Tenant Steps if Facing Discrimination from Other Tenants in NL

If you experience discrimination from other tenants in your building in Newfoundland and Labrador, it can feel isolating and stressful. Knowing your rights and clear next steps can help you protect yourself, seek a resolution, and maintain your peace of mind. This guide outlines what to do, the protections offered by law, and how to get effective support.

Recognizing Discrimination by Other Tenants

Discrimination means being treated unfairly or harassed by others because of your race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics protected by law. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Human Rights Act, 2010 protects tenants from such unfair treatment. It applies to both landlords and tenants—including how tenants treat each other in rental housing.

Examples of discrimination by other tenants may include:

• Racist, sexist, or homophobic comments or actions
• Creating a hostile environment because of your religion or disability
• Refusing to let you use shared spaces based on a protected ground
• Bullying, intimidation, or threats connected to a personal characteristic

Your Rights as a Tenant

As a tenant, you have the right to live free from discrimination and harassment. Both your landlord and your fellow tenants must uphold these standards. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, your landlord has a responsibility to ensure your rental unit is a safe and healthy place to live.

More about your general rights and obligations as a tenant can be found here: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

What to Do if Another Tenant Discriminates Against You

Taking prompt action can help resolve the situation and document your experience.

• Document the behavior: Write down details about each incident (dates, times, what happened, and anyone who witnessed it).
• Talk to your landlord: Notify your landlord or property manager in writing. Ask them to address the discriminatory behavior, as they have a duty to provide a safe environment.
• Submit a formal complaint: If the issue persists or is severe, you may submit a complaint to the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Section or to the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.

If the situation impacts your health or safety, or if you feel threatened, contact local law enforcement immediately.

Official Forms for Reporting Discrimination

• Residential Tenancies – Tenant Application (Form 6): Use this form to request the Residential Tenancies Section to address an unresolved issue between tenants, especially if the landlord has not acted.
  Example: If you've reported discrimination to your landlord and nothing changes, submit this form to seek a hearing.
  Download Form 6 (Tenant Application)
• Human Rights Complaint Form: File this with the Human Rights Commission if the discrimination is because of a protected ground (e.g., race, disability).
  Example: Another tenant harasses you due to your religion—fill out this form to have the commission review your case.
  File a Human Rights Complaint

How the Process Works: Your Next Steps

• Keep records of all correspondence and incidents
• Submit the appropriate forms to the Residential Tenancies Section or the Human Rights Commission
• If you have a hearing, prepare by gathering all documents, witness statements, and evidence
• Follow up with any directions given by the tribunal or commission

For broad advice on handling tenant issues, you might also find How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide helpful.

The Landlord’s Role in Addressing Discrimination

Your landlord must take reasonable steps to address discrimination and harassment between tenants. This includes investigating complaints and taking action if one tenant is violating others' rights. You can learn more about mutual responsibilities in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Quick Summary

If you face discrimination from another tenant:

• Document all incidents thoroughly
• Report the problem in writing to your landlord
• File the correct forms if the issue persists
• Seek outside help from provincial authorities or human rights services when needed

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FAQs About Discrimination Between Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Is my landlord responsible if another tenant discriminates against me?
   Yes. Landlords must take reasonable action to address discrimination or harassment that occurs between tenants in the same property.
2. What should I include when reporting discrimination?
   Include specific details such as what happened, when, who was involved, where it took place, and whether you have any supporting evidence like texts or witness statements.
3. Can I move out if I feel unsafe due to discrimination?
   If your safety is at risk, speak with the Residential Tenancies Section. In severe cases, you may be able to end your lease early through the proper process.
4. Where can I get legal support as a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   You can contact the Public Legal Information Association of NL or the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission for free information and support.

Key Takeaways

• Other tenants are required by law not to discriminate against you
• Keep detailed records and act quickly
• Your landlord has a responsibility to address tenant-to-tenant discrimination
• Provincial bodies are available to support and protect your rights

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, NL Department of Digital Government and Service NL – advice, complaints, and forms
• Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission – file discrimination complaints and access resources
• Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador – free legal information

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018: Read the Residential Tenancies Act
2. Human Rights Act, 2010: See the Human Rights Act, 2010
3. Residential Tenancies Section, Government of NL: NL Residential Tenancies
4. Human Rights Commission, NL: Make a discrimination complaint

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