What Happens If You Ignore an Eviction Order in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Facing an eviction order in Newfoundland and Labrador can feel overwhelming. If you’re unsure about the next steps or decide to ignore the order, it’s important to understand what could happen—and what your options are. This guide explains the eviction enforcement process, tenant rights and risks, and practical advice for moving forward under provincial rules.

Who Makes Eviction Orders—and What Are They?

In Newfoundland and Labrador, eviction orders are generally issued by the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL, which acts as the official housing tribunal for disputes between tenants and landlords. The relevant law is the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1].

An eviction order allows a landlord to end a tenancy and requires the tenant to move out, usually by a specific date. Most often, eviction orders follow:

• Non-payment of rent
• Serious lease violations (damage, illegal activity, etc.)
• Repeated disturbances or breaches of the rental agreement

If you receive an eviction order, acting quickly is important. You may need legal advice or support right away.

What Happens If a Tenant Ignores an Eviction Order?

If you stay past the move-out date on the order—sometimes called “overholding”—here’s what usually occurs:

• Landlord Can Apply for Enforcement: The landlord can ask the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador to enforce the order. This step gives the landlord legal grounds to have a sheriff or peace officer remove you from the rental.
• Sheriff Enforces Removal: If a court issues a Writ of Possession, a sheriff may physically evict you and return the premises to the landlord.
• Extra Costs: If enforcement is necessary, you could be ordered to pay court fees, the landlord’s costs, and damages for staying illegally.

Ignoring an eviction order can cause long-term problems, including a negative rental history and difficulty finding rental homes across Canada on Houseme again.

If You Believe the Eviction Order Is Unfair: Options for Tenants

Tenants have ways to respond if they think the order was made in error or wasn’t served correctly. You may be able to:

• Apply for a Review: You may request a review or appeal of the eviction order if you act quickly, especially if new evidence has come up or there was a procedural mistake. Forms and guidelines are available from the Residential Tenancies Section.
• Apply for More Time: In rare circumstances, you can ask the tribunal or court for more time to move out. Explain your situation and supply any documentation right away.

If you don’t act before the enforcement stage, your options become limited and the risk to you increases.

Do not ignore legal notices—if you cannot move out in time, seek help from the provincial tribunal or tenant advocacy groups immediately.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Here are the most common forms related to eviction enforcement in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Notice to Terminate (Form A): Used by the landlord to officially inform you of termination. If you receive one, you may contact Residential Tenancies immediately if you dispute the claims. Find Form A and instructions.
• Application for Enforcement (Writ of Possession): If you ignore the eviction order and stay past the date, landlords may apply to court for a Writ of Possession. You’ll receive notice from the court, and a sheriff may be involved if you do not vacate.
• Request for Review/Appeal: If you believe the eviction order is incorrect, request a review quickly using the instructions provided by Service NL.

After an Eviction: What Should Tenants Know?

Following eviction, tenants should:

• Remove all personal belongings by the move-out deadline
• Return keys and settle outstanding rent or damage claims
• Request return of any deposits if no further rent or repair charges apply (see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know)

Proper communication with your landlord at this stage can help limit future issues.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Tenants and landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador have specific rights and obligations that must be followed throughout a tenancy—and during the eviction process. Eviction orders are legal documents; ignoring them can make things worse for both parties. Learn more about your rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Practical Steps If You Receive or Ignore an Eviction Order

Practical guidance can help you protect your interests and make informed decisions:

• Never ignore tribunal or court paperwork—open, read and respond without delay
• Seek early advice from tenant advocates or legal aid if you disagree with the eviction
• If you need to move, explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to help in your next steps

Summary of the Process

Once an eviction order is issued, tenants should either move out by the specified date or urgently apply for a review or appeal. Ignoring the order creates serious legal and financial risks, so get help quickly if you need it.

FAQ

1. What is an eviction order?
   An eviction order is a legal decision from the Residential Tenancies Section that requires a tenant to leave a rental property by a certain date.
2. What happens if I stay after the eviction date?
   The landlord can apply to the Supreme Court for a Writ of Possession, and a sheriff may remove you from the property.
3. Can I appeal an eviction order in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   Appeals or reviews may be possible, but you must act quickly with new evidence or proof of errors. Contact the Residential Tenancies Section right away.
4. What forms will I receive if my landlord applies to enforce an eviction?
   You will get a Writ of Possession notice from the court, giving a short time before a sheriff may carry out the eviction.
5. How might an eviction affect my ability to rent again?
   Evictions can create a negative rental history, making it harder to find a new place. Honesty with future landlords and clearing all outstanding debts can help.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Never ignore an eviction order; serious legal and financial risks follow
• Use official forms and appeal options if you believe the order is unfair
• Stay informed about your rights and obligations as a tenant

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Section, Service NL – Official tribunal for tenancy disputes
• Legal Aid Newfoundland and Labrador: https://www.legalaid.nl.ca/
• Public Legal Information Association of NL: https://publiclegalinfo.com/
• Find up-to-date tenant rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2018, c R-14.1
2. Residential Tenancies Section – Service NL
3. Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador

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