Finding and keeping a rental can be harder for tenants who have a criminal record. This page explains practical steps for renters in Newfoundland and Labrador to protect housing rights, respond to tenant screening, and use official complaint routes. You will learn what landlords can and cannot ask, how to document applications and refusals, what forms to file with the provincial tenancy office, and where to get legal help. The guide uses plain language and gives examples tenants can follow when checking listings, applying, or disputing a refusal. If you are worried about background checks, screening criteria, or deposit requests, this resource helps you prepare clear evidence and take the right steps in Newfoundland and Labrador.
What the law says in Newfoundland and Labrador
Landlords and tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador are governed by provincial tenancy rules and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. If you face screening, ask for a written reason and note relevant dates. See provincial guidance and summaries at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador and official resources for forms and dispute procedures.[1][2]
Can a landlord refuse a tenant because of a criminal record?
Short answer: landlords may consider safety and liability, but a blanket ban on people with records can amount to unfair treatment. Ask for a clear, written reason if you are refused. You can supply evidence of rehabilitation, references, or propose conditions such as a higher deposit or co-signer.
- Ask the landlord for a written notice explaining the decision.
- Gather supporting documents: reference letters, records of rehabilitation, or proof of stable income.
- Offer to pay a larger deposit or prepay a portion of rent if allowed under local rules.
How to respond to screening and refusals
Follow clear steps to preserve your rights and build a case if you need to challenge a refusal.
- Document every application and any communication from the landlord, including dates and names.
- Request the reason in writing so you can respond or file a complaint with evidence.
- Note deadlines for filing applications with the tenancy office or tribunal; missing deadlines can limit options.
Official forms and when to use them
Use official forms to apply for dispute resolution or to respond to notices. Two common examples:
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Form RT-01). Use this form when a landlord refuses you unfairly or you need to challenge a notice; for example, if you were denied housing without a clear safety reason you can file RT-01 to request a hearing with the tribunal.[1]
- Notice to End Tenancy (Form RT-02). Landlords use this to end a tenancy for specific reasons; if you receive RT-02 check the stated reason and deadline, and respond or apply to the tribunal to dispute it.
For help understanding allowable deposits and what a landlord may charge, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and search listings carefully with reputable tools like Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can a landlord run a criminal background check in Newfoundland and Labrador?
- Yes, they can ask for information related to safety, but they must act reasonably and not apply a blanket exclusion without assessing risk.
- What can I do if I am refused housing because of my record?
- Request a written reason, gather evidence of rehabilitation and strong tenancy references, and consider filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[1]
- Are there timelines to challenge a refusal or notice?
- Yes. Deadlines vary, so request written reasons quickly and contact the tribunal or legal help to meet filing timelines.
How-To
- Gather documents: identity, proof of income, references, and any rehabilitation or pardon records.
- Request a written reason for refusal from the landlord and save the response.
- Check filing deadlines and prepare the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
- File the application and attend the hearing with organized evidence and witnesses where possible.
Key Takeaways
- Document every application and communication when applying for rental housing.
- Ask for written reasons and use official forms to challenge unfair refusals.
- Use provincial resources and legal help quickly to meet deadlines.
