Dealing with Housing Discrimination as a Tenant in Nova Scotia

Facing discrimination in your search for a rental or shared home in Nova Scotia can be discouraging—but the law offers you clear protections. This guide breaks down your rights, how to recognize unlawful discrimination in housing, and the steps to take if you need to make a complaint in Nova Scotia.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, it's illegal for landlords, property managers, or roommates to discriminate against tenants or prospective tenants based on attributes such as race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, or source of income. These protections apply whether you are renting an apartment, room, or shared house.

Where Do These Rights Come From?

Your protections come from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act. This law covers every stage of the rental process, from searching for a place to handling issues after you've moved in.

To learn more about general rental rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

Discrimination can occur in many situations, including:

• Being refused a viewing or rental based on your background, family status, or disability
• Different terms, rent, or security deposit based solely on personal characteristics
• Harassment or being made to feel unwelcome by other tenants or roommates
• Eviction threats tied to your gender identity, religion, or other protected grounds

Sometimes, issues may overlap with Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them, so it's important to recognize when a problem is actually discrimination under the law.

What to Do if You’re Experiencing Discrimination

If you believe you've faced discrimination, don't ignore it. Here's a quick summary of your potential actions:

• Document what happened, noting times, places, who was involved, and what was said or done
• Try speaking with the landlord or other person involved to clarify or resolve the issue, if you feel safe
• Consider filing a formal complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission
• Seek support from tenant advocacy groups if you need guidance or advocacy

Remember, you have the right to be treated fairly, regardless of your living situation. The law protects you in both traditional rentals and shared/roommate settings.

How to File a Human Rights Complaint in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission is the government body that handles claims of discrimination in housing. To begin, you must use the official Complaint Form:

• Name: Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission Complaint Form
• Where to get the form: How to Make a Complaint
• How it works: Complete the online form or download and fill out a PDF. It will ask you to describe what happened, when and where, and what grounds you are claiming. Submit the completed form online or send it to the Commission by mail or email. The Commission will assess your complaint and may assign a staff member to investigate or help mediate.

Details matter: include as much relevant information as possible, and attach evidence if you have it (emails, messages, witness contact info).

What Happens After Filing?

Once your complaint is submitted, the Commission will review it for completeness and jurisdiction. You may be contacted for more info or an interview. The process may involve informal resolution, mediation, or, if necessary, a formal hearing. Remedies can include compensation, policy changes by the landlord, or orders for non-discriminatory practices in the future.

Your Rights Under the Law: Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act

Besides the Human Rights Act, tenants in Nova Scotia are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act. This law outlines your rights around rental agreements, privacy, and maintenance. If you experience discrimination related to repairs, eviction, or other rental issues, you may also contact the Residential Tenancy Program.

For a helpful overview of tenant rights and landlord duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Filing with the Residential Tenancy Program

If your discrimination claim also involves issues like eviction or withheld deposits, you may need to file a claim with the Residential Tenancy Program. Official forms and guidance are available at their official forms page. Check which form best fits your exact situation—for example, a Form J - Application to Director for settling disputes about tenancy rights.

FAQ: Housing Discrimination for Nova Scotia Tenants

1. What is considered housing discrimination in Nova Scotia?
   Discrimination includes being treated unfairly by a landlord, roommate, or property manager due to a protected characteristic like race, religion, disability, family status, or gender.
2. Who investigates discrimination in tenant housing in Nova Scotia?
   The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission handles housing discrimination complaints.
3. Can discrimination happen in shared housing or roommate situations?
   Yes, the law applies regardless of whether you rent a full apartment or share space—roommates cannot discriminate on protected grounds.
4. Is there a time limit for filing a complaint?
   Yes, you must file within one year of the discrimination event in Nova Scotia.
5. Where can I find more information about general tenant rights?
   You can review your rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Key Takeaways

• Nova Scotia law prohibits discrimination in all residential housing, including shared homes and rentals
• If you face discrimination, document everything and consider a human rights complaint
• Both the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and Residential Tenancy Program offer complaint options

Standing up for your housing rights can help protect you and promote fair treatment for all Nova Scotia renters.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission – File discrimination complaints or get information
• Residential Tenancy Program of Service Nova Scotia – Dispute resolution, tenancy forms, termination, and landlord-tenant assistance
• Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia – Free legal info and referrals
• Nova Scotia Legal Aid: Housing Law – May assist with human rights issues for eligible tenants
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. Nova Scotia Human Rights Act: Read the Human Rights Act
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia): Read the Residential Tenancies Act
3. Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission complaint process: How to Make a Complaint
4. Residential Tenancy Program: Official NS Tenancy Information

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