What Tenants Should Do If Rent Increases After a Complaint (NL)

Dealing with a rent increase after making a complaint to your landlord can feel overwhelming, especially in Newfoundland and Labrador. Understanding your rights and the steps to take helps ensure that you’re protected from unlawful retaliation. This guide covers the rules, the forms you’ll need, and how the Residential Tenancies Office can assist you in safeguarding your tenancy.

Understanding Rent Increases and Retaliation

In Newfoundland and Labrador, landlords have the right to increase rent, but strict rules and timelines apply. According to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018^[1], rent increases must:

• Be provided in writing at least 8 weeks before the new rate takes effect (for month-to-month leases)
• Not occur more than once in a 12-month period
• Comply with terms set in your rental agreement

Importantly, landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador are not permitted to raise your rent as retaliation for making a legitimate complaint about repairs, maintenance, or another issue. This is known as a "retaliatory rent increase." If you suspect the rent is being raised because you exercised your rights, you may be able to challenge this action.

Was Your Rent Raised After a Complaint?

If your landlord issued a rent increase shortly after you submitted a complaint about repairs or another issue, consider the timing and context. Some signs the increase may be retaliatory include:

• The rent increase follows closely after your complaint
• There is no prior history or pattern of regular rent increases
• The increase amount or timing doesn't align with provincial rules

You have the right to fair treatment regardless of complaints or repair requests. For more on this process, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Retaliation

When faced with a potential retaliatory rent increase, take the following steps to protect your position:

• Document everything: Keep records of your original complaint, landlord responses, the rent increase notice (with date), and any communications.
• Review the rent increase notice: Ensure it follows the legal requirements for timing and delivery under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.
• Compare dates: Note if the rent hike was announced soon after your complaint or report.
• Seek advice: Reach out to the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance.

If you find the increase may not be valid, you can dispute it.

How to Dispute an Unfair Rent Increase

Tenants have the right to dispute an improper or retaliatory rent increase in Newfoundland and Labrador. The process typically involves:

• Filing an application to the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)
• Attending a hearing, where both you and your landlord can present evidence
• Receiving a decision from the RTO

The main form you’ll need is the Tenant’s Application – Form 6. Here’s what you should know:

• Name: Tenant’s Application (Form 6)
• When to use: If you believe your landlord has unlawfully raised your rent after you made a complaint, use this form to request a hearing and resolution.
• How to use: Complete the form with details of your situation, attach copies of your complaint and rent increase notice, and submit it to the RTO. Download Form 6 from the official source.

Action Steps for Tenants

• Collect all related documentation – the complaint, written rent increase notice, and correspondence.
• Download and complete the Tenant’s Application (Form 6).
• Submit your form and supporting documents to the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Attend the scheduled hearing, if one is called. Be ready to explain the situation and provide evidence of potential retaliation.

This process helps ensure that tenant rights are protected and rent increases follow legal requirements. For a deeper understanding of your obligations and your landlord’s, consider reading Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Provincial Tribunal and Legislation

The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) is the official tribunal handling rental disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador. They resolve disagreements between tenants and landlords, including those about rent increases or possible retaliation. All decisions are based on the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 and related regulations.

Other Considerations for Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants

Some rental issues can feel complex, but knowing your rights is your best protection. For an overview of key provincial laws and how they impact you, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

You may also want to Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a more secure or suitable tenancy if your situation remains unresolved.

FAQ: Rent Increases After Complaints in NL

1. Can my landlord increase the rent because I complained about repairs?
   No, retaliatory rent increases are not allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018. If you suspect this, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to dispute the increase.
2. What is the correct notice period for a rent increase?
   Landlords must give at least 8 weeks’ written notice for month-to-month rentals. Other terms may require different notice, so check your rental agreement and the Act.
3. How do I dispute a rent increase I think is unfair?
   Complete and submit the Tenant's Application (Form 6) to the Residential Tenancies Office, along with your evidence.
4. What happens after I file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office?
   The RTO will set a hearing where both you and the landlord can present your case before a decision is made.
5. Where can I get help if I’m unsure about my rights?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice and information, or see provincial tenant advocacy services.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Rent increases after complaints may be unlawful retaliation—know your rights.
• File a Form 6 with the Residential Tenancies Office to challenge unfair increases.
• Document all communications and act quickly to protect your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Newfoundland and Labrador: Official dispute resolution, forms, and guides.
• Tenant’s Application (Form 6): Use this to dispute a rent increase you believe is retaliatory.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador: Comprehensive overview of NL tenant and landlord laws.
• Tenant advocacy groups and legal aid: Consult for support if you need help completing forms or understanding your rights.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018, SNL 2018, c R-14.1
2. Residential Tenancies Office – Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Tenant’s Application (Form 6) – Government of NL

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