Tenant Rights: Broken Locks on Windows and Doors in NL

Feeling secure in your rental home is essential. In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenants have the right to a safe and healthy living environment—which includes properly locking doors and windows. If you discover that a lock on your door or window is broken or doesn’t work as it should, it’s important to understand your legal rights and what steps you can take to ensure repairs are completed.

Why Working Locks Matter for Tenants' Safety

Locks that function properly protect you, your belongings, and other occupants in your home. This is not only a personal safety matter, but also a core legal obligation for landlords to provide a rental unit that is safe and secure.

Your Rights Under Newfoundland and Labrador Law

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 ensures tenants in the province have the right to reasonable enjoyment and safety in their homes¹. Unsafe locks or security issues may violate these rights. Landlords must keep the rental property in a "good state of repair," including fixing broken or faulty window and door locks.

Who Is Responsible for Lock Repairs?

Landlords are required to carry out necessary repairs and maintenance, including ensuring all doors and windows can be locked securely. Unless you or a guest caused the damage through misuse or negligence, you won't typically be responsible for paying for the repair of broken locks.

• Landlords must respond promptly to repair requests about locks or other entry points.
• Tenants do not have the right to make significant changes to locks without landlord permission (unless in emergencies).

If you notice locks that do not work properly when you move in, document it in your initial inspection and report it immediately. Review the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for best practices on documenting move-in conditions.

Reporting and Repair Process: What Tenants Should Do

If you discover an issue with a lock on a door or window:

• Notify your landlord in writing (keep a copy for your records)
• Describe the problem clearly—include which window or door is affected, and how (e.g., won't latch, key won't turn)
• Request repairs within a reasonable timeframe (typically within a few days for locks, as safety is involved)

If your landlord fails to respond, you may have the right to take additional action through the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL—the official tribunal that handles tenancy matters. Learn more at the Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL).

Forms and How to File a Complaint or Request Repairs

If your landlord does not address the repair after written notice, you can apply for a dispute resolution through Service NL:

• Form 12: Application for Dispute Resolution
• Use this form if you need an official order for repairs or want to request a rent reduction because of unresolved security issues.
• Find the form and its instructions here: Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12)

Example: If you've emailed your landlord about a back door lock that doesn't latch and weeks pass without action, submit a Form 12 to Service NL, attaching your written requests as proof. The tribunal can then order your landlord to fix the lock within a set period.

Health and Safety Considerations

Broken locks are more than a nuisance—they are a safety hazard and a potential health issue. They may affect your insurance coverage or violations could qualify as valid grounds for a tenant complaint. For a broader overview, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Tip: Always keep records of communication with your landlord—this is essential if you need to escalate or prove you acted promptly.

Routine and Emergency Repairs

Broken locks on entry doors are often considered urgent. While interior window locks might be considered a routine repair, broken locks on main doors typically require immediate action. Landlords must act quickly to resolve these urgent safety issues. To better understand what counts as an emergency versus a routine repair, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Summary: If your windows or doors don't lock in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have clear rights to request timely repairs—as locks are fundamental to your safety and legal enjoyment of your home under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. Learn more about broader legal protections at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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FAQ: Tenant Security and Repairs in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request for a door lock?
   Document your written request, then apply for dispute resolution with Service NL using Form 12. Attach your evidence to support your case.
2. Can I change the locks myself if I feel unsafe?
   Tenants should not change locks without landlord consent except in an emergency. If you must, inform your landlord and provide a copy of the new key.
3. Is a broken window lock an emergency repair?
   If the window affects your security (e.g., ground floor), it may be considered urgent. Otherwise, it is a routine repair, but landlords must still fix it within a reasonable time.
4. Do I have to pay for lock repairs if I didn't cause the damage?
   No, unless you or your guests broke the lock. Typically, the landlord is responsible for wear-and-tear and malfunctioning locks.
5. Who enforces tenant rights about security in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   The Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL) manages complaints and enforces legislation on rentals.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide working locks on doors and windows for your safety.
• Always report broken locks in writing and keep communication records.
• Apply to the tribunal if repairs are ignored—safety is your right.

Staying informed helps you maintain a safe, secure rental home and respond confidently to issues if they arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL): Application forms, guides, and tenant/landlord support
• Phone: 1-877-829-2608 (Toll-free in Newfoundland and Labrador)
• Email: rentals@gov.nl.ca
• Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador: Free legal information and referrals for tenants

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Residential Tenancies Section (Service NL)
3. Dispute Resolution Forms (Service NL)

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