How to Remove an Eviction from Your Record in Nova Scotia

If you have recently faced an eviction in Nova Scotia, you may be worried about what this means for your future when searching for a new place to live. Understanding how eviction records work, whether they can be removed, and what steps you can take after an eviction is essential for protecting your rights and finding stable housing again. This guide explains how evictions appear on your record in Nova Scotia, your rights as a tenant, and practical steps you can take moving forward.

How Are Evictions Recorded in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, official evictions are processed through the Residential Tenancies Program. When a landlord applies to end a tenancy and an eviction order is granted, this decision is typically recorded in the Residential Tenancies files. Evictions themselves are not recorded in a public "tenant blacklist" or on your credit report. However, information may be accessible to landlords who check Residential Tenancy orders and, in some cases, through public court records if the case proceeds in Small Claims Court.

What Landlords Can See When Screening Tenants

• Landlords may do background checks and request references from previous landlords.
• If an eviction case went to court, court records may be searchable online.
• Credit reports can show collections or judgments (e.g., unpaid rent), but not the eviction itself unless there’s a financial judgment.

While eviction orders are not automatically shared with commercial tenant screening databases, repeated or serious issues could be discovered by diligent landlords during application screening.

Can You Remove an Eviction from Your Record?

Currently, Nova Scotia does not offer a formal process to erase or expunge eviction records from the official files of the Residential Tenancies Program or from any court records. Once an eviction order is finalized, it becomes part of the official administrative record. However, there are certain circumstances where you may challenge or clarify your record:

• If you believe the eviction was ordered in error, you can apply for a review of decision.
• If the landlord did not follow the correct legal process, the eviction may be invalidated on appeal.

Otherwise, there is no official process to "remove" a successful eviction application from the provincial database. However, you can still take steps to explain or demonstrate that you have resolved any issues with previous landlords when applying for a new rental.

How to Challenge or Review an Eviction Order in Nova Scotia

If you received an eviction order you believe was incorrect, you have a short window to file for a review or appeal. The main form used is:

• Application to Review the Order (Form K): Used when you believe the hearing officer made a significant error or if you did not receive proper notice. You must file this within 10 days of the order being issued. Download the official Application for Review (Form K) from the government website.

Tenant example: If you were evicted for non-payment but had already caught up on rent, you might use Form K to challenge the order.

How to Minimize the Impact of an Eviction Record

While you can't erase an eviction from official files, you can reduce its future impact by:

• Resolving any outstanding financial debts (e.g., rent arrears), which keeps them off your credit report.
• Gathering positive references from other landlords.
• Explaining the circumstances honestly to new landlords when applying for future housing.
• Checking your credit report to make sure inaccurate information about the eviction is not reported there.

Rights and Steps After an Eviction

Nova Scotia tenants whose agreements have ended still have important rights, including collecting their security deposit, if applicable. For practical guidance on moving forward after eviction—including inspecting your old unit or retrieving a deposit—see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

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Your Rights as a Tenant in Nova Scotia

Understanding your legal protections is key. Nova Scotia’s main tenancy law is the Residential Tenancies Act, which sets out rules for tenancy agreements, notices, and hearings¹. To learn more about your rights and obligations, visit the full Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia guide.

FAQ: Eviction Records and Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia

1. Will an eviction automatically show up on my credit report in Nova Scotia?
   No, eviction decisions by the Residential Tenancies Program do not appear on your credit report unless there’s a money judgment or unpaid rent sent to collections.
2. Can I rent again after being evicted?
   Yes, many tenants successfully rent again. Providing honest explanations, references, and proof that any debts are paid can help.
3. Is there a "bad tenant list" in Nova Scotia?
   No official public list exists. Landlords may access Residential Tenancy decisions if they know the details or look up court judgments, but there is no blacklist.
4. How long does an eviction stay on record?
   There is no law that erases Residential Tenancies Orders or court records. These may be accessible for several years, depending on administrative and court procedures.
5. What if my eviction was unfair or made by mistake?
   Apply for a review using Form K within 10 days of the order, with supporting evidence. See the government guide for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia government) – applications, forms, and tenant support: 1-800-670-4357
• Nova Scotia Tenants Rights Coalition – advocacy, tenant education, and support
• Official Nova Scotia Tenant's Guide – practical information on ending agreements and eviction processes
• Search for support services and housing resources through your local municipality or community legal aid office

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)

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