If a landlord misplaces a key to your rental unit in Newfoundland and Labrador, take calm, practical steps to protect your safety and privacy. Tenants should immediately contact the landlord, ask that locks be changed or rekeyed, and keep written records of every conversation. If the landlord delays or cannot confirm a secure plan, gather photos, messages and receipts and consider applying to the provincial residential tenancy authority for help. This page explains quick actions, when to use official forms, how the tribunal can help, and what tenants should document to support a complaint or application.
What to do right away
Start with clear communication and evidence collection to reduce risk and preserve your rights.
- Contact your landlord immediately by phone and follow up in writing to confirm what happened and what they will do next.
- Ask the landlord to change or rekey the locks as soon as possible to protect your security.
- Document everything: dates, times, who you spoke with, photos of the door or lock, and copies of messages or emails.
- Request written confirmation of any repairs or lock changes and get an estimate or receipt if locks are rekeyed or replaced.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and official forms
If the landlord refuses to secure the unit, delays without good reason, or you face ongoing safety concerns, you can apply to the provincial residential tenancy authority for an order or direction [1]. The relevant residential tenancy legislation explains tenant and landlord obligations and remedies [2]. Before applying, gather the documentation described above and any receipts for lock changes you paid for.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — used to ask for an order requiring lock changes, compensation, or other remedies; include copies of messages and receipts when you file.
- Complaint or information form available from the tribunal or provincial website — use this to start an informal inquiry or ask how to proceed if you are unsure.
FAQ
- Can my landlord enter or change locks after losing a key?
- Yes, landlords can arrange lock changes to secure the property, but they should give reasonable notice for lawful entry unless there is an emergency; if there is disagreement, you can seek guidance from the residential tenancy authority.
- Can I change the locks myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Do not unilaterally deduct lock costs from rent without written permission or a tribunal order; instead, keep receipts and either ask the landlord to reimburse you or apply to the tribunal for an order requiring reimbursement.
- How quickly should I act if my key is lost?
- Act immediately: notify the landlord, document the loss, and request lock changes; if you feel unsafe or the landlord does not act promptly, apply to the tribunal for urgent intervention.
How-To
- Call the landlord, explain the situation calmly, and follow up with an email or text summarizing what was said.
- Ask for the locks to be changed or rekeyed and request a timeline in writing for when the work will be done.
- Collect evidence: take photos, save texts and emails, and keep receipts for any lock services you pay for.
- If the landlord does not act, find the correct application form on the provincial website and prepare your documents for filing.
- Submit the application to the residential tenancy authority and pay any filing fee, following their directions for evidence and timelines.
- Attend any scheduled hearing or mediation, present your documentation clearly, and ask for a written order if the tribunal rules in your favour.
Key Takeaways
- Secure your unit quickly by asking the landlord to change or rekey locks.
- Document all communications and keep receipts to support any future application.
- If the landlord does not act, apply to the residential tenancy authority for an order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Division - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
- Official tenancy forms and applications
