Top 5 Rent & Deposit Rules Every Tenant Must Know in NL

If you're renting in Newfoundland and Labrador, understanding your rights around rent and deposits can help you feel more secure and avoid costly mistakes. Knowing the rules on rental payments, deposits, rent increases, and move-out procedures ensures you and your landlord both meet provincial legal standards. Below are five crucial things every tenant in this province should know before and after moving into a rental home.

1. Security Deposit Rules in Newfoundland and Labrador

Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador can only collect a security deposit, not a 'damage deposit.' This deposit:

• Cannot exceed three-quarters of one month's rent.
• Must be held in a trust account by the landlord.
• Should not be used to cover ordinary wear and tear.

You should always get a receipt for your deposit. When you move out, the deposit (plus interest) must be returned unless there are unpaid rent or damages beyond normal use. For a complete overview, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Residential Tenancies Act: Your Legal Foundation

The main legislation covering rental agreements, rent, and deposits is the Residential Tenancies Act (SNL 2018 Chapter R-14.1).^[1] This law covers:

• How much rent can increase and when
• Deposit limits and return procedures
• Legal requirements for rental agreements
• Dispute resolution options

It's important to read your lease carefully and make sure it matches what the law allows. You can also check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador for a province-specific summary.

3. Rent Payments & Increases: Rules to Know

Rent should be paid in full and on time as agreed. Key things to remember:

• Your landlord cannot ask for post-dated cheques but may accept them if offered.
• Rent increases are only allowed once every 12 months, and you must get at least 8 weeks' written notice.
• There are no rent control limits on the amount of increase, but timing and notice are required by law.

If you face a rent increase and want to understand more about rent escalation, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know. Always request written proof of any change and keep your own records of rent payments and notices.

4. Required Forms and How to Use Them

Official government forms help protect both you and your landlord. Some important ones include:

• Security Deposit Form (RTB-2): Used when paying your deposit; ask for this from your landlord or download from the Service NL website. It is your proof of payment and deposit terms.
• Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement (RTB-5): Required if you wish to end your fixed-term or monthly lease. Must be completed and delivered in writing—see official government forms here.^[2]
• Application for Return of Security Deposit (RTB-9): If you're moving out and your deposit isn't returned as required, use this to apply for its return through the Residential Tenancies Section.

5. Getting Your Deposit Back: Moving Out Procedures

At the end of your tenancy, you have the right to receive your deposit (plus interest) back—unless there's damage beyond "reasonable wear and tear" or unpaid rent. To protect your rights:

• Give the proper written notice before moving out, using the official forms.
• Request an inspection when you leave to document the unit's condition.
• If the deposit is not returned, apply to the Residential Tenancies Section using RTB-9.
• Review steps in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

For more rental resources, you can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Rent & Deposit Questions for NL Tenants

1. How much can my landlord collect as a deposit?
   Landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador can collect a security deposit up to a maximum of three-quarters of one month's rent.
2. How do I get my deposit back when I move out?
   After your lease ends and you move out, your landlord must return your deposit plus interest within 15 days, provided there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear and no rent owing. If not returned, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Section.
3. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   Your landlord must give at least 8 weeks (56 days) written notice before increasing your rent, and increases are only allowed once every 12 months.
4. What official forms do I need to end my tenancy?
   You must use the "Notice to Terminate a Rental Agreement" form (RTB-5), available on the Service NL website, and provide the required notice period for your lease type.
5. Who can help if I have a dispute with my landlord?
   The Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL handles tenant-landlord disputes and provides resources and applications for complaints.

How To: Protect Your Security Deposit in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. What steps can I take to make sure I get my security deposit back?
   
   • Keep your payment receipt and fill in the RTB-2 form when moving in.
   • Document the apartment's condition with photos and request a move-in inspection.
   • Meet your lease obligations (pay rent, avoid property damage).
   • Give the correct written notice using RTB-5 if you plan to move out.
   • Request a move-out inspection; if the deposit isn’t returned, submit RTB-9 to the Residential Tenancies Section.
2. How do I dispute a deposit if my landlord refuses to return it?
   Gather your proof (deposit receipt, inspection reports, correspondence), fill out the RTB-9 application, and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Section with all relevant documentation.
3. How can I check if my rent increase is lawful?
   Ensure the notice is given in writing at least 8 weeks in advance, and that only one increase is issued every 12 months.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always follow official procedures for deposits, rent payments, and notices to avoid unnecessary disputes.
• Return of deposits is protected by law—use the right forms and know your timelines.
• If uncertain, consult official resources or provincial tenant services for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL – Main authority on landlord/tenant issues, applications, and forms
• Residential Tenancies Act, NL (SNL 2018 Chapter R-14.1)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador – Quick legal facts for NL

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1. [1] See: Residential Tenancies Act (SNL 2018 Chapter R-14.1)
2. [2] NL Government Residential Tenancy Forms: Service NL Rental Forms

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