Emergency Shelter Solutions for Evicted Tenants in Nova Scotia

If you’ve just been evicted in Nova Scotia, it can be overwhelming to find a safe place to stay at short notice. This guide explains what emergency shelter options are available for evicted tenants in Nova Scotia, your legal rights, and where to find help. Whether you need immediate shelter or help securing longer-term housing, you’ll find trusted steps and resources tailored for Nova Scotia tenants.

Quick Overview: What to Do Immediately After Eviction

Eviction can feel sudden, but there are steps you can take right away to keep yourself and your family safe:

• Contact local shelters or housing support hotlines for a safe place to stay.
• Reach out to friends, family, or community organizations if you need urgent help.
• Know your legal rights—eviction must follow an official process under Nova Scotia law.

If you're unsure about the eviction process or your rights, see our Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia for a helpful overview.

Emergency Shelters and Temporary Housing in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia offers several shelter services for individuals and families who are suddenly without a home. Availability may change quickly, so always phone ahead or check online for current openings.

• Halifax Regional Municipality: Shelters like Metro Turning Point, Barry House, and Adsum House offer beds to men, women, and families. Some provide meals and referrals to community resources.
• Outside Halifax: Look for shelters in major towns such as Sydney (Cape Breton), Truro, and Yarmouth. Many operate 24/7 and can provide immediate accommodation.
• Provincial Homelessness Services: The Nova Scotia Department of Community Services coordinates emergency shelter access and can connect you with agencies in your area. For details or to find a local shelter, call 211 at any time (Nova Scotia 211) or visit their website.

For more detailed steps and tips on moving after eviction, check our Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Your Rights During and After Eviction

As a Nova Scotia tenant, your landlord must follow a formal process outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. You generally cannot be evicted on the spot without a valid order from the Residential Tenancies Program (RTP), which handles disputes and eviction orders. Review the official guidance at the Residential Tenancies Program for more info or to appeal an eviction.

If the eviction seems unfair or you didn’t receive proper notice, you may be able to challenge it. Make notes of all communications and keep copies of any forms or orders you receive.

Official Forms: What You Need After Eviction

• Application to Director (Form J): Use this form if you wish to dispute the eviction or request urgent action from the Residential Tenancies Program.
  When and How to Use: For example, if you believe the eviction was not issued properly or want to seek time to remove your belongings, fill out Form J as soon as possible. Download the form or submit online via the official RTP application portal.
• Request for Hearing (Form K): File this if you need a tribunal hearing—for example, contesting an eviction or seeking to reclaim property after being locked out.
  When and How to Use: Suppose you received an eviction order and want to present your case at a hearing; Form K is required. Download and submit through the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program.

Always keep copies of any forms you submit. Contact the RTP directly at their contact page if you have questions.

Other Housing Options to Consider

If emergency shelters are full or not right for your situation, consider:

• Short-term rental options (motels, hostels, rooming houses). Local community agencies can help with referrals.
• Exploring government rent supplement programs or emergency housing support through Nova Scotia’s Department of Community Services. Listings and support information can be found through Housing Nova Scotia.
• Searching for new long-term rentals. Browse apartments for rent in Canada and use filters for Nova Scotia options.

Planning for your next accommodation means reviewing deposit requirements, health and safety, and tenant responsibilities in new rentals. See our Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for tips before your next move.

How to Apply for Shelter or Housing Help: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simple process for getting emergency shelter assistance after eviction in Nova Scotia:

• Step 1: Call 211 or visit the Nova Scotia 211 website. They will connect you with available shelters and support in your location.
• Step 2: Ask about any rent supplement programs or urgent housing assistance.
• Step 3: Gather your essential documents (ID, any legal paperwork from your eviction, and proof of income if possible).
• Step 4: If you wish to formally dispute your eviction or need more time, fill in the required RTP forms (see above) right away.

Summary: Acting quickly and contacting the right services will give you the best chance at stable temporary housing after an eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are my immediate options for shelter if I'm evicted in Nova Scotia? Most large communities have emergency shelters coordinated through 211 Nova Scotia. You can call 211 anytime or use their online tool to find a shelter near you.
2. Who handles eviction disputes and rental housing rights in Nova Scotia? The Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program is the primary body for handling tenant-landlord disputes and eviction appeals.
3. What forms do I use if I want to challenge my eviction? Use the Application to Director (Form J) to make an urgent request or Request for Hearing (Form K) for a tribunal hearing about your eviction.
4. Is it legal for my landlord to remove me immediately? In Nova Scotia, landlords cannot remove tenants without following the legal process and an official order under the Residential Tenancies Act.
5. Where can I look for affordable new rentals in Nova Scotia after eviction? You can Browse apartments for rent in Canada, including Nova Scotia listings, on national platforms like Houseme.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Act quickly—call 211 for immediate help finding an emergency shelter in Nova Scotia.
• Use official Residential Tenancies Program forms if you want to challenge the eviction.
• Understand your rights as a tenant and find support when planning your next housing move.

With the right contacts and information, you can navigate this difficult situation and find safe, temporary housing until you’re back on your feet.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• 211 Nova Scotia (Shelter Updates & Referrals): Call 211 or visit ns.211.ca
• Residential Tenancies Program (Disputes & Forms): Official portal
• Department of Community Services (Housing Support): Housing Nova Scotia
• Additional Rights Information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of Nova Scotia
2. Residential Tenancies Program (Government of Nova Scotia)
3. 211 Nova Scotia – Find Shelter and Community Support
4. Rent Supplement and Housing Programs – Government of Nova Scotia

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