Newfoundland and Labrador Tenant FAQs: Maintenance & Repairs Explained

Maintenance issues and repairs are among the most common concerns for renters in Newfoundland and Labrador. Knowing your rights—and your landlord’s obligations—can help you resolve problems faster, keep your rental safe, and avoid costly disputes. This guide covers frequently asked questions about what’s required under the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador), and where to turn if repairs go unresolved.

Understanding Repair Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have legal responsibilities for repair and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown:

• Landlords must keep the rental in a "good state of repair," fit for habitation, and compliant with health and safety laws.
• Tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and tell their landlord promptly about repairs needed.

For a deeper overview, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What does "good state of repair" mean?

This means the property must be safe and liveable. Structural issues, plumbing, heating, and appliances provided under the lease must function properly. Problems like no heat in winter, serious leaks, or broken locks typically require immediate attention.

Reporting Repairs

If you spot an issue, quickly inform the landlord in writing (email is acceptable). Include details and photos when possible. This paper trail is important if disputes arise later.

Emergency vs. Routine Repairs

Not all repair needs are equal. Newfoundland and Labrador distinguishes between "emergency repairs" and less urgent maintenance:

• Emergency Repairs: Issues that make the unit uninhabitable or pose a danger (major leaks, no heat in winter, gas leaks).
• Routine Repairs: Matters such as leaking faucets, minor appliance fixes, or slow drains.

If your landlord does not act quickly on emergencies, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for help.

Official Forms for Repair Disputes

• Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12.0): Use this if your landlord won't address necessary repairs. Verify the latest Form 12.0 here. Example: The heat hasn’t worked for days despite written requests, so you apply for an order requiring repairs.
• Notice to Enter (Form 6.0): Landlords use this to provide tenants with at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering for non-emergency repairs. Tenants should know landlords cannot enter without proper notice except during emergencies. See official Form 6.0.

When Repairs Affect Your Health or Safety

If a problem threatens your health or safety and is not fixed promptly, you may be able to apply for rent abatement or terminate your lease early, but only with approval from the Residential Tenancies Office. Never withhold rent without legal advice or official approval.

Common Problems and Practical Steps

• Pest infestations: Usually, the landlord must provide pest-free premises at move-in and address infestations unless you caused them. Learn more in Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
• Delayed routine repairs: Document the issue, send polite reminders, and, if unresolved, consider a written complaint to the landlord before applying to the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Major repairs: For extensive delays in urgent repairs, refer to Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Summary: Persistent or urgent repair needs should be documented in writing. Seek guidance before taking further steps such as rent reductions or moving out.

Provincial Rights and Legislation

Your rights around maintenance and repairs are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador). For a broad overview of local regulations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Rental Maintenance in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Who is responsible for routine repairs in my unit?
   Landlords are responsible for most repairs not caused by tenant damage. Tenants must promptly report issues and handle minor cleaning or daily upkeep.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores repair requests?
   No. Withholding rent without a Residential Tenancies Office order can risk eviction. If repairs are urgent and not addressed, apply for a hearing or advice.
3. What should I do in a maintenance emergency?
   Try to contact your landlord first. If unreachable or they refuse, document the issue, keep receipts for any urgent professional repairs, and notify the landlord. Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if there is a disagreement over costs.
4. Is my landlord allowed to enter to do repairs at any time?
   No. Landlords must give 24 hours’ written notice (Form 6.0), except in emergencies.

How To: Address Unresolved Repair Issues

1. How do I apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if my landlord won’t fix critical repairs?
   1. Inform your landlord in writing about the repair need.
   2. If not fixed promptly, complete Form 12.0 (Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution).
   3. Gather supporting evidence (emails, photos, receipts).
   4. Submit the form to the nearest Residential Tenancies Office.
   5. Attend the hearing and present your evidence.
   You may be ordered rent abatement or require the repairs be made.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always inform your landlord of repair needs in writing and keep records.
• Understand the difference between emergency and routine repairs; act quickly on urgent problems.
• Do not withhold rent. Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (Newfoundland and Labrador): For dispute applications, forms, and guidance.
• Provincial Department of Digital Government and Service NL – Landlord and Tenant Info
• Community Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador: Offers guidance for tenants by phone or online.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Office, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
3. [3] Official Landlord and Tenant Forms (Service NL)

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