Discrimination & Accessibility Rights Checklist for Nova Scotia Tenants

Every tenant in Nova Scotia has the right to live free from discrimination and to access a safe, suitable home. This guide helps you identify and address potential discrimination and accessibility barriers in your rental journey, from applying for a unit to living comfortably over the long term.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1] and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act^[2] protect tenants from discrimination based on factors such as race, religion, sex, family status, disability, age, and more. Landlords must provide equal treatment to all applicants and tenants throughout the renting process.

• No one can be denied a rental unit, evicted, or treated unfairly because of any protected characteristic.
• Requests for accessibility accommodations must be taken seriously by landlords, unless it would cause them “undue hardship.”
• Advertising and application processes cannot exclude protected groups.

For an overview of tenant protections and landlord duties, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Discrimination & Accessibility Checklist

1. Applying for a Rental

• Was the rental listing free from discriminatory language (e.g., “adults only,” “no families,” or “no persons with disabilities”)?
• Did the application process treat everyone fairly, regardless of background, disability, or family status?
• Were questions only about relevant rental criteria, such as ability to pay rent—not protected characteristics?

2. Barrier-Free Access and Accommodations

• Do the building’s entrances, hallways, or amenities require modifications for your mobility, vision, or hearing needs?
• If you submit a request for a reasonable accommodation—such as permission for a service animal or an accessible parking spot—did the landlord respond promptly and work toward a solution?
• Does the rental agreement mention the accessibility features or accommodations discussed?

3. During Your Tenancy

• Is your home free from harassment or unequal treatment from the landlord, staff, or other tenants?
• Are maintenance requests for accessibility adaptations handled fairly and in a timely manner?
• If a new barrier arises (e.g., changed building policy, broken elevator), does the landlord take it seriously?
• Have you documented all communications requesting accessible features or reporting discrimination?

4. Ending the Tenancy or Renewal

• If faced with a notice to move out, was the reason unrelated to a protected characteristic?
• Were you given a fair chance to renew or extend your rental on the same terms as other tenants?

For more about landlord and tenant obligations regarding repairs or modifications, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Action Steps for Tenants Facing Discrimination or Accessibility Issues

If you encounter discrimination or barriers, these are the key steps to take:

• Document every communication with your landlord about discrimination or accessibility.
• Ask for accommodations in writing and give reasonable details.
• If your landlord refuses or ignores your request, remind them of their legal obligations under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.
• If still unresolved, you can file a complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

Tenants can also address rental repair issues and overall health and safety concerns, which often relate to accessibility, through official tenancy avenues. If you face problems such as lack of accessibility modifications, consider reviewing Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more details.

Relevant Forms for Nova Scotia Tenants

• Form J – Application to Director
  When to use: If your landlord fails to make agreed-upon accessibility modifications or discriminates, submit this form to the Residential Tenancy Program.
  Official Form J - Application to Director
  Example: A tenant requests an accessible ramp, but the landlord ignores the request. The tenant completes Form J, explains the issue, and files it with Service Nova Scotia.
• Complaint Form – Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission
  When to use: To report discrimination based on disability, race, gender, family status, or other protected grounds.
  File a Human Rights Complaint
  Example: Your application for an apartment was denied after the landlord learned you have a guide dog. You file a complaint using the Commission's online process.

The official body handling rental disputes in Nova Scotia is the Residential Tenancy Program (Service Nova Scotia).

Legal Protections in Nova Scotia

• Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
• Nova Scotia Human Rights Act

Finding Accessible Rentals in Canada

For those searching for rentals with specific accessibility features or that welcome diverse tenants, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and use filters for location and amenities tailored to you.

FAQ: Discrimination & Accessibility for Nova Scotia Tenants

1. What is considered discrimination by a landlord in Nova Scotia?
   Discrimination happens when a landlord treats you unfairly based on protected characteristics—such as race, disability, religion, age, or family status—at any point in the rental process. This includes advertising, application, during your tenancy, or at renewal/eviction.
2. Can I ask my landlord to make accessibility modifications?
   Yes. You have the right to request reasonable accommodations (such as ramps or door widening). Landlords are required to consider such requests unless doing so would cause undue hardship.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation?
   Document your request. Respond in writing, explain why the accommodation is necessary, and if problems persist, file a complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission or consider applying through the Residential Tenancy Program.
4. Who can help if I experience housing discrimination?
   You can contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission or file an application with the Residential Tenancy Program for support and dispute resolution.
5. Are there legal protections for service animals in rental housing?
   Yes. Service animals are considered an accommodation for persons with disabilities. Landlords cannot refuse to rent or evict you for having a service animal.

How To: Take Action on Discrimination and Accessibility Issues

1. How do I make a formal request for accessible modifications?
   Submit a written request to your landlord, describing your need and proposed accommodation. Attach supporting documents if available.
2. How do I file Form J with the Residential Tenancy Program?
   Complete Form J, include any evidence (emails, photos, written requests), and deliver it to your local Access Nova Scotia office in person, by mail, or as specified on the form. Keep a copy for your records.
3. How do I file a discrimination complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission?
   Visit their complaints page, fill in the online form, and submit the required information. A Human Rights Officer will contact you to discuss next steps.

Key Takeaways

• Discrimination and accessibility rights are protected by law for all tenants in Nova Scotia.
• You can request reasonable accommodations for accessibility, and landlords are required to consider them.
• Document every step and seek help if you face discrimination—support is available from official agencies.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Program (Service Nova Scotia) — Guidance, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — File discrimination complaints and access advocacy services.
• Access Nova Scotia – Rental Housing Information
• Overview of Nova Scotia rental protections: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
2. [2] Nova Scotia Human Rights Act

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