Can a Landlord Lock a Tenant Out in Nova Scotia? Legal Insights

Facing a lockout or threats of being locked out by your landlord in Nova Scotia can be distressing. Understanding your rights under Nova Scotia law helps you stay protected and respond appropriately. This article offers clear, up-to-date guidance to empower tenants across the province.

Understanding Tenant Lockouts in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, landlords cannot legally lock out a tenant or change the locks to force someone out of their rental unit unless a formal process is followed. The key legislation governing residential tenancies is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).^[1]

What Counts as a Lockout?

A lockout occurs when a landlord deliberately prevents a tenant from accessing the rental premises—for example, by changing locks, removing doors, or restricting entrance without proper legal grounds.

• Changing locks while the tenant still lives in the unit
• Blocking doors or entryways
• Withholding keys without a legal eviction order

When Can a Landlord Change the Locks?

A landlord may only change or place locks on a rental unit after a tenant has lawfully vacated the premises, or following an official eviction order issued by the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program (RTP). Landlords who do not follow this process are breaking the law.

Lawful Eviction Process

Eviction in Nova Scotia must follow strict steps under the RTA and involves official forms. Even if rent is overdue or there is another dispute, a landlord must:

• Serve the tenant the correct Notice to Quit
• Wait for the applicable notice period to pass
• If the tenant does not leave, apply for an Order of the Director
• Only after an eviction order from the RTP can a sheriff, not the landlord, enforce removal

What if I Am Illegally Locked Out?

If your landlord locks you out without going through the formal process, you have the right to:

• Request immediate access from your landlord
• Contact the Residential Tenancy Program for urgent assistance
• Apply for an “Application to Director” (Form C) to regain access
• Consult tenant support organizations for advice

Common Misconceptions About Lockouts

• Landlords cannot lock you out just because of unpaid rent or disagreements.
• Self-help evictions (lockouts without a tribunal’s order) are illegal in Nova Scotia.
• Only a sheriff, acting on a proper eviction order, can physically remove a tenant.

For more on landlord and tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Forms Tenants Should Know

• Notice to Quit – Form D/E: Used by a landlord or tenant to end the tenancy according to the rules. If you receive one, review it thoroughly and respond before the notice period expires. Download from official site.
• Application to Director – Form C: Use this if you are locked out or experiencing an urgent tenancy issue. File this with the RTP to have your situation quickly heard. Access Form C here.

Need to know more about what happens after you've signed your lease? Review What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for helpful info on next steps and potential issues.

Overview of the Tribunal/Board

Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancy Program (RTP) handles rental disputes, including lockouts, evictions, and repair disagreements. Tenants may file applications or complaints with the RTP online, by mail, or in person.

To better understand your province's tenant laws, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Looking for a New Rental?

If you’ve been locked out or are thinking of moving, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for your next home with helpful tools and features.

FAQ: Nova Scotia Tenant Lockouts

1. Can my landlord change the locks without telling me?
   No. Changing locks without notice and outside of the eviction process is illegal unless there is a serious emergency, and even then, your access must be restored promptly.
2. If I am locked out, can I call the police?
   Police may assist if your landlord is violating the law, but tenancy enforcement is handled mainly through the Residential Tenancy Program. Make a report and file Form C to regain access.
3. What should I do first if I arrive home and can't get inside?
   Contact your landlord to ask for access, collect documentation (photos, written communications), and file an Application to Director with the Residential Tenancy Program right away.
4. Can a landlord lock me out if the lease has ended?
   No. If you still lawfully reside in the unit, you cannot be locked out without an eviction order, even after your lease ends.
5. Will I get my belongings back if I am locked out?
   You are entitled to your possessions. Notify the RTP if you have trouble retrieving your property after an illegal lockout.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Lockouts outside the legal eviction process are illegal in Nova Scotia.
• Only a sheriff, acting on an Order of the Director, can forcibly remove you.
• If locked out, act quickly by contacting the Residential Tenancy Program.

Learning about your rights makes it easier to handle lease disputes. Always read official forms carefully and seek provincial resources for support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Program (RTP): Handles tenant-landlord disputes, applications, and lockouts – call 1-800-670-4357 or visit the official website
• Dalhousie Legal Aid Service: Tenant advocacy and support, visit Dalhousie Legal Aid
• Access legal forms and information at the Nova Scotia government housing portal.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – full text
2. Official Residential Tenancy Program (Nova Scotia)
3. Application to Director (Form C) – Nova Scotia

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