Top Lease Agreement Mistakes Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants Should Avoid

Renting a home in Newfoundland and Labrador offers flexibility, but entering into a new lease agreement can come with pitfalls. A clear understanding of your rights—and the terms of your lease—are essential for a smooth tenancy. In this article, we break down the common lease agreement mistakes made by tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador, and provide practical tips to avoid them.

Understanding Residential Lease Agreements in Newfoundland and Labrador

In this province, most rental relationships are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Your lease agreement is a legally binding contract that sets the ground rules for your tenancy, so read each section carefully.

1. Not Reading the Lease Thoroughly Before Signing

One of the most common issues is rushing through the lease or not asking questions about unclear clauses. Take your time and check for details about:

• What’s included in the rent (utilities, parking, appliances)
• Rules for pets, guests, or smoking
• Maintenance and repair responsibilities
• Notice requirements for ending the tenancy

Make notes and discuss anything you don’t understand before you sign. For a deeper dive into your rights and next steps after you’ve signed the lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

2. Overlooking Rental Deposit Rules

Security deposits in Newfoundland and Labrador are strictly regulated. You cannot be charged more than three-quarters of one month’s rent as your security deposit. Landlords must place these deposits in a trust account and return them with interest if there are no damages or rent owing when you leave.
Get the details and learn how to protect your deposit in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Ignoring Move-in Inspections

Many disagreements stem from not documenting the condition of the rental unit at move-in. In Newfoundland and Labrador, it's recommended (but not mandatory) to complete a walk-through and note any existing damage. Take photos and ask your landlord to sign off on an inspection checklist. This step can prevent disputes about damages when you move out.

4. Missing Important Lease Clauses

Tenants sometimes assume verbal agreements or text messages are enough, but only written terms included in your signed lease are enforceable. Key items to check include:

• Rent payment methods and due dates
• Any agreed repairs, upgrades, or painting
• Allowed use of the property (e.g., home office or business use)

If a promise is important to you, make sure it’s written into the lease.

5. Not Understanding Tenant and Landlord Rights

Many disputes arise because tenants are unclear about what they—and their landlords—are allowed to do. It’s crucial to know the rules around evictions, rent increases, entry to your unit, maintenance, and privacy. Your rights and responsibilities are clearly outlined by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of Newfoundland and Labrador. For a summary, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Official Forms Tenants May Need

Understanding—and using—the right forms helps protect your rights. Some of the most relevant include:

• Notice of Termination (Form RTB-12)
  Use this form if you want to end the tenancy by proper notice. For example, if your lease is ending or you are on a month-to-month agreement. View or download the official Form RTB-12.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-6)
  If you need the Tribunal to resolve a conflict—such as a disagreement over repairs, rent increases, or deposit return—this form starts the process. View or download the official Form RTB-6.

Each of these forms comes with instructions and should be delivered according to the Tribunal’s guidelines. If you need to submit these, keep copies for your records and confirm the Tribunal’s receipt.

Key Tips for Lease Agreements in Newfoundland and Labrador

• Ensure your lease is in writing, even if verbal agreements are legal for periods up to 12 months.
• Never pay more than the legally allowed security deposit.
• Take photos and document the condition of your unit at move-in and move-out.
• Read and confirm all important terms—don’t rely on verbal promises.

Before moving in, document everything—photos, checklists, and receipts can prevent problems later.

For more tools to help you as a tenant, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and make your next move stress-free.

FAQs: Common Lease Issues for Tenants

1. What happens if my landlord tries to change the lease after I've signed?
   Lease changes usually require consent from both parties. If your landlord tries to change terms such as rent or responsibilities without your agreement, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance.
2. Is a verbal lease agreement legal in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   Yes, verbal agreements are legal for tenancies up to 12 months but having a written lease is always safer for both parties.
3. How can I protect my deposit?
   Only pay the legal maximum, get a written receipt, and document the unit’s condition at move-in and move-out.
4. What should I do if my lease is missing important information?
   Request a written clarification or lease addendum before moving in. Don’t be afraid to ask for revisions.
5. Where can I file a complaint if there is a disagreement?
   Submit an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-6) to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Read your lease closely, and make sure every agreement is in writing.
• Know the legal limits for deposits, and always request receipts.
• Use official forms and know your rights—consult the Tribunal if in doubt.

Taking these steps can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a positive rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of Newfoundland and Labrador: Renting information and official forms
• Legal Information: Current Residential Tenancies Act
• Public Legal Information Association of NL: Tenant guidance and resources
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador: Province-wide summary and facts

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2018, c. R-14.1, available from Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal, official portal: https://www.gov.nl.ca/dgsnl/land
3. Official forms and guidelines: https://www.gov.nl.ca/dgsnl/land/tenant/forms/

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy