Ending a tenancy in Newfoundland and Labrador involves more than packing boxes: returning keys and fobs on time, documenting condition, and following official procedures helps protect your deposit and tenant rights. This guide explains common expectations for tenants, practical steps to return locks and access devices, how to request receipts, and when to involve the Residential Tenancies Division. Whether you rent an apartment, condo or house, understanding timelines, written notices, and evidence you should keep will reduce misunderstandings with your landlord and make moving out smoother.
Who handles key and fob returns in Newfoundland and Labrador
The Residential Tenancies Division oversees disputes and enforcement for residential leases in Newfoundland and Labrador. Tenants should check the Division's guidance and the provincial Residential Tenancies Act for rules on ending a tenancy and deposit deductions. [1][2]
Practical steps to return keys, fobs and locks
Follow these steps to make the handover clear and well documented.
- Arrange a mutually convenient, written handover time with your landlord and request a written receipt for returned keys and fobs.
- Return keys and fobs by the date specified in your notice to vacate or the lease end date to avoid disputes over possession and liability.
- Take dated photos or short videos of the unit at move-out and of the keys and fobs you hand over as evidence of condition and what was returned.
- Ask for a written receipt that lists each item returned (keys, building fobs, garage remotes) to support any deposit refund claim.
If the landlord wants new locks or replacement fobs
Landlords may seek replacement cost if keys or fobs are not returned or are lost, but deductions from a security deposit must be reasonable and documented. If you disagree with a proposed deduction, the Residential Tenancies Division can hear a dispute. [1]
Common disputes and how to avoid them
Most disputes arise from unclear handover, missing receipts, or disagreements over damage versus normal wear. To reduce risk:
- Document the unit condition with timestamps and share a copy with the landlord at move-out.
- Provide a short written note when returning keys listing serials or identifying marks on fobs where possible.
- Request an itemized list of any proposed deductions from your deposit and a written explanation before any money is withheld.
FAQ
- Do I have to return every key and fob provided during my tenancy?
- Yes, you should return all keys, building fobs and access devices issued to you to avoid liability for replacement costs.
- What if I return keys but the landlord still claims they were not received?
- Provide the receipt, photos or witness information and, if unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Division for a decision.
- Can the landlord change the locks without my agreement at the end of tenancy?
- Landlords should not change locks during a tenancy except for lawful reasons; at the end of tenancy they may arrange lock changes but typically cannot charge unreasonable costs for normal turnover.
How-To
- Give written notice of your move-out date and ask the landlord to confirm a key/fob handover time in writing.
- On handover day, photograph the keys and fobs, meet the landlord, and get a signed receipt listing items returned.
- Retain copies of the receipt and move-out photos; if a dispute arises, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Division with your evidence. [1]
Key Takeaways
- Return all keys and fobs on or before the lease end date and get a signed receipt.
- Document condition and keep dated photos to protect against unjust deposit deductions.
- If you can't resolve a deduction, apply to the Residential Tenancies Division for a formal decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Division - Service NL
- Residential Tenancies Act, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential tenancy forms and guides
