Newfoundland and Labrador Tenant Guide: What If You Don't Pay the New Rent?

Receiving news of a rent increase can be stressful for tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador, especially if the new rent is difficult to afford. Knowing what happens if you don't pay the new rent amount is crucial for protecting your rights and making informed decisions. This article explains the process, your options, and where to get support if you're struggling to pay increased rent under local tenancy laws.

How Rent Increases Work in Newfoundland and Labrador

Landlords are allowed to raise the rent, but only by following rules set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. They must give at least 6 months’ written notice before the increase takes effect. If you have a fixed-term lease, the rent usually can't be increased during the term unless your agreement allows it. For more details on rent increases, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What If You Don't Pay the New Rent?

If you don’t pay the increased rent after it takes effect (and after proper notice was given), your payment will be considered late or missing under your rental agreement. Here’s what can happen next:

• Your landlord may issue a formal notice demanding payment of the outstanding rent.
• If you still do not pay, your landlord can begin the eviction process.
• Non-payment of rent is legally recognized as valid grounds for eviction.

However, you still have rights throughout this process, and there are steps you can take to avoid losing your home.

Eviction Process for Non-Payment of Rent

Eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador is strictly regulated. Landlords must follow official steps as outlined by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), which is the government body overseeing tenant-landlord disputes.

Required Notice: Form A - Notice to Terminate (for Non-Payment of Rent)

If rent is not paid on time, the landlord fills out Form A: Notice to Terminate (Non-Payment of Rent). This form notifies you that your tenancy will end unless you pay the overdue rent within 10 days. Download the form and read details here: Form A – Notice to Terminate (Non-Payment of Rent).^[1]

• When used: After you miss a rent payment or do not pay the new rent amount.
• Your options: Pay the rent owing within 10 days to stop the eviction, or dispute the notice if you believe there's a mistake.

Filing an Application with the Residential Tenancies Office

If the rent remains unpaid after the 10-day notice, the landlord may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an official eviction order. Tenants are entitled to attend a hearing to explain their situation or provide evidence.

Your Rights and Options as a Tenant

• If you pay the overdue rent within the 10-day window, the eviction process stops.
• You can attend the RTO hearing to present your side if you have a valid reason for not paying (such as not receiving proper notice).
• Tenants struggling with affordability may seek rental assistance. Government and community programs are designed to help eligible renters in difficulty.

For more on handling rent payments and your legal obligations, visit Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Tip: If you receive a notice for non-payment, act quickly. Communicating with your landlord and keeping records can make a difference.

What if the Rent Hike Feels Unfair or Improper?

If you think your landlord didn’t follow the law in increasing the rent (for instance, not giving enough notice or trying to raise it more than once a year), you can dispute the increase by applying to the Residential Tenancies Office. See the complete list of your rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Affordable Housing Supports

Struggling to afford the new rent? Provincial and municipal rental assistance programs may help.

• Contact Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation for information on subsidies and eligibility requirements.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you need to search for more affordable options or compare prices in your area.

What to Do: Step-by-Step for Tenants

• 1. Review the rent increase notice: Confirm whether the notice was given properly (at least 6 months, in writing).
• 2. Decide if you can pay the new rent: If you can’t, contact your landlord to discuss possible arrangements.
• 3. Respond quickly if you receive a "Notice to Terminate": Pay the arrears within 10 days, or contact the RTO to dispute the notice.
• 4. Attend any scheduled RTO hearings: Bring any evidence (notices, payment receipts, communications).
• 5. Explore rental assistance: Reach out to housing support programs if affordability is your main concern.
• 6. Consider your options: If you need to find a new place, start searching early and review guides like Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Staying informed about your obligations and the proper procedures can help you avoid unnecessary stress and disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord evict me if I do not pay the increased rent?
   Yes, after following proper legal notice, a landlord can begin eviction for non-payment.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   Landlords must provide at least 6 months’ written notice before the new rent takes effect in Newfoundland and Labrador.
3. What happens if I pay the overdue rent after receiving an eviction notice?
   Paying the rent within the 10-day notice period usually stops the eviction process.
4. Can I dispute a rent increase that I think is unfair?
   Yes. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to dispute improper or illegal rent increases.
5. Where do I find help if I can’t afford my new rent?
   Contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation for information on rental assistance programs and subsidies.

Key Takeaways

• Missing payment of the new rent can lead to formal eviction steps, but you have time to pay and ways to respond.
• Legal notices, such as the Form A notice, must be used before eviction. Know your rights and options at every stage.
• Rental assistance programs and housing supports may help if affordability is the issue.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Tenant-landlord dispute resolution, hearings, and official forms. Phone: (709) 729-2608 or toll-free 1-877-829-2608
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation – Rental subsidies, affordable housing, and support programs
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a complete overview of your rights and laws

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1. Form A, Notice to Terminate (Non-Payment of Rent), Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: Download Form A
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL): Read the Act on the Government of NL website
3. Residential Tenancies Office: Contact and information
4. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation: Rental assistance and programs

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