Top 5 Things Tenants Must Know When Moving In or Out in Newfoundland and Labrador

Moving into or out of a rental home is a major transition for tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador. Understanding your rights and responsibilities ensures a smooth process and helps you avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re starting a new tenancy or preparing to leave, it’s crucial to know the essential rules set out by the province’s tenancy laws. Below, you’ll find the top 5 things tenants should know, including practical tips and legal resources, to help you protect your interests when moving in or out.
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador offers additional details for local renters.

1. Security and Damage Deposits: Know Your Rights

In Newfoundland and Labrador, landlords can ask tenants for a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit), but there are strict limits and rules:

• The deposit cannot exceed three-quarters of the monthly rent.
• Deposits must be held in trust and may only be used for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
• Upon moving out, your landlord must return the deposit with interest if there are no qualifying deductions.

For a deeper breakdown of rules and best practices, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Conducting an Initial Inspection

Doing a careful walk-through with your landlord when you move in is key. This inspection helps document the condition of the property and prevents disputes about damages later. Ideally, fill out a written “Move-In Inspection Report,” noting existing issues and taking date-stamped photos.

Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants provides tips and a checklist you can use for this process.

3. Notifying Your Landlord When Moving Out

Notice requirements in Newfoundland and Labrador depend on your tenancy type:

• For a month-to-month tenancy, you must give at least one month’s written notice (before the start of the next rental period).
• For a fixed-term lease, you must usually stay until the end unless you and your landlord agree otherwise. Early termination may require special conditions, like landlord consent or proof of specific circumstances.

To provide proper notice, use the “Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy” (Form: RTB-12) available from the provincial Residential Tenancies Office. Example: If you plan to leave at the end of July, your landlord must receive your notice before July 1.

Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy (RTB-12, PDF)

4. Completing a Final Inspection and Damage Review

Before handing over the keys, schedule a final inspection with your landlord. This walk-through helps verify that the property is left in reasonable condition and helps avoid disputes about deposits.

Keep a written record and photos of the property’s condition at move-out. If your landlord claims against your deposit, you have a right to see a breakdown and appeal their decision to the Residential Tenancies Office.

5. Settling Rent and Utilities Before You Go

Be sure to pay all outstanding rent and settle any utility accounts before you move out. If your rental agreement included utilities, contact service providers to transfer or close your accounts as needed.

For more insight on a smooth transition, check out Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

About the Law and Where to Get Help

Residential tenancies in Newfoundland and Labrador are regulated by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018¹. The Residential Tenancies Office oversees landlord-tenant disputes and provides official forms and applications.

Useful Forms for Tenants

• Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy (RTB-12): Use this form to officially inform your landlord you’re ending your tenancy. Download RTB-12 here.
• Application for Return of Security Deposit (RTB-5): If your landlord does not return your deposit as required, complete and submit this form to request a hearing. Download RTB-5 here.

You can file forms and get support through the Residential Tenancies Office.

Looking for your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Moving In and Moving Out in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. What’s the maximum security deposit a landlord can ask for?
   In Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s capped at three-quarters of one month’s rent.
2. Do I need to use a special form to give notice?
   Yes, it’s strongly recommended to use the provincial Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy (RTB-12) for clarity and proof.
3. How fast must my landlord return my security deposit after I move out?
   Landlords have 15 days from the end of tenancy to return it or provide reasons for withholding.
4. What happens if I leave before the lease ends?
   You may need landlord consent or must qualify under special circumstances like domestic violence; otherwise, you could be liable for rent until re-rental.
5. Can I contest deductions from my deposit?
   Yes, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if you disagree with deductions by using the RTB-5 form.

How To: Handle Your Move In and Move Out in Newfoundland and Labrador

1. How do I do an inspection and record property condition?
   Walk through with your landlord, use a checklist (or the one in your lease), photograph issues, and keep copies for your records.
2. How do I give my landlord notice?
   Fill out the RTB-12 form, deliver it in person or as specified in your lease, and keep a copy.
3. How do I apply for my deposit back?
   If not returned, fill out RTB-5 and submit to the Residential Tenancies Office with supporting documents.
4. What if there’s a disagreement about damages?
   Request an itemized list from your landlord. If unresolved, file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office.

Key Takeaways for Moving In and Out

• Understand deposit limits and always document inspections.
• Follow correct notice procedures and meet all deadlines.
• Use official forms for all move-in/move-out steps and seek help if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Office – guidance, forms, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (official)
• Legal support: Public Legal Information Association of NL – publiclegalinfo.com
• For more local facts, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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¹ See: Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL)

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