What to Do If Your Landlord Cuts Services After a Dispute (NL)

When conflicts happen between tenants and landlords, it can sometimes result in landlords shutting off essential services like heat, water, or electricity. In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenants are legally protected if a landlord tries to pressure them by cutting off these services after a dispute.

What Are Essential Services in Rental Homes?

Essential services include heat, water, hot water, electricity, fuel, and other utility services necessary for the rental property to be safely and healthily occupied. The provision of these services is a key responsibility of every landlord unless there is a clear agreement stating otherwise.

Is It Legal for a Landlord to Cut Off Services?

No. Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador), it is illegal for a landlord to intentionally disrupt or withhold vital services to force a tenant to pay rent, vacate, or resolve any kind of dispute.^[1]

Common Types of Disputes That Lead to Service Cuts

• Disagreements about late rent payments
• Complaints about needed repairs
• Arguments over lease terms or rent increases

Regardless of the reason for the disagreement, landlords cannot use service cut-offs as a way to resolve issues. Both parties must follow legal procedures.

Your Rights If Services Are Shut Off

As a tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have the right to:

• Safe and healthy living conditions at all times
• Uninterrupted access to essential services unless there is an emergency, planned repair, or you control the service in your name and haven’t paid
• Apply urgently for help if your landlord disrupts your services

Service disruptions can quickly cause health and safety issues in your home. Contact your landlord in writing as soon as possible to inform them about the problem and keep a copy for your records.

Taking Action: Steps for Tenants If Services Are Cut

If your landlord shuts off heat, power, water, or other key services, you should act quickly. Here’s what you can do:

• Contact your landlord in writing and request immediate restoration of services
• Document the disruption (photos, dates, copies of written communications)
• Reach out to the Residential Tenancies Office and file an official complaint
• In an emergency or unsafe situation, consider contacting public health or local authorities

Official Forms for Tenants

• Application to the Director (Form 6):
  - When to use: If your landlord interrupts essential services or locks you out, you can apply for an urgent hearing.
  - How to use: Download and fill out Form 6 – Application to the Director, include all supporting evidence, and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office.
  - Example: Your landlord shuts off the water after a rent dispute. You submit Form 6 with your written complaint and evidence.

The Tribunal Handling Tenancy Disputes

All residential tenancy disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador are managed by the Residential Tenancies Office. They offer guidance, formal dispute resolution, and can make orders for landlords to restore essential services or compensate tenants.

What the Law Says

The Residential Tenancies Act is the primary legislation protecting tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador. Section 21 prohibits landlords from interfering with vital services and outlines remedies available to tenants.^[1]

Additional Rights and Issues

Tenants also have broader protection under provincial law for issues like repairs, harassment, and evictions. To learn more about legal obligations for both landlords and tenants, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a detailed overview of tenant protections specific to your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need to find a new place or compare housing options if things escalate? Browse apartments for rent in Canada on Houseme, Canada's best rental listings platform.

FAQ: Common Tenant Questions on Service Shut-Offs

1. Can my landlord legally shut off my power or water if I am behind on rent?
   No. Even if you owe rent, your landlord cannot legally cut vital services. They must follow the legal eviction process.
2. What if the utility is in my name and I miss a payment?
   Utility providers may disconnect services for non-payment if the account is in your name. This is different from a landlord interfering with utilities.
3. How quickly can I get my services restored through the Residential Tenancies Office?
   If you file an urgent application (Form 6), the Office will prioritize your case, often holding a hearing within days.
4. Can I get compensation if my landlord illegally cuts my services?
   Yes—if the tribunal finds your landlord at fault, you may receive an order for restoration of services and possible compensation.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords cannot shut off heat, water, electricity, or similar services in a dispute.
• Use Form 6 to file an urgent complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Document everything and know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office – Newfoundland and Labrador: Guidance, complaint forms, and dispute resolution.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation: Housing programs and tenant support.
• Legal Aid NL: Free or low-cost legal information for eligible tenants. Call 709-753-7860 or visit Legal Aid Newfoundland and Labrador.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2018, Chapter R-14.2. Read the full text of the Act.

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