Top 50 Eviction Questions for Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador

Evictions Newfoundland and Labrador published June 26, 2025 Flag of Newfoundland and Labrador
Who handles eviction disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The Residential Tenancies Office manages eviction disputes.
What law covers tenant evictions in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 governs evictions.
What are legal reasons my landlord can evict me?
Reasons include unpaid rent, property damage, illegal activity, repeated late rent, or landlord’s own use.
What is a Notice of Termination?
It’s a written notice from your landlord to end your tenancy for a legal reason, with required advance notice.
How much notice must a landlord give me to evict?
For unpaid rent: minimum 10 days. For other reasons, usually between 10 and 60 days. Check your notice type.
Can my landlord evict me without written notice?
No. Written notice is required for almost all evictions.
What if I disagree with the eviction notice?
Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office within 10 days to dispute it using the Tenant’s Application Form.
What is the Tenant’s Application Form?
This form lets you dispute an eviction notice with the Residential Tenancies Office. Example: If you receive a Notice of Termination, use this form to request a hearing. View Form.
How do I submit a Tenant’s Application Form?
Submit it in-person, by mail, fax, or email to your nearest Residential Tenancies Office.
Can I be evicted for being late with rent?
Yes. If you’re late, landlords can issue a 10-day eviction notice.
Can my landlord evict me for damages?
Yes. If you or your guests cause damage, the landlord can give notice to terminate.
What if I fix the issue (e.g., pay rent) after receiving notice?
If fixed within the notice period, the landlord usually cannot proceed with the eviction.
Can I be evicted for noise or disturbing others?
Yes. Persistent disturbance can lead to eviction notice.
Can my landlord evict me for personal use of the property?
Yes. Landlords may evict if they or an immediate family member need the unit, but must give written notice (usually 60 days).
If the property sells, can I be evicted?
Yes, if the new owner or purchaser’s family needs to move in, with at least 60 days' notice in writing.
Can I be evicted for having pets?
Only if your lease prohibits pets and you keep them anyway, or they cause damage/disturbance.
Does my landlord have to use an official notice form?
Notices must be in writing and state the reason, date, and signature, but there’s no government-mandated form for most reasons.
Do I have to move out immediately after the notice period?
If you don’t move, your landlord can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an Order of Possession.
What is an Order of Possession?
It is a legal order from the Residential Tenancies Office requiring you to vacate the property after a hearing.
How do I appeal an Order of Possession?
You can apply to the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador for an appeal.
Can my landlord change the locks to evict me?
No. Landlords cannot change locks or physically remove you without an order.
What if my landlord evicts me illegally?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office and file a complaint or application for remedy.
Can I leave before the notice period ends?
Yes, but notify your landlord in writing and follow your lease terms.
Do I get my security deposit back if evicted?
You may, minus unpaid rent or damages. Landlords must follow rules for deposit returns.
Can I negotiate to avoid eviction?
Yes. You can talk to your landlord to find a solution before notice expires.
Will an eviction affect my rental history?
Yes. Evictions may appear on your rental history and affect future housing applications.
How soon do I have to leave after an eviction hearing?
The Order of Possession will set the move-out date, usually a few days to a week after the order.
What if I need more time to move out?
You can ask the Residential Tenancies Office during your hearing for more time, but extensions are limited.
Can my landlord evict me for complaints by neighbours?
If complaints break lease terms or the law (e.g., noise, nuisance), your landlord can issue a notice.
Is there a fee for submitting the Tenant’s Application Form?
Yes. Check the latest fees on the Residential Tenancies Office website.
Can roommates be evicted too?
Yes. If the rental agreement is joint, all tenants are included in the notice.
Can a landlord end my lease during winter?
Yes—there’s no law against winter evictions, but required notice and legal reasons still apply.
What if I miss the hearing date for my eviction?
The decision may be made without you. Contact the office as soon as possible for next steps.
Can I have legal help at my eviction hearing?
Yes. You may bring a lawyer, legal representative, or support person to your hearing.
If I move out, do I still owe rent?
You owe rent until the end of the notice period or until a new tenant moves in.
If my landlord enters illegally, can I be evicted for refusing entry?
No. You have a right to privacy. Report illegal entry to the Residential Tenancies Office.
What if my address changes during the process?
Notify the Residential Tenancies Office and your landlord of your new address immediately.
Can a landlord evict for renovations or demolition?
Yes, with at least 60 days’ written notice for major renovations or demolition.
What official notice is used for landlord’s own use?
A written Notice of Termination stating the reason, signed, 60 days’ notice is required.
Is eviction permanent on my record?
No. It does not appear on any permanent public registry but may affect future rental references.
Can my landlord evict me for subletting?
Only if subletting is not allowed under your lease or you did not get landlord consent.
What notice does my landlord use for unpaid rent?
10 days’ written Notice of Termination for unpaid rent is required.
Can I get financial help to prevent eviction?
Some organizations and programs may help. Contact local housing support or social services.
Can my landlord evict for criminal activity?
Yes. Engaging in illegal acts in the unit is grounds for eviction.
Can I request my eviction hearing be held virtually or by phone?
Yes. Ask the Residential Tenancies Office about remote hearing options.
What happens if there is an error in my eviction notice?
An invalid notice may be dismissed by the Residential Tenancies Office if disputed.
Where can I get more information or help?
Visit the Residential Tenancies Office website for guides and contacts.
What documents should I bring to my hearing?
Bring your lease, payment records, correspondence, and any evidence related to your case.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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