Bedbug and Pest Infestations: Tenant Remedies in Nova Scotia

If you are a tenant in Nova Scotia facing bedbug or pest infestations, understanding your rights and remedies is essential. Pest issues can affect your health, comfort, and right to a safe home. Fortunately, Nova Scotia’s rental laws provide protections and a clear process for addressing these problems. This guide explains what to do, which forms to use, and how to ensure your rental remains pest-free.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for Pest-Free Living

In Nova Scotia, both tenants and landlords have responsibilities when it comes to pest infestations. Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)^[1], landlords are generally responsible for making sure rental properties are habitable and meet health, safety, and housing standards.

• Landlords must address bedbug, cockroach, rodent, or other infestations promptly once notified.
• Tenants must report infestations quickly and cooperate during treatment (e.g., preparing the unit for pest control appointments).

For a fuller overview, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What to Do If You Discover Bedbugs or Pests

Acting quickly gives you the best chance of resolving the issue smoothly. Here’s what to do:

• Document the issue: Take clear photos and keep notes of the affected areas and when you noticed the pests.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Contact your landlord (by letter or email) as soon as you suspect an infestation. Clearly describe the issue and request prompt action.
• Keep records: Save all communications and responses from your landlord and repair technicians. This record will help if you need to escalate your complaint.

Official Forms: Filing a Complaint or Repair Request

If your landlord does not act promptly, you may need to take your complaint to the official authority:

• Form K – Application to Director: This is the main form tenants use to apply to the Residential Tenancy Program Director for help, including for repairs due to pest infestations.
• When to use: If the landlord fails to address the infestation or the repair was not done properly within a reasonable time after notification.
• How to use: Download Form K: Application to Director from the provincial website. Clearly state the pest problem, steps you have taken, and what remedy you are requesting (such as ordering the landlord to treat the unit).
• Example: After notifying your landlord by email and waiting 7 days without action, complete Form K and submit it with your supporting documents to the Service Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies office.

Nova Scotia’s Tribunal: Who Handles These Complaints?

All residential tenancy complaints in Nova Scotia, including those about bedbugs and pest infestations, are handled by the Residential Tenancies Program within Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services.^[2]

This body can order your landlord to fix pest problems, reimburse costs you’ve incurred when the landlord fails to act, or allow you to legally terminate your lease if the unit is deemed uninhabitable.

Common Questions About Bedbugs and Pest Infestations

Resolving pest issues is one of the Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them. Tenants often ask:

• Who pays for pest control in my rental?
• How long does my landlord have to act?
• What if pest problems return?

Nova Scotia law usually requires landlords to bear the cost, unless the tenant’s actions directly caused the infestation.

Effective Steps to Get the Problem Fixed

Follow these steps to protect your health and tenancy rights:

• Notify your landlord in writing and request prompt action.
• Allow reasonable access to pest control services and follow preparation instructions.
• If unresolved, gather evidence and apply to the Residential Tenancies Program using Form K.
• Consider temporary alternative accommodation if directed for safety, but keep receipts if you want to claim those expenses.

For tailored pest advice see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

How Long Should You Wait?

Landlords are expected to respond promptly—often within a few days—depending on pest severity. Bedbugs and rodents are urgent health concerns. If you face long wait times, contact the Residential Tenancies Program for guidance.

What if the Infestation Makes My Rental Unsafe?

In very severe cases where the home cannot be safely lived in, you may seek legal permission to end your tenancy early or ask for a rent abatement. Always keep written records and official documentation for your application.

For a safe and healthy rental home, act quickly, use the proper channels, and rely on official forms and evidence.

FAQ: Bedbugs and Pest Control in Nova Scotia Rentals

1. Who is responsible for paying for bedbug or pest removal in Nova Scotia?
   Landlords are usually responsible unless the tenant caused the infestation through their actions or negligence.
2. What should I do if my landlord does not fix a pest problem?
   Document your communications, allow reasonable time, then use Form K: Application to Director to request action from the Residential Tenancies Program.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't fix a pest infestation?
   No, you cannot withhold rent in Nova Scotia. Instead, follow the legal complaint process to resolve the matter.
4. Will I have to move out permanently if my unit has a severe infestation?
   In extreme cases, you may ask the Residential Tenancies Program to end your lease. Otherwise, most infestations can be treated without moving.
5. How fast must my landlord act on a pest complaint?
   Landlords are expected to act promptly, especially for urgent health issues like bedbugs or rodents. If not, report the issue officially.

Summary: What Tenants Should Remember

• Nova Scotia tenants have the right to safe, pest-free rentals and clear ways to address infestations through the Residential Tenancies Program.
• Notify your landlord in writing and cooperate with professional pest control steps.
• Use official forms and keep good records to protect your rights.

For more information on local laws and processes, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia. If you are looking for new accommodations, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and ensure your next home meets your safety standards.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Program, Service Nova Scotia: For official forms, complaints, or advice.
• Nova Scotia Renters’ Info: Government guidance for renters on rights, forms, and disputes.
• Legal Aid Nova Scotia: Free or low-cost legal assistance for eligible tenants (https://www.nslegalaid.ca).
• Your local municipality: Inspection and public health teams can help with severe infestations or unsafe living conditions.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
2. Residential Tenancies Program, Service Nova Scotia

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