Forwarding Address Obligations in Nova Scotia

Giving a forwarding address when you move out is a small step that protects Nova Scotia renters’ rights and makes final accounting - like returning security deposits or serving important notices - much simpler. Whether you’re ending a lease or vacating early, providing a clear, written forwarding address helps landlords send you final statements, itemized deductions, and any required notices. If a landlord can’t reach you, it can complicate deposit returns or dispute timelines. This article explains practical steps tenants should follow in Nova Scotia, when to give a forwarding address, what to expect about deposits and notices, and how to raise a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Program if needed.

Who must give a forwarding address?

Tenants who are ending a tenancy in Nova Scotia should give a forwarding address in writing so landlords can return any security deposit, issue a final accounting, or serve further notices under provincial rules. The Residential Tenancies Program handles tenancy disputes and provides guidance for both tenants and landlords on obligations and timelines ^[1]. The obligations and timelines are set out in provincial legislation, which tenants should review before moving out ^[2].

Why a forwarding address matters

• Security deposit: landlords use a forwarding address to return your deposit or an itemized statement of deductions after tenancy ends.
• Notices and forms: a forwarding address lets landlords serve final notices, rent statements, or dispute forms correctly.
• Deadlines: some dispute timelines run from the date you receive a notice or from the end of the tenancy, so an address helps avoid missed deadlines.

How to give your forwarding address

1. Write a short dated notice that includes your full name, the old rental address, your new mailing address, and a phone or email for follow-up; sign and date it.
2. Deliver the notice before you move out: hand it to the landlord, email it if the lease allows electronic service, or send it by tracked mail so you have proof of delivery.
3. Keep copies of the notice and any delivery receipts or screenshots of email; these are useful if you need to file a dispute.
4. If you expect a deposit return, confirm how and when the landlord will send the funds and where to send a final security-deposit statement.

Before you move, check practical moving guidance for tenants such as Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and for deposit-specific steps see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out. If you need to find a new rental, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to search listings.

When to file a dispute

If your landlord keeps your deposit without a valid written explanation or does not return required notices to your forwarding address, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for a hearing and decision. Before filing, gather your written forwarding-address notice, move-out photos, receipts, and any correspondence. Use the official application process to start a dispute ^[1].

FAQ

Do I have to give a forwarding address when I move out?

No law forces you to provide a forwarding address, but giving one in writing makes it straightforward for landlords to return deposits and serve notices.

What if I don’t receive my deposit after giving a forwarding address?

Keep proof you gave a forwarding address and file an application with the Residential Tenancies Program to request return of the deposit and any owed interest.

Can a landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?

Landlords may deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear but must provide an itemized list and receipts if they keep part of your deposit.

How-To

1. Draft a signed, dated forwarding-address notice with your name, former address, and new address.
2. Deliver the notice by hand, tracked mail, or approved email before you vacate and keep proof of delivery.
3. Document the unit condition with photos and keep receipts for any repairs you paid for.
4. If the landlord doesn’t respond, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program with your evidence to request a hearing.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Program - Government of Nova Scotia
• Residential Tenancies Act and Nova Scotia Legislature
• Nova Scotia Legal Aid

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Program - Government of Nova Scotia
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act - Nova Scotia Legislature
3. [3] Residential Tenancies Program forms and applications - Government of Nova Scotia