Finding a home to rent in Nova Scotia can be challenging, especially if you’re worried about your credit history. Many tenants wonder if landlords can refuse to rent to them because of bad credit. This article explains your rights as a tenant in Nova Scotia, the laws landlords must follow when screening applications, and what steps you can take if your credit is less than perfect.
Can Landlords Legally Deny Housing Because of Bad Credit?
In Nova Scotia, landlords are generally allowed to ask for credit information as part of the rental application process. They may use credit checks to help them determine an applicant’s ability to pay rent. However, this process must comply with Nova Scotia’s tenancy legislation and human rights laws.
- Credit checks are legal if the landlord has your written consent.
- Landlords can choose not to accept an applicant based on credit information, but they cannot discriminate for reasons protected by law (such as race, family status, disability, etc.).
- You have the right to know what information a landlord used to make their decision.
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) sets the rules for rental applications and how landlords can assess tenants.[1]
Human Rights Protections for Tenants in Nova Scotia
Landlords in Nova Scotia must also follow the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act. This law prohibits discrimination in housing based on categories like:
- Race, colour, national or ethnic origin
- Religion
- Sex, gender identity, sexual orientation
- Disability
- Age, family status, marital status
- Source of income
While credit checks are allowed, a landlord must not use your bad credit as a proxy to discriminate against you for a protected ground. For example, refusing to rent only to single parents with bad credit could be considered discrimination based on family status.
What Are Your Rights if Denied a Rental Due to Bad Credit?
If a landlord denies your application due to bad credit, ask them for written reasons. While landlords are not required by law to provide detailed explanations in all situations, you’re entitled to know if any personal or protected characteristic influenced their decision.
If you suspect discrimination beyond your credit score, you can file a complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. Be prepared to show evidence to support your claim.
Forms and Official Resources for Nova Scotia Tenants
- Form P – Application for Tenancy (Residential): Used for applying to rent from most landlords in Nova Scotia. Landlords may require you to fill this out and may request consent for a credit check. Download Form P (official PDF)[2]
- Form J – Application to the Director (for complaints or issues): Used if you feel your rights have been violated. Example: If you believe you were denied a rental due to discrimination, file this form with Service Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Program. Access Form J here[3]
The tribunal responsible for residential tenancies in Nova Scotia is the Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia).
Can Landlords Ask for Extra Deposits Instead?
Sometimes landlords might ask for a larger or extra deposit if your credit is poor. Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act limits the security deposit to no more than half a month’s rent—so landlords cannot request extra deposits, "last month’s rent", or other fees beyond what’s legally allowed.[1]
To understand deposit rules in greater depth, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Other Common Rental Application Issues
Nova Scotia tenants often face a range of challenges during the rental process—beyond just credit checks. These include understanding what landlords can ask for, what to expect after being accepted, and how to avoid scams. If you want to know more about your next steps after signing a lease, explore What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
Key Resources and More Information
Review a comprehensive summary of rights and responsibilities in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.
For those looking to move, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings that cover all budgets and needs.
FAQ: Bad Credit and Rental Applications in Nova Scotia
- Can a landlord run a credit check without my permission?
No, landlords must have your written consent before accessing your credit report. - Is poor credit a legal reason for denying a rental?
Yes, but only if that's the main reason and there’s no discrimination on protected grounds. - What steps should I take if I’m denied due to bad credit?
Request clarification in writing, check for possible discrimination, and, if necessary, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Program or the Human Rights Commission. - Are there limits on deposits or advance payments for tenants with bad credit?
Yes, Nova Scotia law limits deposits to half a month’s rent. Extra or higher deposits are not legal. - Where can I learn more about my rights as a Nova Scotia tenant?
Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia for more details.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia): For filing complaints, questions about your lease, or forms.
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission: To make a human rights complaint.
- Residential Tenancies Act (full legislation)
- Local tenants’ associations and legal aid services can assist with forms and representation.
- For the full legislation, see Residential Tenancies Act of Nova Scotia.
- Form P (Tenancy Application): official download.
- Form J (Application to Director): official download.
