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Tenants sharing a home in Newfoundland and Labrador often face practical questions about rent, repairs, deposits and responding to landlord notices. This guide explains basic renter and roommate responsibilities in clear language, shows steps to document issues, and points to the official provincial resources you may need when a repair, a dispute over a deposit, or a notice arises. Whether you share a house, apartment or room, the information here helps you communicate with roommates and your landlord, protect your tenancy, and prepare applications to the province’s residential tenancy service if matters cannot be resolved informally.^[1]

Rights and responsibilities when sharing a rental

When you live with roommates, responsibilities may be written into the lease or shared informally. If you and others are named on the rental agreement, each named tenant usually shares legal responsibility for rent and for keeping the unit in good condition. If only one person signed the lease and sublets to others, responsibilities can differ and it helps to get agreements in writing and keep receipts.

Splitting rent and deposits

• Agree in writing how rent and utility bills will be split each month and who pays what share.
• If you paid a security deposit, agree whether it is shared or held by the leaseholder; ask for a receipt for any deposit paid.
• Keep payment records: bank transfers, e‑transfers or written receipts show who paid and when.

Maintenance, repairs and habitability

Landlords must keep rental units in a habitable condition and make routine repairs. Tenants should notify the landlord promptly in writing when repairs are needed, allow reasonable access for repairs, and document the issue with photos and messages. If the landlord does not act, you can escalate to the provincial residential tenancy service for help or an application.^[2]

Privacy and entry

Landlords generally must give notice before entering a unit except in emergencies. Discuss access times with roommates so repairs can happen with minimum conflict and everyone’s privacy respected.

FAQ

Can a landlord evict a roommate without notice?

Eviction rules depend on who signed the lease; if the roommate is a named tenant, the landlord must follow the provincial process and provide proper notice before any eviction application is accepted.

Who is responsible for repairs in a shared unit?

The landlord is responsible for major repairs and habitability; tenants must take reasonable care and report needed maintenance in writing.

How should I document a dispute with a roommate or landlord?

Keep dated messages, photos, receipts, a written agreement for sharing costs, and copies of any notices or repair requests.

How-To

1. Document the problem with dated photos and written notes, including when the issue started and any health or safety concerns.
2. Send a clear written request to the landlord describing the repair or concern, the dates involved, and what you would like done; keep a copy.
3. Allow reasonable access for inspections or repairs after you receive proper notice, and confirm appointments with your roommates if needed.
4. If the landlord does not respond, prepare an application to the provincial residential tenancy service with your documentation and submit it according to their instructions.^[2]
5. Attend any scheduled hearing or mediation, bring copies of all evidence, and follow the tribunal’s directions to resolve the issue.

Key Takeaways

• Put agreements with roommates in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
• Report repairs in writing and document problems with photos and dates.
• Use the provincial residential tenancy service if you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact Service NL — Residential Tenancies Division
• Residential Tenancies Act and provincial guides
• Applications and official tenancy forms

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1. [1] Service NL — Landlord and Tenant information
2. [2] Service NL — Tenancy forms and applications
3. [3] Government of Newfoundland and Labrador — Official legislation and resources