Your Rights in Employer-Provided Housing in Newfoundland and Labrador

Employer-provided housing—sometimes called staff housing or company housing—is common in Newfoundland and Labrador, especially in industries like fishing, construction, and resource extraction. If your employer is also your landlord, you still have important rights and responsibilities under the law. This article explains what to expect when living in employer-provided housing, which laws protect you, and what steps you can take if issues arise.

Key Rights as a Tenant in Employer-Provided Housing

In Newfoundland and Labrador, most tenants in employer-provided housing are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018.^[1] Your rights do not disappear just because your landlord is your employer. However, there are some unique considerations you should understand:

• Written rental agreement: Even if housing comes with your job, it's best to have a signed rental agreement outlining rent, rules, and the conditions for ending the tenancy. See What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for details on your rights once an agreement is in place.
• Deposits and rent payments: Your employer cannot require more than one month's rent as a security deposit. For more, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Proper notice for eviction: In most cases, your employer must follow standard rules for eviction, giving you written notice and time to move out, unless your rental falls under narrow exemptions in the law (for example, if your housing is truly temporary and tied directly to employment on-site).
• Safe, healthy living conditions: Your employer/landlord must maintain the habitability of your unit.
• Privacy: Landlords (including employers) must give proper notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.

Remember: Some employer housing (like camps or on-site bunkhouses) may occasionally be exempt. Always request your rights in writing or contact the provincial authority if you're unsure.

Notice and Ending Tenancy: What You Need to Know

Whether your employment ends or not, there are rules for ending tenancies:

• If your job ends: Your employer/landlord can only require you to leave the rental with proper notice (Residential Tenancies Office). You are usually entitled to at least 30 days' written notice unless you were hired for a fixed-term/project and the end date was made clear in writing.
• If you choose to leave: You generally need to provide written notice (at least one rental period in advance) unless your agreement says otherwise. Learn about moving out and smooth transitions with our Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Required Forms and How to Use Them

Whenever there is a dispute or change, official forms exist to protect your rights:

• Notice of Termination by Landlord (Form RTO-T): Used by your employer/landlord to officially end your tenancy. You must receive this in writing. See the official forms page.
• Notice of Termination by Tenant (Form RTO-T): Use this form if you intend to end your tenancy. For example, if you get a new job and want to move out, file this form with your employer/landlord and keep a copy for your records.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTO-Q): If you believe your rights as a tenant in employer-provided housing are not being respected (for example, if you receive insufficient notice to move out), use this form to apply to the Residential Tenancies Office of Service NL.

Forms can be found and downloaded on the official Residential Tenancies forms page.^[2]

Health, Safety, and Maintenance in Employer-Provided Units

Your employer-landlord must maintain safe, livable housing. This includes working heating, basic appliances, clean water, and reasonable security. Problems such as broken locks, unsafe electrical systems, or pest infestations should be reported promptly. Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If repairs aren’t made after you report them, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office. Documentation (photos, written notices) will strengthen your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens to my housing if I lose my job?
   Your employer must provide proper written notice before requiring you to move out. The notice period is typically 30 days unless your agreement states otherwise and is legally valid.
2. Can my employer deduct rent directly from my paycheque?
   Only if you have agreed to this in writing. Any deductions must be clearly stated and comply with both labour and tenancy laws.
3. Where do I go if I have a dispute about my housing?
   File a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office. They manage tenancy issues and can provide mediation and legal decisions.
4. Can my employer enter my rental unit without notice?
   No, except in emergencies. Normally, 24 hours' written notice is required.
5. Are rent increases allowed in employer-provided housing?
   Yes, but the same rules apply as with other rentals—including notice periods and legal limits. See guidance on rent rules for Newfoundland and Labrador in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Key Takeaways

• You are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018—even if your housing is supplied by your employer.
• Written agreements, proper notice, and access to official forms are essential tools for every tenant.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Office if your rights are in question or a dispute occurs.

For more information about your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador. To explore other housing options in your area, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office of Service NL – For official forms, guidance, and dispute resolution (Telephone: 1-877-829-2608; Email: landlordtenants@gov.nl.ca)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation – For social housing and rental assistance
• Community Legal Information – General legal info and tenant advocacy

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (NL) – full text
2. Official Residential Tenancies Forms – Service NL

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy