Protecting Tenant Privacy and Personal Information in Newfoundland and Labrador

As a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have the right to have your personal information respected and managed safely by landlords. Privacy protections extend beyond just your home—ensuring the security of your data, documents, and sensitive details is essential for every renter. Understanding these rights can help you feel more secure throughout your tenancy journey.

How Tenant Privacy Is Protected in Rentals

Your name, address, phone number, financial details, and even information found on your rental application are all considered personal information. Landlords have a responsibility to handle this data carefully and only collect what is necessary to manage the property and tenancy.

• Landlords must not disclose your personal information without your consent, unless required by law.
• Access to files or applications containing your data should be strictly limited.
• Information like your Social Insurance Number (SIN) or detailed financial info should only be requested when absolutely necessary.

The Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPPA) as well as the Personal Health Information Act outline landlord and agency obligations for privacy in Newfoundland and Labrador.^[1]

What Can a Landlord Legally Collect?

Generally, landlords may ask for:

• Your full name and contact information
• References or employment information (for income verification)
• Previous rental history

Landlords cannot request information unrelated to the rental (for example, your driver’s licence number unless used to verify identity for tenancy purposes). For more on rights and responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Your Rights When Sharing Information

Tenants should only be asked for personal details needed for legitimate rental purposes. If you feel uncomfortable or have doubts about what’s being requested, ask what the information will be used for and how it will be kept safe.

Tip: Never share documents or data you aren’t comfortable providing. Ask your landlord why it is needed and request to see their privacy policy if you have concerns.

Security and Storage of Your Data

Landlords should safeguard digital and paper files containing your personal information. Only authorized people—like the landlord or property manager—should have access. If you discover your information has been shared without permission or handled carelessly, you can file a privacy complaint with the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC).

Access and Correction: Your Data Rights

Tenants have the right to request access to, and corrections of, their personal information held by landlords or third parties acting on their behalf. This ensures the data is accurate and complete, and helps protect against misuse.

What If Your Privacy Is Breached?

If your personal data is lost, stolen, or disclosed without consent, report the breach:

• Contact your landlord in writing and ask for an explanation.
• If unresolved, file a complaint with the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner NL.
• If it’s a rental dispute, the Residential Tenancies Office of Newfoundland and Labrador may help resolve certain rental-related privacy complaints.

Relevant Official Forms for Tenants

• Application for Repairs or Entry Complaint (Form A): Use this if you believe your landlord has unlawfully entered your unit or accessed your information.
  Application for Dispute (Form A) – Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Complaint Form – OIPC NL: Submit this to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner if you believe your landlord or rental agency mishandled your data.
  OIPC Newfoundland and Labrador Complaint Form

For both, include specific details and attach any evidence (emails, letters, etc.), then submit as directed on the form’s cover page.

Who Oversees Tenant Rights?

The Residential Tenancies Office administers landlord–tenant law in Newfoundland and Labrador. Residential tenancies are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.^[2]

For additional regional details, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Frequently Asked Questions About Privacy and Rentals in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Can my landlord ask for my Social Insurance Number or banking details?
   Landlords should only ask for such details if required for lawful reasons, like direct deposit of damage deposit refunds. Otherwise, avoid providing your SIN or detailed banking data whenever possible.
2. Who can access my rental application or information?
   Only your landlord and authorized agents managing your tenancy can view your data. It cannot be shared with other tenants or third parties without your consent.
3. What if my personal information is shared without my permission?
   Contact your landlord to request an explanation. If not resolved, file a complaint with the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner Newfoundland and Labrador using their online or downloadable form.
4. Do privacy laws apply to maintenance workers entering my home?
   Yes. Any person entering your home for inspections or repairs must respect your privacy and should not access your private materials or documents.
5. Where can I find safe and secure rentals in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for listings that prioritize tenant privacy and security.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your landlord can only request and use your personal information for valid rental purposes.
• If you believe your privacy has been breached, you have the right to file a complaint and request corrections.
• Forms and government support are available to help protect your rights as a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office Newfoundland and Labrador — Information, forms, and support for tenant rights
• Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner NL — Privacy complaints and information resources
• Consumer Affairs: Tenant Information — Government housing advice

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1. Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPPA), NL. Read the Act here.
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. View official legislation here.

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