After a robbery in your rental unit, Nova Scotia tenants often feel shaken and unsure what to do first. Start by calling the police to file a report and get the file number, then focus on safety and any urgent repairs. Contact your tenant contents or liability insurer quickly to understand coverage and time limits for claims. Tell your landlord about damage or broken locks and keep copies of every receipt, photo, and communication. If there is a dispute over repairs, security, or compensation, the Residential Tenancies Program can help resolve issues. This guide explains immediate steps, practical filing tips, and the forms and official resources Nova Scotia renters need to pursue insurance and tenancy remedies.
What to do right away
- Call 911 for emergencies or your local police non-emergency line to file a report and get the police file number.
- Document the scene with dated photos and a written list of stolen or damaged items; keep digital backups of every photo.
- Serve a written notice to your landlord describing damage, broken locks, or safety concerns and keep a copy for yourself.
- File an insurance claim with your tenant or home insurer promptly, noting the police file number and any claim deadlines.
- Secure the unit: change or request replacement locks if keys were taken and ask about temporary security measures.
- Keep all receipts for emergency repairs, replacement locks, temporary housing, and items you replace.
- Arrange only reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage; document costs and get written invoices.
Understanding insurance and coverage
Tenant insurance commonly has two parts: contents coverage for stolen or damaged belongings, and personal liability if someone is injured on your rental property. Deductibles, policy limits, and time limits for filing vary by insurer. When you call your insurer, ask for the claim reference number, required documents, and any deadlines. Keep a running log of calls and emails and save copies of all receipts and estimates.
When to involve tenancy services and what forms you may need
If your landlord refuses to secure the unit or disputes responsibility for repairs or access, you can seek help from the provincial tenancy office, the Residential Tenancies Program[1]. The primary legislation that governs landlord and tenant rights in Nova Scotia is the Residential Tenancies Act[2]. Common official forms include an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RT-1) to request a hearing or mediation; use it when you cannot resolve repair or security issues informally and need the Program to decide. For example, if a landlord delays fixing a broken lock after a robbery and you paid for a replacement, you could file Form RT-1 to seek reimbursement and an order to fix the issue[3].
Practical example: you file a police report, notify your insurer and landlord, pay for an emergency lock replacement, then submit the Application for Dispute Resolution with receipts and photos to request reimbursement.
Dealing with repairs, housing security, and landlord obligations
Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining locks and common-area security; tenants should report issues promptly in writing. If the landlord does not act, keep copies of your written requests, photos, and repair receipts. For urgent safety issues, follow the advice in the provincial guidance on emergency repairs and tenant rights; see the section on emergency steps and repairs for more on timing and acceptable work Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
How to work with your insurer
- Call your insurer immediately and give them the police file number and list of losses.
- Send your insurer photos, copies of receipts, and an inventory of stolen items.
- File any required claim forms by the insurer's deadline and keep copies of submitted materials.
- Ask whether temporary accommodation or replacement items are covered and what receipts they need.
When disputes happen
If your insurer denies a claim or your landlord disputes repair responsibility, prepare a clear bundle of evidence: the police report, dated photos, receipts, and copies of your written notices to the landlord. You can submit this material with an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Program[1] or seek consumer assistance for insurance disputes.
FAQ
- Do I have to have tenant insurance in Nova Scotia?
- Most landlords do not legally have to require tenant insurance, but some leases require it; tenant insurance is strongly recommended to protect your belongings and liability.
- What records should I gather after a robbery?
- Collect the police file number, dated photos of damage, an itemized list of stolen or damaged goods, receipts for replacements or emergency repairs, and copies of all messages to your landlord and insurer.
- How long do I have to file an application with the Residential Tenancies Program?
- Time limits can vary by the issue and the Program's rules; apply as soon as possible and include all supporting evidence to avoid delays.
How-To
- Call police and obtain a police file number immediately.
- Document damage and theft with dated photos and a written inventory.
- File a claim with your insurer and submit required claim forms and evidence.
- Secure the unit by changing locks or arranging emergency repairs and keep receipts.
- Notify your landlord in writing about damage and safety issues and keep a copy.
- If unresolved, submit an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Program including photos and receipts.
- Attend any scheduled hearings or mediation with your organised evidence and claim details.
Key Takeaways
- File a police report and document everything right away.
- Contact your insurer promptly and follow their claim steps.
- Secure the rental unit and keep receipts for temporary repairs.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Program if landlord repairs or reimbursements are disputed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
- Service Nova Scotia tenant information
