Student Rental Lease Rules in Newfoundland and Labrador

Student housing in Newfoundland and Labrador comes with unique considerations for both tenants and landlords. Whether you're renting privately or through a university, understanding your rights and responsibilities under local law is crucial. This guide highlights the key rules that apply specifically to student leases so you can rent with confidence.

Understanding the Basics: Student Leases and the Law in Newfoundland and Labrador

In Newfoundland and Labrador, student tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. This law governs most private and shared rentals, including student apartments, houses, and rooms.

• All written or oral rental agreements are covered by the RTA, including month-to-month and fixed-term leases.
• University-operated residences might have separate rules; always check your agreement if living on campus.
• Student status does not remove legal protections for rent, deposits, or maintenance.

For a full overview of tenant and landlord rights under the RTA, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Rental Deposits and Fees: What Does the Law Say?

Landlords can request a security deposit (also called a rental or damage deposit) in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, the rules are clear about the maximum amount and how this deposit must be handled:

• The security deposit cannot exceed three-quarters of one month's rent.
• Deposits must be placed in trust by the landlord and returned to the tenant (with interest) at the end of the tenancy, minus any deductions for damage outside normal wear and tear.
• No other upfront or non-refundable fees are legal unless specified in the RTA.

Students often move more than once during their studies. To protect your deposit, always get a written receipt and take photos when moving in and out. For a detailed look at your rights, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Lease Terms: Fixed, Short, or Month-to-Month Options

Student housing leases in Newfoundland and Labrador may be:

• Fixed-term (often September to April/May, matching the school year)
• Month-to-month (more flexible, can be ended with proper notice)

Both options come with legal responsibilities. If you signed a fixed-term lease, you are generally responsible for rent until the end of that term—even if you finish school or want to leave early.

Ending Your Lease Early? If you must end your lease before it expires (for example, after final exams or due to unexpected events), first speak to your landlord. You may be able to sublet or assign the lease, but you need landlord consent. It's important to follow the official process to avoid penalties. Learn more about responsible lease termination in What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.

Subletting and Roommate Changes

Sharing with roommates or subletting to another student over the summer is common. Under the RTA, you have the right to sublet or assign your lease, but you must have your landlord's written approval, and you may need to complete a form:

• Form: Notice of Assignment/Sublet (Form N9)
• Use this if you want to transfer (assign) your lease or temporarily sublet.
• Download Form N9 – Notice of Assignment/Sublet (pdf)

Example: You finish exams in April and want another student to take over your lease for the summer. Complete and submit the N9 form to your landlord for approval before the new tenant moves in.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Health Concerns

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must provide safe, healthy, and well-maintained housing. This includes working heat, clean running water, secure entryways, and fire safety measures. It's important to report problems—like broken appliances or pests—right away.

If you encounter persistent health issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting to learn your options for dealing with unresolved hazards or code violations.

Your Rights After Signing the Lease

Once your lease is signed and your deposit is paid, you have the right to privacy, repairs within reasonable time frames, and a written rent receipt. Keep all documents and communications for your records. For a list of immediate steps to take after move-in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Official Forms and Tribunal Support

The Residential Tenancies Office (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador) handles tenant-landlord disputes in the province. If you cannot resolve an issue with your landlord, you can apply here for mediation or a hearing. Common forms include:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTO) – Used if you wish to challenge a landlord's decision, dispute an eviction, or resolve deposit issues. Download the official form.
• Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement (Form N4) – Used to give official notice as a tenant or landlord. See the form here.

How to use: For example, if you want to leave at the end of term, fill out Form N4 and provide sufficient notice as required by the RTA. For disputes, complete Form RTO and send it to the Residential Tenancies Office, which will arrange a hearing if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Student Rentals in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a student?
   Landlords cannot deny you a rental based on being a student alone, unless the unit requires adult-only occupation for legal or health/safety reasons.
2. What if I need to break my lease early for academic reasons?
   You may only break your lease early with the agreement of your landlord or by following official processes like subletting or assignment using the proper notice and forms.
3. How much notice must I give to move out when my lease ends?
   For month-to-month leases, you must give a written notice of at least one month's rent period. For fixed-term leases, ensure your notice matches the end date of your agreement and use Form N4.
4. Can I get my deposit back if I move out at the end of the school year?
   Yes, if you've met all conditions (no damage, proper notice, no rent owing), your landlord must return your deposit with interest.
5. What should I do if repairs aren't being made?
   Document the issue, communicate in writing with your landlord, and if unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for support.

Key Takeaways for Student Renters

• Student leases in Newfoundland and Labrador fall under the Residential Tenancies Act—know your protections
• Always use official forms when subletting, breaking a lease, or applying for dispute resolution
• Keep detailed records for all agreements and communications

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office, NL – Start here for official forms, guides, and dispute applications
• Application for Hearing (Form RTO)
• Notice to Terminate Rental Agreement (Form N4)
• Memorial University Housing Services – For on-campus and student support
• For more details about your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2000, c. R-14.1. Read the full Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancies Office NL: https://www.gov.nl.ca/dgsnl/res/st/

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