Do I have to use Form P, or can my landlord give me a custom lease?

All new leases in Nova Scotia must include at least the terms set by Form P. Custom leases cannot override its protections.

What happens if my landlord does not use Form P?

Even without Form P, its legal terms still apply to your tenancy. You can request a copy from your landlord or the Residential Tenancies Program.

Can a landlord ask for more than half a month's rent as a deposit?

No, landlords may not require more than half a month’s rent as a security deposit in Nova Scotia.

Is a verbal agreement valid in Nova Scotia?

Yes, but the protections of Form P and the Residential Tenancies Act still apply. Written agreements are strongly recommended.

Where can I get help if I have lease disputes?

Contact the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program for information and dispute resolution services.

Form P Lease Explained: Nova Scotia Tenant Guide

Leases & Agreements Nova Scotia published June 27, 2025

Form P, the Standard Form of Lease in Nova Scotia, plays a crucial role in protecting tenants and setting clear expectations with landlords. If you're renting in Nova Scotia, understanding Form P is essential for your peace of mind and legal security. This guide explains what the form covers, where to find it, and what you need to know before and after signing a lease.

What Is Form P – Standard Form of Lease?

Form P is an official document required by the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act. It standardizes the key terms and conditions for most residential tenancies in the province. All new leases in Nova Scotia must include at least the terms in Form P, even if your landlord provides a custom lease. Any lease that tries to take away tenant rights granted under Form P or provincial law is not legal.

Where Can You Find Form P?

The official Form P – Standard Form of Lease is available in PDF format from the Government of Nova Scotia. Download Form P from the Government of Nova Scotia website.

What Does Form P Include?

Form P outlines the essential legal terms for all residential leases, including:

Names of the landlord and tenant(s)
Rental unit address and description
Amount of rent and when it’s due
Security deposit conditions
Rules on rent increases, entry, and repairs
Terms for ending the lease
Legal responsibilities and rights under the Residential Tenancies Act

Even if you and the landlord sign a separate rental agreement, the main tenant protections in Form P still apply. Before signing, tenants should carefully review every section, and make sure their landlord has provided all the details required by law.

Why Is Form P Important?

Form P ensures that both tenants and landlords are clear on their rights and obligations. For tenants, it guarantees fundamental protections, like limits on security deposits and clear procedures for repairs and ending tenancies.

Key Legal Protections for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Here are some crucial protections included in Form P:

Security Deposits: Landlords can only require up to half a month's rent as a deposit, and must follow specific rules for returning it. For details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Rent Increases: Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease, and specific notice is required by law.
Maintenance and Repairs: Landlords must keep the unit safe and in good repair, following health and safety standards.
Ending the Lease: There are mandatory notice periods for ending a lease, with special rules for fixed-term, yearly, and monthly agreements.
Prohibited Clauses: Any lease that tries to override Form P’s protections, such as asking for higher deposits or waiving tenant rights, is not valid under Nova Scotia law.

For a full overview of local rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

The Tribunal That Handles Rental Disputes

All tenant and landlord disputes are handled by Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Program. If you have problems with your lease or believe Form P was not followed, you can apply for assistance or dispute resolution.

How to Use Form P as a Tenant

When renting in Nova Scotia, you should:

Request a copy of Form P (or ensure your lease includes all its terms)
Read it carefully before signing
Ask questions if any part isn’t clear
Keep a copy after signing for your records

If your landlord doesn't provide Form P, or there’s a disagreement, it’s your right to request it and refer to the official version.

What Happens After Signing Form P?

Once you've signed the lease, you’ll have new rights and responsibilities. For practical next steps after moving in, check out What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement and review tips for settling into your new rental home.

Quick Reference: Main Points in Nova Scotia Standard Lease

Legal protections in Form P apply to almost all residential rentals
Both landlord and tenant must sign, and both receive a completed copy
Protect yourself by understanding the lease before moving in

If a disagreement arises about your lease’s terms, the Residential Tenancies Program can review your agreement and ensure your legal rights are respected.

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FAQs: Nova Scotia Leases & Standard Form of Lease

Do I have to use Form P, or can my landlord give me a custom lease?
All new leases must include at least the terms set by Form P. A landlord can give you a different lease, but it cannot take away any rights or protections provided by Form P or the Residential Tenancies Act.
What happens if my landlord does not use Form P?
If Form P is not provided, the law still applies, and the required terms of Form P are in effect for your tenancy. You have a right to request a copy from your landlord or the Residential Tenancies Program.
Can a landlord ask for more than half a month's rent as a security deposit?
No, the maximum allowed deposit is half the monthly rent. Anything above that is not legal and should be reported to the Residential Tenancies Program.
Is a verbal agreement valid in Nova Scotia?
Verbal agreements are legally recognized, but all tenancies are automatically covered by Form P's terms. Always request a written lease for clarity and protection.
Where can I get help if I have lease disputes?
You can contact the Residential Tenancies Program for mediation or to file a formal application for dispute resolution.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Form P sets out mandatory rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords in Nova Scotia
Tenants should always review and keep a signed copy of Form P
If your landlord doesn’t provide it, you are protected by its terms regardless

Making sure you understand and follow Form P helps ensure a safe and fair renting experience for everyone.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program: Inquiries, disputes, and tenant resources
Download Form P – Standard Form of Lease
Service Nova Scotia – Landlord and Tenant Information
For comprehensive rights info, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia