Tenant Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in Newfoundland and Labrador

Arriving as a newcomer or refugee in Newfoundland and Labrador can be overwhelming, especially when searching for a safe and comfortable place to live. Understanding your rights as a tenant will help you settle confidently into your new home, avoid common pitfalls, and know where to turn should problems arise. This guide explains essential tenancy laws, how to protect yourself, and connects you with helpful resources specific to Newfoundland and Labrador.

How Residential Tenancy Law Protects Newcomers and Refugees

Whether you are new to Canada, a refugee, or a long-term resident, tenant rights are protected equally under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1]. This law makes sure that all tenants and landlords have clear obligations, and it covers many situations unique to newcomers and refugees, such as language barriers or uncertainty about legal documents.

If you are unsure about local tenancy rules, consult the Residential Tenancies Office, which oversees rental disputes, forms, and information in the province.

Starting a Tenancy: Your Rights and What to Watch For

Before moving in, landlords may ask you to sign a rental agreement. You should always read and understand this document—ask for a translation if needed. Key points to remember:

• Landlords cannot discriminate based on your immigration status, nationality, or refugee claim.
• You are entitled to a written lease, which should specify the rental amount, services included, length of lease (if not month-to-month), and rules about ending the tenancy.
• Landlords can request a security deposit, but it cannot exceed three-quarters (3/4) of one month's rent.

For an in-depth look at deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Forms and Documents Newcomers Should Know

• Notice to Terminate (Form RT-DR1 or RT-DR2): Use when you want to end your tenancy (e.g., if you find better housing). Available from the Residential Tenancies Office Tenant Forms. Always keep a copy and give proper notice: one month for month-to-month rentals.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RT-DR3): If you have a serious problem (such as a landlord refusing repairs or not returning your deposit), file this form with the Residential Tenancies Office.
  For newcomers, help filling out forms is available by phone or in person at Residential Tenancies offices across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Your Right to a Safe and Healthy Home

Landlords must keep your unit in good repair and address health and safety issues, such as mould or heating problems. If something needs fixing, notify your landlord in writing, then follow up using the dispute forms above if nothing is done.

For more details, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Common Challenges for Newcomer Tenants (and How to Resolve Them)

Newcomers often face special hurdles, such as:

• Language barriers: Ask your landlord or the Residential Tenancies Office about interpreter support if you need help understanding documents.
• Discrimination: It's illegal for landlords to refuse you because you are a newcomer or refugee. If this occurs, file a complaint with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.
• Unfamiliar rental procedures: Common processes like paying rent, requesting repairs, and understanding lease terms may differ from your home country. Learn more in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Finding housing: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme, with an easy search for all provinces, including Newfoundland and Labrador.

Having support early prevents misunderstandings and protects your rights.

What Happens After You Sign a Lease?

Once your agreement is signed, you have ongoing rights and responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with what comes next in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for tips on paying rent, inspections, and resolving issues.

Remember: Keep copies of all documents and communications with your landlord. Written records can help if disputes arise.

FAQ About Tenant Rights for Newcomers and Refugees

1. Do I need Canadian citizenship or permanent residency to rent in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   No. Anyone legally in Canada can rent a home in Newfoundland and Labrador, including temporary residents, students, and refugees.
2. Is my deposit safe, and how do I get it back?
   Landlords must return your security deposit within two weeks of moving out, unless there are repair costs or unpaid rent. If there's a dispute, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t fix unsafe conditions?
   Notify your landlord in writing and, if nothing is done, submit an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Office.
4. Can my landlord evict me just because I am a refugee or newcomer?
   No. It is against the law to evict you for your immigration status or background. Only specific legal reasons allow eviction.
5. Where can I get tenancy information in languages other than English?
   The Residential Tenancies Office can often arrange interpreter support. Also, local immigrant service agencies can help translate key documents.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Newcomer Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

• All tenants—regardless of status—have equal rights under Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.
• Learn and use official forms for notices or complaints. Assistance is available for language support.
• Turn to the Residential Tenancies Office or local immigrant organizations for help with disputes or questions.

With this knowledge, settling into your new rental home will be smoother and safer.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office Newfoundland and Labrador – dispute resolution, forms, information, and support
• Official tenant and landlord forms
• Rental assistance for low-income families and newcomers
• Newfoundland and Labrador: Guide for International Students
• Settlement and Integration Services (NL Immigration)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. Residential Tenancies Office – Newfoundland and Labrador

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