Living with roommates in Newfoundland and Labrador can be an affordable and social way to rent, but conflict or confusion sometimes arises. From dividing rent and utilities to disagreements about cleaning, noise, or paying bills, shared living situations come with unique challenges. This guide explains practical steps for tenants dealing with problems in roommate or shared housing rentals, focused on protections under Newfoundland and Labrador law.
Understanding Roommate and Shared Housing Agreements
First, know what kind of agreement you have. In Newfoundland and Labrador, your rights and responsibilities can differ depending on whether:
- You and your roommates all signed the lease with the landlord (joint tenancy)
- One person is subletting rooms to others
- You have a verbal agreement without a written lease
In joint tenancies, each tenant listed on the lease is fully responsible to the landlord for rent and any damages. If you're subletting, be sure to check that the landlord has agreed in writing, as unlawful subletting can create legal complications.
Common Roommate and Shared Housing Issues
Some of the most frequent shared housing challenges include:
- One roommate not paying their share of rent
- Disputes over security deposits or damage
- Cleanliness, noise, or visitor disagreements
- End of tenancy complications if a roommate wants to move out early
Resolving these issues starts with understanding your legal rights as a tenant. Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Act[1] is the main law covering rentals, including shared housing.
Step-by-Step: What to Do When Problems Arise
1. Communicate Directly and Document Everything
Start with a respectful discussion with your roommate(s). Clearly state the issue, listen to their perspective, and look for reasonable solutions. Keep all communication in writing (texts or emails) if possible, especially concerning rent or repairs.
2. Check Your Lease and Tenancy Rights
Review your rental agreement for clauses on roommates, subletting, and responsibilities. For an overview of tenant and landlord duties under provincial law, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. You can also find detailed information under Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
3. Seek Help from Your Landlord (If Needed)
If communication fails, notify your landlord if the issue affects the whole unit (e.g., unpaid rent, property damage). The landlord may be able to assist but cannot mediate between individual roommates unless all are on the lease.
4. Applying to the Residential Tenancies Section
Serious unresolved issues—like unpaid rent, security deposit disputes, or someone refusing to leave—may need formal action. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Residential Tenancies Section is the official tribunal for rental disputes.
- Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12): Use this if you need an order to resolve a tenancy issue, such as terminating a tenancy for non-payment or reclaiming your deposit.
Example: If your roommate stops paying rent and won't leave, you can file Form 12 for a hearing. - Notice to Terminate Rental Agreement (Form 12A): Use this to give formal notice when you are ending the tenancy. Read the provincial guidelines for correct notice periods.
File these forms online, by mail, or in person—visit the Residential Tenancies Section website for instructions.
5. Security Deposits and Moving Out
Deciding who gets the security deposit can be tricky in shared housing. Typically, the deposit is returned to those listed as tenants on the lease after deductions for outstanding rent or damages. For detailed rules, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Your Rights and the Law
If problems escalate, remember that you and your landlord cannot forcibly remove a roommate—you must follow proper notice and, if necessary, seek an eviction order through the Residential Tenancies Section. Self-help evictions are illegal in Newfoundland and Labrador.
For more detail, review the full text of the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)[1].
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can my landlord evict just one roommate in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The landlord can't evict a single roommate from a joint lease—eviction orders usually apply to everyone listed as tenants. If the problem is only with one person, consult the Residential Tenancies Section for options. - Are verbal roommate agreements legally binding?
Verbal agreements carry less weight than written ones. For disputes, written rental agreements/contracts are best for clarity and legal protection. - What if my roommate doesn't pay their share of the rent?
If you have a joint lease, all tenants are fully responsible for the whole rent. If someone fails to pay, the landlord may hold everyone liable. Communicate first, but unresolved issues may need a tribunal application. - How do I handle security deposit disputes among roommates?
Deposits are returned to those named in the lease. If you paid a share but aren't on the lease, resolve with your roommate directly or through small claims if needed. - Who can I contact if roommate conflict leads to threats or safety concerns?
If you feel unsafe, contact local authorities. For non-emergency legal help, reach out to the Residential Tenancies Section or local tenant advocacy.
How To: Address Roommate Problems in Newfoundland and Labrador
- How do I apply for a hearing to resolve a roommate dispute?
Gather your documents (lease, messages, bills). Complete Form 12 from the Residential Tenancies Section, submit it with supporting evidence, and attend the scheduled hearing. - How do I end my part of a lease if I want to move out early?
Provide written notice to your landlord and roommates using Form 12A. Check your lease for notice periods—usually at least one rental period in advance. - How can I change my rental agreement to add or remove a roommate?
Speak with your landlord about updating the lease. All parties may need to sign a new agreement or amendment.
Key Takeaways
- Know your type of tenancy and who is legally responsible under the lease.
- Try to resolve roommate disputes amicably and keep good records.
- Use official forms and contact the Residential Tenancies Section if formal help is needed.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Section (Newfoundland and Labrador Dept. of Digital Government and Service NL): For applications, forms, and dispute resolution.
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador: For an overview of your rights and responsibilities.
- Public Legal Information Association of NL: Tenant and housing legal information.
- For apartments and housing searches: Canada's best rental listings platform.
