilities are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. Disputes and issues are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office of Newfoundland and Labrador, which provides forms, information, and support to all tenants and landlords in the province.

For a quick overview of tenant and landlord rights, you can visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Checklist: Before You Move In

• Review Your Lease Agreement: Read your rental agreement carefully. Make sure all terms—including rent, tenancy length, and rules—are clear and fair.
• Accessibility Needs: If you require accessible features, discuss these with your landlord in advance. The law prohibits discrimination based on disability.
• Paying the Security Deposit: Understand how much you must pay (cannot exceed three-quarters of one month’s rent), how it is held, and the conditions for return. See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for more details.
• Explore Your New Neighbourhood: Confirm transportation, schools, and other essential services.

Official Forms You May Need

• Form: Rental Agreement (no number; standard template)
  Use this any time you move in. Download from the official forms page. Fill it out before moving in, and keep a signed copy.
• Form RTB-12 (Condition Report)
  This document lets you record the unit’s state before moving in. It helps avoid disputes about deposits or damage. Complete it with your landlord and keep copies. Access the form at RTB-12 Condition Report.
• Form RTB-14 (Application for Dispute Resolution)
  If you have immediate issues, you can submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Office. Learn more at the official forms section.

Moving In: The First Days

• Conduct an Initial Inspection: Walk through with your landlord, using Form RTB-12 to note pre-existing damage, missing fixtures, or safety hazards. See more in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
• Check for Health and Safety Issues: Ensure smoke detectors, locks, heating, and water are all functional and in good repair. If you spot problems, report them promptly. Detailed guidance is available in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
• Set Up Essential Services: Arrange utilities such as electricity, heat, and internet before moving in.
• Accessibility Adjustments: If not done yet, request written permission for any reasonable accessibility modifications as allowed by law.

Tip: Document everything! Take photos of the unit on day one and save copies of all communications with your landlord.

Key Steps for Accessible and Discrimination-Free Renting

Newfoundland and Labrador prohibits discrimination based on race, disability, family status, and other protected grounds. If you feel your rights are violated, contact the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador or apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form RTB-14.

Staying Organized and Managing Ongoing Rights

• Keep a folder (digital or physical) with your lease, deposit receipts, inspection reports, and communication logs.
• Understand how to request repairs or report issues promptly.
• Stay informed about notice periods for rent changes or other legal matters. After you’ve moved in, see the What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement resource.

Planning to find your next rental? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

FAQ: Moving In as a Tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. What should I do if the rental unit is not clean or has pre-existing damage?
   Document the issues using the RTB-12 Condition Report and photos, and inform your landlord right away.
2. Can my landlord refuse to install accessibility modifications?
   Landlords are required to make reasonable accommodation unless it causes undue hardship. Requests cannot be denied without valid cause.
3. How much security deposit can my landlord collect?
   Landlords may only collect up to three-quarters of the first month’s rent as a deposit by law.
4. Is renter’s insurance required?
   It is not legally required, but it’s highly recommended to protect your belongings.
5. Where do I file a complaint if I face discrimination or tenancy issues?
   You can submit a complaint to the Residential Tenancies Office or contact the Human Rights Commission for discrimination matters.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Read and understand all aspects of your lease and related provincial forms.
• Use official inspection and documentation tools to protect your deposit and rights.
• Know who to contact if you experience discrimination or accessibility problems.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Office – Official site for forms, complaint processes, and guidance
• Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador – Help with discrimination or accessibility-related issues
• For a summary of your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Find accessible, affordable homes on Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (SNL 2018, c R-14.1); Official legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Office Newfoundland and Labrador: Official government page
3. Human Rights Act, SNL 2010, c H-13.1: Human Rights Act
4. Forms and Resources: NL Residential Tenancies Forms

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