Landlord and Tenant Board in Nova Scotia: Your Rights Explained

If you're renting a home or apartment in Nova Scotia, understanding the role of the provincial board that oversees landlord and tenant relationships is essential. The board ensures that both tenants and landlords follow the law and have a fair process for resolving housing disputes, such as rent increases, maintenance, or evictions. This article covers the basics every tenant needs to know about the Board, the forms you may need, and where to get official help.

What Is the Main Tenancy Board in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, the official body that manages rental disputes and enforces residential tenancy law is the Residential Tenancies Program. This program acts as the Landlord and Tenant Board for Nova Scotia. It is responsible for processing disputes, handling applications for rent increases or evictions, and explaining tenant and landlord rights under the law.

The governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia).^[1]

Key Functions of the Board

The Board helps tenants and landlords resolve disputes and uphold their legal responsibilities. Common issues handled include:

• Evictions and notices to quit
• Problems with repairs or maintenance
• Concerns over rental payments or deposits
• Disagreements about rent increases

Both parties are encouraged to resolve problems through communication first. If issues persist, the Board provides a fair, step-by-step dispute resolution process.

What Rights and Responsibilities Are Protected?

The Board ensures that tenants' rights and landlord obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act are respected. These include the right to a safe and properly maintained home, protection from unlawful eviction, and clear rules about notice periods and deposits.

To learn more about tenant and landlord duties, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained or review the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia summary page.

Common Forms and Applications for Tenants

When formal action is needed (like a dispute or a request), you must use official forms provided by the Residential Tenancies Program. Here are key forms tenants may need:

• Application to Director (Form J): Use this if you and your landlord cannot solve a problem informally. For example, if your landlord does not return your security deposit or complete essential repairs, file Form J.
  Get Form J from the official site.
• Notice to Quit (Form C or C1): If you need to move out or your landlord serves you notice, Form C (fixed-term/periodic) or C1 (month-to-month) is used. Example: If you've received a Notice to Quit, read it carefully and consider reaching out to the Board if you have questions about timing or grounds.
  Download Notice to Quit (Form C1).
• Request for Director’s Order (various): Used to enforce repair orders, dispute rent increases, or request return of a deposit.
  • Example: If you win a dispute and your landlord still hasn't acted, you may apply for an enforceable order from the Board.
  • See all approved forms at the official forms portal.

If you need help preparing or submitting a form, the Board offers assistance by phone or online.

How Does the Dispute Process Work?

If a disagreement can't be resolved between you and your landlord, filing an Application to the Director (Form J) brings the issue to the Board. A Residential Tenancy Officer will review your case and may schedule a hearing. Both parties have a chance to present evidence before a decision is made.

Examples of Issues the Board Handles

Some of the most common tenant concerns addressed by the Board are:

• Disputes over security or damage deposits
• Unaddressed maintenance and repair issues
• Questions about the legality and calculation of rent increases
• Eviction notices or pressure to move out early

Find helpful guidance on issues like deposits in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

For those looking for their next rental in Nova Scotia or elsewhere, Canada's best rental listings platform can streamline your search.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Board

1. Who can apply to the Board for help?
   Both tenants and landlords may apply if they have an unresolved issue related to their rental agreement or property.
2. How do I submit a Notice to Quit?
   Fill out the correct form (Form C or C1) and give it directly to your landlord or deliver it according to the instructions on the form. Always keep a copy for your records.
3. Can I appeal a decision?
   Yes. If you disagree with a Board decision, you can appeal to the Small Claims Court within 10 days of receiving the order.
4. What happens if my landlord doesn't follow the Board's order?
   You can request enforcement through the Board or, in some cases, through the court system.
5. Where can I find more about my rights as a tenant in Nova Scotia?
   Start with the official Board website or check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Summary: What Every Nova Scotia Tenant Should Remember

• The Residential Tenancies Program is Nova Scotia's official dispute resolution board
• Key forms include Form J (application), Form C/C1 (notice to quit), and enforcement requests
• Tenants have strong rights under the Residential Tenancies Act—know your options and keep good records

For most issues, start with communication, then turn to the Board if needed for fair, legal resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program: Apply online, download forms, and find guides
• Phone: 1-800-670-4357 (Service Nova Scotia)
• Nova Scotia Tenants Rights Guide (non-governmental, for information only)
• For local support, contact Shelter Nova Scotia or your local legal aid office

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
2. Residential Tenancies Program — Government of Nova Scotia

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