Shelters & Transitional Housing for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

If you’re a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador facing eviction, homelessness, or housing insecurity, knowing your options is critical. The province has a network of emergency shelters and transitional housing facilities designed to provide short- and medium-term relief while you plan your next steps. In this guide, you’ll find official resources, practical advice, and essential forms for tenants in need.

What Are Community Shelters and Transitional Housing?

Community shelters offer temporary, emergency accommodation for individuals and families who have nowhere else to go. Transitional housing, on the other hand, provides more stability—usually with support services—to help people move towards permanent housing solutions.

• Emergency shelters: Short-term, basic accommodations available immediately for those facing homelessness
• Transitional housing: Longer-term housing with additional support (counselling, job help, life skills)

Both options are crucial if you have been evicted, are escaping unsafe living conditions, or need help between rentals.

Shelters and Transitional Housing Contacts in Newfoundland and Labrador

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador maintains a Shelter and Supportive Housing Directory, listing shelters by region for adults, youth, and families. The directory is updated regularly and includes direct contact numbers and addresses for each site.

• Newfoundland and Labrador Shelter and Supportive Housing Directory

You can also call the provincial emergency shelter line at 1-833-724-2444 (1-833-SHELTER) (available 24/7) for immediate assistance.

Specialized Shelter Services

• Women’s and family shelters
• Youth shelters (ages 16-29)
• Supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness or fleeing domestic violence
• Access to meals, basic health services, and connections to community supports

Many shelters will help you connect with housing support workers, legal aid, and addiction or mental health services if needed.

Your Rights as a Tenant After Eviction

Even after an eviction, tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have certain protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (NL).^[1] It’s important to know what steps to take and which official bodies to contact.

The Residential Tenancies Office handles all landlord-tenant matters in the province, including disputes and information requests. You can apply for a hearing if you believe your eviction wasn’t handled correctly, or if you need help recovering a rental deposit.

If you need more background on tenant protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a summary of your provincial rights.

Key Official Forms for Tenants

After an eviction or if you’re trying to regain access to your rental deposit or dispute a landlord action, you may need to use official government forms. Here are some of the most common:

• Application for Dispute Resolution – Form 12 (Download Form 12)
  Use this form to request a hearing at the Residential Tenancies Office (for example, if you feel your eviction was unlawful or your landlord withheld your deposit unfairly).
• Notice to Landlord – Address for Service – Form 1A (Download Form 1A)
  If you need to officially update your contact details or correspondence address post-eviction, submit Form 1A to your former landlord.

Completed forms can be emailed or delivered to your local Residential Tenancies Office. For instructions, see contact and office locations.

What to Do If You Can’t Find Immediate Housing

If you are unable to secure a new rental home right away, make safety and shelter your priority. Shelters are designed as a short-term measure; start actively searching for longer-term solutions as soon as possible. Use shelter staff and housing outreach workers to explore all available options and to help you navigate provincial and municipal waiting lists for subsidized or supportive housing.

Applying for Assistance and Moving Forward

Many tenants worry about where to turn after facing a sudden or unexpected move. In addition to temporary shelters:

• Consider applying for income support or emergency financial assistance via Income Support (Government of NL)
• If health or safety conditions prompted your move, review your rights in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting
• Start your long-term rental search: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

Transitional housing programs can provide added stability while you wait for an apartment or social housing placement. Ask shelter staff about eligibility and referrals.

FAQ – Community Shelters and Transitional Housing for Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants

1. What should I bring to an emergency shelter? Most shelters can provide basic necessities, but bring personal ID, medications, hygiene items, and important documents if possible.
2. Can I apply for transitional housing directly? Transitional housing is usually accessed by referral through shelter staff, social workers, or the provincial housing authority.
3. Is there help for families with children? Yes, some shelters and transitional housing programs in Newfoundland and Labrador are specifically for families or single parents with children.
4. What rights do I have after eviction? You still have certain rights under the Residential Tenancies Act (NL), including the ability to dispute an eviction or claim your deposit through the Residential Tenancies Office.
5. How can I start a new rental after leaving a shelter? When you're ready to move, consider following advice from Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for a smooth transition.

Key Takeaways

• Newfoundland and Labrador offers a range of emergency shelters and transitional housing for tenants after eviction.
• Provincial offices and official forms can help you assert your rights and plan your next steps after a tenancy ends.
• Support is available for individuals and families—don't hesitate to reach out for help or legal guidance if you need it.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office, NL: Landlord-Tenant Information and Dispute Resolution (1-877-829-2608)
• 24/7 Emergency Shelter Line: 1-833-724-2444
• Income Support and Housing Assistance: Income Support (Government of NL)
• Learn more about your rights as a tenant: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador): View the full text of the Act
2. Residential Tenancies Office, NL: Official Tribunal Information
3. Provincial Shelter Directory: Find shelters and housing support

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