What tenants should know about security deposits
Security deposits are money a landlord may require to protect against unpaid rent or damage. As a renter in Newfoundland and Labrador, always get deposit terms in writing, request a dated receipt, and keep copies of the lease and receipts. Ask your landlord how the deposit will be held and whether it will earn interest under provincial rules. For a plain explanation of common deposit practices and tenant protections, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
How deposits should be recorded and held
Landlords must record deposit amounts and the reason for any deductions. Rules about where deposits are kept and whether interest must be paid vary by province, so check the official legislation and guidance for Newfoundland and Labrador before accepting any unilateral terms.[2]
Common tenant steps when paying a deposit
- Pay by traceable method and get a written receipt stating amount and purpose.
- Document unit condition with photos and a signed move-in inspection report.
- Ask how and when the deposit will be returned and where it will be held while you rent.
When and how deposits are returned
When your tenancy ends, provide a forwarding address in writing and complete a move-out inspection with the landlord when possible. If the landlord plans to deduct for damage, request an itemized list and receipts. If you disagree, you can attempt to resolve it directly, use mediation services where available, or file an application with the provincial residential tenancies office or board.[1]
Filing an application or dispute
If an agreement cannot be reached, tenants may file an application with the provincial tenancy board or tribunal to ask for return of the deposit or to dispute deductions. The main official form is typically titled an application to the Residential Tenancies Board or Tribunal; check the official forms page for the current PDF and instructions before filing.[3]
Example: If a landlord withholds $400 for alleged damage you dispute, collect your lease, receipts, photos, the move-in report, and any communication. Use those documents when you complete the official application form and attend the hearing.
For a targeted guide on getting a deposit back after moving out, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
If you are searching for a new rental or comparing landlord requirements about deposits, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to review listings and posted landlord policies.
FAQ
- Can my landlord ask for a security deposit?
- Yes. A landlord may request a security deposit if allowed by the lease and provincial rules. Always ask for a written receipt and check the Residential Tenancies Act for any limits or conditions.[2]
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Newfoundland and Labrador?
- The time allowed for returning a deposit is set by provincial rules and may be specified in the legislation or tribunal guidance; if a landlord does not return the deposit in the required time you can file an application with the residential tenancies office.[1]
- What can be deducted from a deposit?
- Landlords may deduct reasonable costs for repairs beyond normal wear and tear and unpaid rent, but they must provide an itemized list and receipts; tenants can dispute unreasonable deductions with the tribunal.
How-To
- Gather documents: lease, receipts, photos, move-in and move-out inspection reports, and any messages about the deposit.
- Complete the official application form from the residential tenancies office and attach your evidence.
- Submit the application and pay any filing fee according to the office instructions, keeping copies for your records.
- Attend the scheduled hearing or mediation and present your evidence clearly and concisely.
- If successful, follow the tribunal order to collect the awarded amount or ask about enforcement options if the landlord does not comply.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act and provincial statutes
- Official application forms and instructions for the residential tenancies process
