Can a New Landlord Raise Rent Immediately in Nova Scotia?

As a tenant in Nova Scotia, you may wonder what happens to your rent if your rental unit is sold and a new landlord takes over. Understanding your rights during a landlord changeover is crucial—especially when it comes to rent increases. This article explains the rules, process, and key forms related to rent increases in Nova Scotia so you can feel secure in your housing situation.

What Happens When Your Rental Property Changes Owners?

When a property is sold or transferred to a new landlord, your lease—whether written or verbal—carries over to the new owner. The Residential Tenancies Program in Nova Scotia ensures that all the terms of your existing rental agreement remain in effect until the end of the lease term (or for month-to-month agreements, until you are given proper notice).

It's important to know that, under the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act, your rental agreement does not end simply because the landlord changes.

Nova Scotia Rent Increase Rules for New Landlords

New landlords must follow the same rent increase rules as the previous owner. They cannot raise your rent right away just because they have acquired the property. Rent increases are carefully regulated to protect tenants and prevent sudden, unaffordable changes to housing costs.

Key Rules to Remember

• Notice Requirement: Landlords must give written notice at least 4 months before any rent increase can take effect.
• Timing: For year-to-year or month-to-month leases, rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
• Form: The required notice must include the new rental amount and the date it takes effect. See the official form details below.
• Lease Transfers: The new landlord is bound by the same lease terms as the previous owner until the lease ends or is renewed.

For a broader understanding of how these obligations work, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Required Rent Increase Notice Form

In Nova Scotia, landlords—whether new or existing—must use the official “Form DR5: Notice of Rent Increase” when notifying tenants of a rent increase. This ensures all required information is clearly provided and the tenant receives adequate warning.

• Form Name: Notice of Rent Increase (Form DR5)
• Official Source: Download Form DR5 from the Nova Scotia government
• When/How Used: Your landlord must deliver this form to you in writing at least 4 months before the new rent will start. For example, if your landlord wants the increase to start on July 1, you must receive the notice by March 1.

If the correct form or notice timeframe is not followed, the rent increase is not legal and you do not have to pay the higher amount. If you receive an invalid notice, you can contact the Residential Tenancy Program for assistance.

Your Rights as a Tenant: No Immediate Rent Raises

According to Nova Scotia law, a new landlord cannot raise your rent right away upon purchase of your rental unit. Not only must they wait until the appropriate anniversary date of your lease, but they also must provide the required written notice using the correct form.

For a deep dive into annual rent increase rules, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

For broader information about tenant and landlord rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

What If You’re on a Fixed-Term Lease?

If you have a fixed-term lease, the rent cannot be increased until your lease term is over—unless your lease states otherwise. New landlords must respect this term, and any rent increase outside the legal limits is not enforceable.

How to Respond to an Improper Notice

• Contact your landlord (in writing) if you receive a notice that does not follow the legal requirements.
• If the issue is not resolved, file an Application to Director with the Residential Tenancy Program.

Tenants can feel confident knowing their rent can’t suddenly jump when a new landlord takes over. These regulations exist to provide predictability and stability for renters across Nova Scotia.

Need to find a new place? Browse apartments for rent in Canada for your next home.

FAQ: Tenants' Common Questions About New Landlords and Rent Increases

1. Can a new landlord raise my rent as soon as they buy the building?
   No. Rent cannot be increased immediately after a new landlord purchases a property. Landlords must follow provincial rules for notice and timing of rent increases.
2. What notice must a new landlord give before raising rent?
   They must provide written notice, using Form DR5, at least 4 months before the rent increase takes effect.
3. If my lease is fixed-term, can the new landlord raise the rent before it ends?
   No. The rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless your lease specifically allows for this.
4. What should I do if I receive a short-notice rent increase?
   Contact your landlord in writing to explain the law. If not resolved, contact the Residential Tenancy Program for help.
5. Does my rental agreement change when a new landlord takes over?
   No, your existing agreement continues under the new owner. Only the landlord's name changes.

Key Takeaways for Nova Scotia Tenants

• New landlords cannot raise rent immediately—proper notice and timing are required.
• Always check the notice form and timeline you receive for rent increases.
• Your lease carries over, and you maintain your tenant rights when ownership changes.

In summary: Stay informed and reach out for help if you have questions or concerns about rent increases from new landlords in Nova Scotia.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program – The official board handling tenant and landlord disputes in Nova Scotia.
• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act – The full provincial legislation governing rental housing.
• Forms and applications for tenants and landlords
• For repairs, deposits, agreements, and more, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
• Access further details at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

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1. Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act – Official Legislation PDF
2. Residential Tenancy Program, Government of Nova Scotia – Program Website
3. Form DR5: Notice of Rent Increase – Official Form (PDF)

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