Short-Term vs Long-Term Rental Rules: NL Tenant Guide

In Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s important for tenants to understand the differences between short-term rentals (like Airbnb or vacation stays) and long-term tenancies (typical month-to-month or yearly rental agreements). Knowing the rules for each will help protect your rights, avoid problems with your rental, and ensure you’re covered by the law—as not all arrangements offer the same legal protections or responsibilities.

Understanding Short-Term Rentals vs. Long-Term Tenancies

Short-term rentals are stays typically lasting less than 30 days, often arranged through platforms like Airbnb or for vacation purposes. Long-term tenancies usually mean renting a home or apartment as your main residence for a set term or on a month-to-month basis.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Short-term rentals are not covered by Newfoundland and Labrador’s landlord-tenant laws in the same way as long-term tenancies.
• Long-term tenancies are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 ^[1] and are subject to rules for rent, deposits, repairs, notice periods, and more.

For most tenant rights and responsibilities, the main difference is whether you live there as your primary residence and for how long the agreement lasts.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador?

The official body for residential tenant-landlord issues is the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO). This tribunal enforces rules for long-term residential tenancies—not for most short-term or tourist rentals.

What Makes a Rental "Long-Term"?

In NL, any rental agreement of 30 days or longer, where the property is your main home, is usually considered a long-term tenancy. These arrangements give you rights under the law, such as:

• Protection against unfair eviction and rent increases
• The right to reasonable privacy and notice for landlord entry
• Access to official forms and dispute resolution

If you’re entering a long-term agreement, it’s crucial to know what’s expected after you sign. See What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for a practical rundown of your next steps.

Short-Term Rentals: Are You a Tenant Under NL Law?

Short-term rental arrangements—for example, a two-week Airbnb stay or a vacation sublet—are often considered "licensees," not tenants. This means you may not be protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 in the same way long-term renters are.

• There is usually no requirement for the property owner to use RTO forms or follow tenant eviction laws for short-term stays.
• Disputes may need to be resolved privately or through the booking platform (like Airbnb’s dispute resolution process).

Always ask before booking: Is this considered a tenancy under NL law?

Forms and Official Processes for Long-Term Tenancies

If your tenancy is covered by the law, there are official forms to know. Here are some key examples in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Notice of Termination (Form RT-DR-001): This form is used by landlords or tenants to end a tenancy agreement. For example, if you need to move out at the end of your lease, use this form to give written notice. Find the Notice of Termination here.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RT-DR-002): Use this form to apply to the RTO if you have a dispute—such as withheld deposit or problems with repairs. Download Dispute Resolution forms and learn more.

You should always use official documents and keep copies for your records. Processing is handled by the Residential Tenancies Office.

Deposits and Rent Payments

With long-term rentals, landlords may require a security deposit. For detailed information, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. Always obtain a receipt and know your rights regarding interest and return of deposits.

How Do These Rules Affect My Rights?

When renting long-term, tenants have clearly defined rights and responsibilities—as do landlords. This includes protections from sudden eviction, processes for routine and emergency repairs, and rights related to rent increases or lease renewals.

Explore full details of Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

If you’re searching for a new home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for verified listings and tenant support.

FAQ: Newfoundland & Labrador Tenant Questions

1. Are short-term rentals like Airbnb considered tenancies in NL?
   Usually not. These are typically seen as "license" agreements, so regular tenant protections under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 don’t always apply.
2. Do I need to sign a written agreement for a long-term rental?
   While oral agreements are valid, having a written contract is always safest. It clarifies everyone’s rights and responsibilities and can be enforced by the Residential Tenancies Office if needed.
3. Can I get my deposit back after moving out?
   Yes, if you properly end your long-term tenancy and leave the property in good condition, you’re entitled to have your deposit returned. See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for more info.
4. Which law protects tenants in NL long-term rentals?
   The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 sets the rules for long-term residential leases in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Short-term rental stays (like Airbnbs) are generally not protected by the same laws as long-term tenancies
• For long-term rentals, use written agreements and official forms; your rights are protected under provincial law
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for help with long-term rental problems

Awareness of your rental type and rights helps you avoid issues and ensure fair treatment.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), Government of Newfoundland and Labrador – forms, dispute resolution, and tenant resources
• Official NL Tenancy Forms – notices, applications, and guides
• Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL)
2. Residential Tenancies Office, Newfoundland and Labrador