Tenant Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador: A Complete Guide

If you are renting a home or apartment in Newfoundland and Labrador, it's important to understand your tenant rights and responsibilities under local law. This guide covers key protections, the role of the Residential Tenancies Board, how to deal with common issues, and the most important forms and procedures that every tenant should know.

Key Tenant Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. These laws ensure both tenants and landlords have clear obligations and entitlements during a tenancy.

• Right to a safe, healthy living environment
• Right to privacy and quiet enjoyment
• Right to proper notice before rent increases or entry
• Protection from unfair eviction
• Right to dispute resolution via the Residential Tenancies Board

Each right is balanced by tenant responsibilities, like paying rent on time and keeping the unit reasonably clean.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Board

The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) is the provincial body that resolves landlord-tenant disputes, enforces legislation, and provides official forms for rent, deposit, and repair issues¹.

Leases, Deposits, and Moving In

Most rental agreements in the province are written, but even oral agreements are legally binding. Before moving in, landlords may collect a security deposit (maximum amount: three-quarters of one month's rent).

• Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know

Your rights and responsibilities usually start as soon as you sign a lease or move in—whichever comes first.

What Are Your Responsibilities After Signing?

After signing a rental agreement, tenants must follow lease terms, pay rent on time, and contact the landlord about needed repairs. For more on your obligations, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Rent, Rent Increases, and Paying on Time

Landlords must give at least 8 weeks’ written notice before increasing rent in most cases. Rent can only be increased once in a 12-month period. Paying rent on time every month is a tenant requirement, and late payment can lead to legal action or eviction after proper notice. Tenants should keep records of all payments (receipts, bank transfers, etc.).

Health, Safety, and Repairs

Landlords are responsible for ensuring your rental meets health and safety standards and completing most major repairs unless you or your guests caused the damage. As a tenant, you should:

• Report needed repairs to the landlord (ideally in writing)
• Keep smoke detectors in working order
• Notify your landlord quickly about urgent safety concerns

For more on your legal safety and maintenance protections, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Ending a Tenancy and Eviction Protection

To end a rental agreement, tenants must provide written notice using official RTB forms, giving at least one rental period notice (e.g., one month for monthly rentals). Landlords generally require legal grounds and proper notice to end a tenancy.

Key Official Forms for Tenants

• Form: Notice of Termination – Tenant to Landlord
  Use this form to terminate your tenancy agreement correctly. Download from the official RTB forms page.
• Form: Application to Residential Tenancies Board
  Submit this form to request dispute resolution regarding maintenance, eviction, or other tenancy issues. Access the application here. It's often used in cases such as unpaid repairs or contested evictions. After filing, tenants may be required to attend a hearing.

Dispute Resolution and Your Rights

If there is a disagreement with your landlord—about repairs, deposits, eviction, or anything else—you can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board. The process is designed to be accessible, so you do not need a lawyer. Hearings are held by phone or online, with decisions binding for both parties.

For a complete overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

You can also Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Houseme’s up-to-date listings and interactive tools.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord enter my home without notice?
   No. Except in an emergency, landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, and entry must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
2. How much notice must I give if I want to move out?
   In a month-to-month tenancy, tenants must provide one full rental period’s written notice to the landlord. Use the official Notice of Termination form from the RTB.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
   First, request repairs in writing. If the issue is unresolved, you can file an Application to the Residential Tenancies Board for dispute resolution.
4. Is my security deposit refundable?
   Yes. If you meet all obligations (rent paid, no damage beyond normal wear, required notice is given), your deposit should be returned within 10 days, along with any applicable interest.
5. Where can I go for tenant support in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   You can contact the Residential Tenancies Board or local tenant advocacy organizations for free assistance (see resources below).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.
• Use official RTB forms for all important notices and disputes.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Board for help with unresolved issues or unfair treatment.

Staying informed and communicating in writing helps protect your interests during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Board (RTB): Official RTB website, provides forms, guidelines, and dispute resolution. Phone: 709-729-2608 / Toll-Free: 1-877-829-2608
• RTB Forms and Applications: Download all forms here
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2018: Full text of the law
• Public Legal Information Association of NL (PLIAN): Free information and advice

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1. Residential Tenancies Board of Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (official full text)

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