Newfoundland and Labrador Tenant Eviction FAQ

Facing eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador can be stressful and confusing. This guide answers the most common tenant questions about eviction, outlines your legal rights, explains official eviction forms, and helps you take the right steps if your landlord tries to end your tenancy. All information is specific to Newfoundland and Labrador for 2024.

Understanding Eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador

Eviction is the legal process a landlord uses to end a tenancy. In Newfoundland and Labrador, both landlords and tenants have specific rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. Only the Residential Tenancies Division can issue an official eviction order: a landlord cannot physically remove you or your belongings without one.

What Are Legal Reasons for Eviction?

• Non-payment of rent
• Repeated late payment of rent
• Substantial damage to the property
• Interfering with the enjoyment of other tenants
• The landlord or their immediate family wants to move in (with proper notice)
• Major renovations or building demolition

These reasons, required notice periods, and processes are outlined in the RTA and must be followed.

Eviction Notice Periods

The amount of notice your landlord must give you depends on the reason for eviction:

• Non-payment of rent: As little as 10 days’ written notice
• Other reasons (like renovation or landlord moving in): Usually 3 months’ notice

All notices must be in writing using the approved form (see below for forms and examples).

Eviction Forms & How Tenants Should Respond

NL Form RT – Notice of Termination (by Landlord)

Your landlord must use the official Notice of Termination (Form RT) to start the eviction process. This form states the reason and effective date for ending your tenancy. For example, if you have not paid rent within 10 days of it being due, your landlord may deliver this form to you.

• Official Form: NL RT – Notice of Termination (PDF)
• Tenant Action: Review the reason, check for proper notice period, and seek advice if you disagree. Respond in writing and keep records. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Division if you wish to dispute the notice.

NL Form RT – Application for Dispute Resolution

If you believe the eviction is unfair or the notice is incorrect, you can submit a Dispute Application.

• Official Form: NL RT – Application for Dispute Resolution
• Example: You receive a notice for damage you did not cause. Complete and submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Division promptly.

Always act quickly: certain forms must be submitted within short timeframes after you receive an eviction notice.

What Happens After a Hearing?

If the dispute is not resolved and a hearing takes place, the Residential Tenancies Division will issue an order either upholding or cancelling the eviction notice. If eviction is granted, you will receive a date by which to move out.

Important: Only a sheriff or proper legal authority may physically remove tenants if a final order is granted. Landlords cannot do this themselves.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant

Evictions are regulated by provincial law, so your rights are carefully protected. For a complete overview of your rights and obligations as a tenant, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

All tenants must keep paying rent while a dispute is ongoing, unless the Residential Tenancies Division directs otherwise.

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Keep written records of all communications
• Act quickly if served with a notice—deadlines are strict
• Know Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained
• Get help if you are unsure how to respond to an eviction

If you are searching for new housing after eviction, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions: Evictions in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. How much notice must my landlord give for eviction?
   It depends on the reason. For non-payment of rent, the law requires at least 10 days’ notice. For personal use or renovations, it is usually three months.
2. What do I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Review the notice for legal accuracy. If you disagree or were not given enough notice, you can file a Dispute Application with the Residential Tenancies Division using the official form. Keep paying rent during the process.
3. Can my landlord evict me without a hearing?
   No. Unless you voluntarily move out or agree with the notice, the process requires review by the Residential Tenancies Division if you file a dispute. Only they can make an eviction enforceable.
4. Will an eviction affect getting my security deposit back?
   If you leave owing rent or damages, your deposit may be used to cover those costs. Learn more in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
5. Where can I get help if I believe my landlord is evicting me illegally?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Division or a local tenant advocacy group immediately to discuss your situation and options.

How to Challenge an Eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. How do I dispute an eviction notice?
   1. Collect your eviction notice, lease, and any supporting records.
   2. Fill out the NL RT – Application for Dispute Resolution.
   3. Submit your application to the Residential Tenancies Division as soon as possible.
2. How do I apply for a hearing?
   By submitting the Application for Dispute Resolution form to your local Residential Tenancies Division office. You may do this in person or according to their instructions online or by mail.
3. How do I prepare for a hearing?
   Gather evidence (emails, photos, witnesses) and organize your statements. Bring originals and copies and be on time for the hearing.
4. What happens if the order is in the landlord's favour?
   You will get a date to leave. Only the sheriff (never the landlord alone) may carry out the final eviction order if needed.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador must follow clear legal steps—notice forms and deadlines are mandatory.
• The Residential Tenancies Division is the only authority that can issue enforceable eviction orders.
• If you receive an eviction notice, respond right away using the official forms and seek support if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Division – Official government tribunal for rental disputes, evictions, and tenant-landlord rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
• CMHC – Affordable Housing Resources in Newfoundland and Labrador
• For a full overview of provincial rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Local legal clinics and advocacy groups may offer free tenant support and advice in your community

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Residential Tenancies Division – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Official Forms – Residential Tenancies Division

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy