Who is responsible for clearing snow and ice?
Responsibility often depends on whether the area is a shared or private space. In many rental situations the landlord or property manager must maintain common walkways, stairs and parking areas, while tenants are typically expected to clear a private entrance or porch. Check your lease for specific clauses and local rules under the provincial residential tenancy framework[2]. If your building has a snow-clearing contract, the property owner remains accountable to ensure work is done promptly and safely.
Common scenarios
- Timelines for clearing high-traffic sidewalks
- Tenant duty to keep a private entrance accessible
- Reporting unsafe conditions and requesting repairs
- When a fall leads to a hearing or claim
For a quick overview of renter safety obligations and habitability issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. For a summary of rights and obligations specific to this province, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
How to document hazards and protect your rights
- Take dated photos and videos showing the exact location and extent of snow or ice
- Keep a written log of dates, times and communications with your landlord or building manager
- Send written requests for clearing or repairs and keep copies of emails or letters
- Collect witness names and contact details if someone else saw the hazard or an incident
Official forms and when to use them
If informal requests do not resolve the issue, tenants may file an application with the provincial residential tenancy body or tribunal. Common documents include the application form for dispute resolution and any incident or claim forms used by the tribunal[1]. Example: if repeated requests to clear a shared walkway are ignored and an injury occurs, you would gather photos, your communication log and then submit an application to the tribunal asking for an order to force repairs or compensation.
Preventive steps and safety tips
- Keep salt or sand on hand and ask for permission if you need to use it on a shared surface
- Report hazards promptly and follow up in writing
- Wear slip-resistant footwear and use handrails where available
FAQ
- Who pays if I slip on ice at the rental entrance?
- Liability depends on where the slip happened and the lease terms. Landlords usually cover common areas; tenants may be responsible for private entrances. Document the hazard and notify your landlord in writing immediately.
- How long should I wait for snow removal before taking further action?
- There is no single timeline; reasonable time depends on severity and local standards. If the landlord does not act after a written request, collect evidence and consider applying to the tribunal for a remedy.
- Can I clear snow myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Do not unilaterally deduct costs unless your lease or the tribunal explicitly allows it. Instead, keep receipts and seek compensation through the official dispute process if the landlord refuses to pay.
How-To
- Document the hazard with photos, video and a dated written note.
- Notify your landlord in writing, describing the hazard and requesting action.
- Allow a reasonable time for the landlord to respond; follow up if there is no action.
- If unresolved, submit an application to the residential tenancy tribunal with your evidence.
- Attend any scheduled hearing and bring originals of your photos, log and communications.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
- Landlord and tenant information — Service NL
- Residential Tenancies Act — Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
