As a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have the right to a safe rental home. When violence or threats occur between tenants, landlords have legal and practical duties to address safety, investigate promptly, and work with law enforcement and the provincial residential tenancy body. This article explains what tenants can expect landlords to do, what evidence to collect, how to report incidents, and when to involve the Residential Tenancies Division or court. It also outlines relevant forms and timelines, tenant rights to quiet enjoyment and habitability, and practical steps to protect yourself while the matter is resolved. Knowing these steps helps renters assert their rights and stay safer in their rental home.
Landlord responsibilities in Newfoundland and Labrador
Landlords must take reasonable steps to keep the rental property safe for all lawful occupants. That typically means promptly investigating reports of violence or threats, cooperating with police when there is an immediate risk, and taking steps to stop further incidents when possible. Landlords should also consider interim safety measures such as changing locks, separating involved tenants, or arranging temporary accommodation if the tenant is at risk. For a general overview of owner and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Common landlord actions after a reported incident
- Document the incident and collect any statements, photos, or video where safe to do so.
- Contact police if there is an immediate threat to safety; always prioritise personal safety first.
- Provide reasonable interim measures such as lock changes, altered access, or alternative unit placement when feasible.
- Follow up with formal notices or applications to the tenancy tribunal if the behaviour continues or an order is needed.
What tenants should do
If you experience or witness violence involving other tenants, take steps to protect yourself and preserve evidence. Do not assume a landlord will automatically act without notice; you should report the incident in writing and ask for specific measures.
- Document the incident: write a timeline, keep photos, save messages, and note witnesses.
- Call 911 or local police when safety is at immediate risk and obtain an incident or occurrence number.
- Notify your landlord in writing (email or recorded letter) describing what happened and requesting specific safety steps.
- Consider temporary relocation if you do not feel safe; keep records of costs and requests to the landlord for reimbursement if applicable.
For hazards or habitability concerns that affect safety (for example, break-ins, damaged doors, or missing locks), review guidance on health and safety for tenants: Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Forms, tribunal applications and timelines
If a landlord does not take reasonable steps, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Division for orders such as repair, compensation, or termination. The provincial body that handles residential tenancy disputes is the Residential Tenancies Division[1]. Common actions include filing an application for dispute resolution or asking for a hearing where a judge or adjudicator can issue an order.
Common official forms and uses (check the tribunal website for current forms and names):
- Application for dispute resolution (used to ask the tribunal for orders such as termination, rent offset, or repairs).[2]
- Evidence bundle or witness statement form (used to submit photos, messages, and witness summaries to support your case).
FAQ
- What should I do immediately after a violent incident in my building?
- Call police if danger is present, seek medical help if needed, document the event, and notify your landlord in writing with a request for safety measures.
- Can a landlord evict the other tenant for violent behaviour?
- Landlords may pursue eviction or termination through the Residential Tenancies Division if behaviour breaches the lease or poses safety risks, but eviction typically requires a formal application and order.
- Will the tribunal order the landlord to move me to a different unit?
- The tribunal can order remedies it considers reasonable, which may include repairs, compensation, or termination; relocation requests are considered case-by-case.
How-To
- Ensure immediate safety: call police if anyone is in danger and obtain an incident number.
- Document everything: write a timeline, take photos, and collect witness names and contact details.
- Notify your landlord in writing and request specific safety steps or interim measures.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Division if the landlord does not act or you need an order to end the tenancy.
- Seek community supports such as victim services, shelters, or legal advice if required.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants have a right to safety and quiet enjoyment in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Document incidents carefully and keep copies of all communications and evidence.
- If the landlord does not act, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Division for remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Division, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador – tenant information and services
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
