Top 5 Eviction Facts Tenants Should Know in Newfoundland

If you're renting in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding how eviction works can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes. Knowing the basic rules—like what kind of notice a landlord must give, your options if you get an eviction notice, and what can pause or overturn an eviction—can make a difficult time less stressful.

Who Handles Evictions and Tenancy Disputes?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, residential tenancy matters, including evictions, are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Office. The laws and processes are set by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018¹.

1. Types of Eviction Notices and When They're Used

Landlords can end a tenancy for several reasons. Each reason requires a specific kind of notice:

• Notice for Non-Payment of Rent: If you haven’t paid your rent, your landlord can serve a 10-day termination notice. However, you can stop the eviction by paying the full rent (and any late fees) within those 10 days.
• Notice for Cause: This includes reasons like property damage, illegal activity, or disturbing other tenants. Tenants usually get a shorter notice period (often 5 days, depending on the violation).
• Notice for Personal Use or Sale: Landlords can end tenancy if they, or a close family member, plan to move in, or if they sell the unit or want to renovate. This often requires at least 3 months’ written notice.

Notices must be in writing and delivered according to the rules.

Relevant Official Forms

• Form L3: Notice of Termination — Used by landlords to inform tenants about ending the tenancy and the required notice period. Tenants should check this form for accuracy and whether the reason is legitimate. Available from the Residential Tenancies Office: Official Forms.
  Example: If your landlord gives you this form, read the ‘Reason for Termination’ to see if it matches your situation.

2. Your Right to Proper Notice

Your landlord must provide the correct amount of notice and use the appropriate form. If they don't, the eviction may not be valid.

• Notice must be in writing, include the reason, and state the date you must move out.
• For non-payment, you get 10 days; for personal use or major renovations, you get 3 months.

If you’re unsure, speak to the Residential Tenancies Office.

3. You Can Challenge or Dispute an Eviction

If you believe your eviction is unfair or not valid, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to dispute it.

• For non-payment, pay the rent in full within the notice period to stop the eviction.
• For other reasons, use the dispute process and request a hearing.

Form T1: Application for Dispute Resolution is used to challenge an eviction or other tenancy issue. Find it on the official forms page.
Example: If your landlord is ending your lease for renovations but you don’t believe it’s legitimate, fill out this form promptly.

If you get an eviction notice, act quickly. Missed deadlines can limit your options.

4. What Happens If You Don’t Move Out?

If you stay after the move-out date, your landlord must apply for an Order of Possession through the Residential Tenancies Office. They cannot change the locks or remove your belongings without this order.

• The Office will schedule a hearing and may grant more time if there are extenuating circumstances.

Learn more about your full set of rights and obligations under Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

5. Your Rights and Responsibilities Continue Until Tenancy Ends

Even after receiving a notice, both tenants and landlords must respect all parts of the rental agreement until the tenancy legally ends. That means paying rent, maintaining the unit, and letting each other know about any problems.

For a complete understanding of shared duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Summary

Understanding these eviction basics and acting fast if you get a notice can make a big difference. If in doubt, reach out for help—there are legal options and support available for tenants across Newfoundland and Labrador.

For those seeking a new home after eviction, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

1. Can my landlord evict me without written notice?
   No. Landlords must give you written notice, using the required forms, for almost all types of eviction.
2. How much notice must my landlord give to end my tenancy?
   It depends on the reason: 10 days for non-payment, 5 days for cause, and 3 months for landlord’s personal use or major renovations.
3. Can I dispute an eviction in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   Yes. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form T1 if you believe the eviction is not valid or unfair.
4. What if I need to move out because of an eviction?
   Use the time to find a place, and check out resources for Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

1. How do I file a dispute against an eviction notice?
   1. Get Form T1 from the official site.
   2. Fill out your personal and rental info.
   3. Clearly state why you dispute the eviction.
   4. Submit the form to the Residential Tenancies Office before your deadline.
   5. Attend the hearing and present any evidence, like emails or payment records.
2. How can I stop a non-payment eviction?
   Pay all rent owed (and any late fees) within the 10-day notice period. Keep proof of payment.
3. If I agree with the eviction, what should I do?
   Arrange your move, communicate with your landlord, and leave the unit clean to avoid further issues.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office — Newfoundland and Labrador
• Community Legal Information — NL
• Official Forms for Tenancies and Evictions

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

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