What Tenants Should Do After Receiving an Eviction Notice in Newfoundland and Labrador

If you’ve been served an eviction notice in Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s important not to panic. The Residential Tenancies Act gives you certain rights and lays out procedures your landlord must follow before ending your tenancy. This article walks you through what to expect, what forms to use, and how to protect yourself under the law.

Understanding Eviction Notices in Newfoundland and Labrador

Landlords can only evict tenants for specific reasons, including non-payment of rent, breach of rental agreement, or if they need the property for personal use. All evictions must follow the rules set by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) under the Residential Tenancies Act.^[1]

Types of Eviction Notices

• Non-payment of rent: The landlord can issue a 10-day notice if rent is late. If you pay the full amount within those 10 days, eviction is cancelled.
• Breach of agreement: A 10-day or 30-day notice may be issued if you break a term of your rental agreement (such as damaging the unit).
• Landlord’s own use or sale: The landlord can end your tenancy with at least 2 months’ written notice if they or their immediate family need the unit, or if it’s being sold.

Your landlord must use the proper notice forms provided by the province, and written copies must be delivered to you.

Your Immediate Steps After Receiving an Eviction Notice

Here’s what to do if you get an eviction notice:

• Review the notice carefully: Check the reason, the date you must leave, and the form used.
• Check if it follows the law: Notices must meet the requirements of the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Don’t ignore the notice: Failing to act could result in losing your right to dispute.

How to Respond or Dispute an Eviction Notice

If you believe the eviction is unfair or the process was not followed correctly, you have the right to dispute the notice:

• Contact the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): You can request a hearing before being forced to move.
• Submit the correct form: Tenants should use Application Form RT-B (Application by Tenant) to dispute a notice or apply for other orders. Download it from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Landlord and Tenant Forms page.
• Gather evidence: Save all written communications, your lease, receipts, and any relevant documents.

For a full overview of tenant and landlord legal duties — from paying rent to maintaining the rental — see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens at a Residential Tenancies Office Hearing?

The RTO will schedule a hearing where both you and your landlord can present your sides. The hearing is usually conducted by telephone or in writing. The RTO officer will decide if the eviction can go ahead or if your tenancy continues.^[2]

If you lose, you still have time to leave or appeal, depending on the RTO’s order. If you win, you stay, and the landlord cannot evict you on the current notice.

After the Eviction — Moving Out and Protecting Your Rights

If you must move out, ensure you do so on the agreed date. Clean the unit and take photos or videos to document its condition upon exit. This helps ensure your deposit is returned in full.

For tips on ending your rental and moving out smoothly, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Whether you stay or move, always keep copies of notices, correspondence, and all documents related to your tenancy and eviction. If you’re searching for a new home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a range of affordable listings.

Get a more in-depth look at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

FAQ: Dealing with Eviction Notices

1. Can my landlord evict me without a written notice?
   No, all evictions must follow the legal process with a proper written notice using provincial forms.
2. How much time do I have to move after an eviction notice?
   This depends on the reason: usually 10 days for non-payment, and up to 2 months for landlord’s own use or sale.
3. Can I dispute an eviction if I think it’s unfair?
   Yes. File Application Form RT-B to request a hearing at the Residential Tenancies Office before the notice period ends.
4. Will I lose my deposit if I’m evicted?
   You are still entitled to your deposit, minus any legally allowed deductions for damages. Document the unit’s condition when leaving.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants

• Always read and verify the details of any eviction notice.
• You have the right to challenge an eviction at the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Take action promptly — don’t ignore deadlines or notices.

By following legal procedures and knowing your options, you can best protect your tenancy rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Office: Information, forms, and how to dispute an eviction
• Official Landlord and Tenant Forms (Government of NL): Application RT-B and other essential forms
• Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador: Free tenant legal advice
• Emergency housing support: Call the NL Housing Corporation at 1-833-724-2444

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Government of NL

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