As a renter in Newfoundland and Labrador, it helps to know who is responsible when windows, doors or locks break or stop working. This article explains common landlord and tenant obligations in plain language, how to report and document problems, timelines to expect, and the official forms and tribunal you might use if repairs are delayed. Whether you rent an apartment, basement suite, or house, these practical steps focus on safety and habitability so you can get doors and locks secured, windows fixed to prevent drafts or moisture, and decisions reached without confusion. Keep records of requests and receipts so you can show evidence if you need to escalate the issue.
Who is responsible for repairs?
Under Newfoundland and Labrador rules, landlords generally must keep rental units in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation. Landlords are usually responsible for structural items, weatherproofing, safe entry and exit, and functioning locks. Tenants must take reasonable care, report problems promptly, and repair or pay for damage they or their guests caused. If a repair is needed because of normal wear and tear, the landlord usually pays; if damage is accidental or deliberate by the tenant, the tenant may be responsible.
Common examples
- Landlord responsibility: broken window frames, rotten door sills, or malfunctioning deadbolts due to age or weather.
- Tenant responsibility: keys lost by the tenant or damage to a lock caused by misuse.
- Shared or building systems: entrance doors and building-level locks are usually the landlord or property manager's responsibility.
How to request a repair
Follow these steps to make a clear, documented repair request so you and your landlord have the same expectations.
- Tell the landlord or property manager about the problem in writing (email or text) and describe the issue and location.
- Keep dated photos or videos and copies of messages as evidence.
- Set a reasonable deadline in your message for the repair, for example within seven days for non-emergency issues.
- If the landlord does not respond, follow up by phone and summarize any calls in writing.
- If repairs are urgent for safety or security (for example, a broken exterior door or non-functioning lock), state it is an emergency and ask for immediate action.
When repairs are urgent or emergency
Emergencies include situations that affect safety, security, or basic services, such as doors that wont lock, windows that allow easy access, or broken locks after a break-in. For emergencies, request immediate action and call emergency services if there is imminent danger. If the landlord fails to act, you may have options through the province's tribunal to request an order for repairs.[1]
Costs and entry for repairs
Landlords generally pay for necessary repairs and must give reasonable notice before entering the unit to do repairs unless there is an emergency. Tenants should not unreasonably refuse access for scheduled repairs. If a landlord brings in a contractor, keep a record of the date and work completed and ask for receipts if charges are passed on to you.
When to involve the tribunal or file a dispute
If a landlord refuses or unreasonably delays required repairs, you can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the provincial body that handles landlord-tenant disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador to request an order for repairs or a rent abatement. Include all documentation: dated requests, photos, receipts, and notes of conversations.[1]
Relevant local resources and forms
Use official provincial forms to apply for dispute resolution and to serve notices. Examples include the tenant application form to start a tribunal claim and the landlords notice templates for required repairs. See the tribunal or Service NL website for the current form names and instructions.[1] For legislation details, consult the provinces Residential Tenancies Act or equivalent statute to confirm timelines and obligations.[2]
Additional tenant help and guidance
For practical tips about routine repairs, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for general responsibilities and small-repair expectations. For urgent repair processes and examples, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings and building management practices when searching for your next home.
FAQ
- Who pays if my window was broken during a storm?
- If the damage is from normal wear or weather, the landlord is usually responsible; if it was caused by tenant negligence, the tenant may pay.
- Can my landlord change the lock without my permission?
- Landlords should not change locks without notice; they may replace locks for safety but must provide tenants with functioning keys unless the lease or local rules say otherwise.
- What if my landlord wont fix a broken deadbolt?
- Document your requests, give reasonable notice, and if there is no response, apply to the provincial tribunal to request an order for repairs.
How-To
- Document the problem with photos or video and note dates and times.
- Send a written repair request to your landlord describing the issue and asking for a specific timeframe to fix it.
- Wait a reasonable period; for non-urgent repairs, allow the response time suggested in your local tenancy rules.
- Follow up by phone and keep a written summary of that call.
- If unresolved, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal including your documentation and any form required by the tribunal.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Landlords are typically responsible for major repairs and habitability issues.
- Tenants should report issues promptly and keep evidence of requests and damage.
- Use official tribunal forms and document every step before filing a dispute.
