Living with roommates can be affordable but disagreements sometimes lead to eviction or formal disputes. If you rent in Newfoundland and Labrador, it helps to know what tenants can do when a roommate is behind on their share of rent, repeatedly breaks house rules, or makes the unit unsafe. This guide explains renter-focused steps for documenting problems, what written notices and official forms may be required, when to contact the provincial residential tenancy office, and how dispute resolution and hearings typically work so you can protect your housing and reduce stress while a resolution is reached.
Who is the tenant and who is the roommate?
Whether someone is a tenant or a roommate depends on who signed the rental agreement. If you and your roommate both signed a lease, both are tenants with rights and responsibilities. If only one person signed and others are informal occupants, the primary tenant still has legal responsibility to the landlord, while informal roommates have fewer direct legal rights against the landlord.
When a roommate should be asked to leave
- Non-payment of rent or consistent failure to pay their agreed share.
- Repeated behaviour that creates safety or habitability concerns for other occupants.
- Deliberate damage to the unit or landlord property.
- Serious breaches of the lease that risk eviction for everyone.
Documenting problems and giving notice
Start by documenting missed payments, rule breaches, or unsafe behaviour with dated records, photos, screenshots of messages, and a written log. If you need to ask a roommate to leave, provide a clear written notice that states the problem, the date you want them to vacate, and any terms you agreed on for repayment or repairs. If the situation involves a breach of the lease, follow the notice requirements in provincial rules and keep a copy for your records.
Official forms and when to use them
Depending on the situation you may need official forms or applications to the provincial residential tenancy office. Common documents include a formal application to the tribunal to resolve disputes or an eviction application if a co-tenant refuses to leave. For guidance on the exact form names and to download official templates, contact the provincial residential tenancy office listed in Help and Support / Resources below [1].
What to expect from dispute resolution and hearings
Tribunals usually encourage negotiation first and will accept evidence such as payment records, photos, and the written notice you gave the roommate. If mediation fails, a hearing will be scheduled where both sides can present facts. The tribunal can order remedies such as payment of arrears, written agreements, or eviction orders where permitted by law. If an order is issued, follow the timeline the tribunal sets for compliance.
Working with the landlord
If you are a co-tenant, speak with the landlord about options before escalating. If only one tenant is on the lease, the landlord will typically only act on tenant-landlord matters with the named tenant. Keep the landlord informed in writing and provide copies of notices or agreements you make with your roommate to avoid misunderstandings.
When to get legal or community help
If the situation involves threats, criminal activity, or urgent safety concerns, contact emergency services or local support agencies right away. For tenancy advice, consider tenant clinics or legal aid services that understand Newfoundland and Labrador tenancy rules. Practical tenant clinics can often review notices and documents before you file with the tribunal [2].
Practical checklist for tenants
- Collect and save dated evidence: receipts, photos, messages.
- Deliver a clear written notice to the roommate and keep a copy.
- Contact the provincial residential tenancy office or tenant clinic for advice.
- If necessary, file an application with the tribunal and attend any hearings.
Related resources
For background on tenant responsibilities and common complaints, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide and provincial tenant rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you need to find alternative housing quickly, you can also Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings for available options and filters that may help you find pet-friendly or short-term alternatives.
FAQ
- Can I remove a roommate who is not on the lease?
- If the roommate is not on the lease, they are generally an occupant and you must follow legal eviction steps; do not remove belongings or change locks without a tribunal order or police advice.
- How long do I have to wait after serving notice before filing with the tribunal?
- Timelines depend on the type of notice and the issue; follow the notice periods set by provincial rules and seek tribunal advice if unsure.
- Will the tribunal split responsibility for rent between roommates?
- The tribunal examines agreements and evidence; it can order payment of arrears or other remedies depending on who is legally responsible under the lease.
How-To
- Serve a written notice to the roommate explaining the issue and the date you want them to vacate.
- Collect evidence: dated photos, payment records, messages, and any witness statements.
- Contact the provincial residential tenancy office or a tenant advice clinic for guidance and to confirm required forms.
- If negotiation fails, file the appropriate tribunal application and attach your documentation.
- Attend the hearing, present your evidence calmly, and follow the tribunal order if one is issued.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything: receipts, photos, and written notices strengthen your case.
- Use written notices and follow provincial timelines to preserve your rights.
- Seek tenant advice early to avoid escalation and unexpected eviction risk.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Service NL - Residential tenancy information
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal and application forms
- Residential Tenancies Act and official guidance
