Tenants and renters in Nova Scotia need clear, practical information about repair and maintenance responsibilities so problems are fixed promptly and safely. This guide explains what landlords must provide, what tenants should handle, and how to make a written request for repairs. It covers timelines for routine and emergency repairs, documentation tenants should keep, and when to escalate a problem to the Residential Tenancies Program[1] or rely on the Residential Tenancies Act[2]. Use these steps to protect your health and your tenancy while keeping communication organized and respectful.
Who is responsible for repairs in Nova Scotia?
In Nova Scotia the basic rule is that landlords must provide and maintain the rental unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation. That generally includes heating, plumbing, hot water and major structural or safety repairs. Tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and report damage or maintenance needs promptly. If a tenant causes damage beyond normal wear, the tenant may be responsible for repair costs.
Landlord responsibilities
- Ensure heating, hot water and plumbing work properly and repair failures promptly.
- Fix structural issues, roofing leaks, and building systems that affect health or safety.
- Provide clear contact and emergency information so tenants can report urgent problems.
Tenant responsibilities
- Report maintenance and repair needs to the landlord promptly and in writing when possible.
- Keep the unit reasonably clean to avoid pest or damage problems and document any existing damage at move-in.
- Follow rules in the lease about routine upkeep and notify the landlord before making any alterations.
Requesting repairs: practical steps for tenants
Follow clear steps so your repair request is taken seriously and you have evidence if a dispute arises.
- Send a written repair notice to the landlord describing the problem, the location, and the date you first noticed it.
- Document damage with dated photos or short video and keep a short log of calls and messages.
- Keep receipts for any purchases or emergency fixes you pay for if the landlord agreed you should do the work.
- For emergencies that threaten safety or major property damage, call the landlord immediately and take safety steps first.
- If repairs are not made in a reasonable time, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for dispute resolution[1].
FAQ
- Who pays for routine maintenance like replacing light bulbs or batteries in smoke alarms?
- Routine small items are often the tenant's responsibility unless the lease says otherwise; however, landlords must ensure smoke alarms and essential safety devices are installed and working.
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- An emergency is anything that makes the unit unsafe or uninhabitable, such as no heat in winter, major water leaks, gas leaks, or electrical hazards.
- Can I withhold rent if my landlord does not make necessary repairs?
- No. Withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction. Use written notices and the Residential Tenancies Program or the applicable tribunal instead.
How-To
- Describe the problem clearly and include the date and location within the unit.
- Attach dated photos or video showing the issue.
- Send the notice by email or a delivery method that gives you a record, and follow up with a phone call if urgent.
- Keep copies of all communication, invoices, receipts, and any responses from the landlord.
- If the landlord does not respond in a reasonable time, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Program to request mediation or an order[1].
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Program (Government of Nova Scotia)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia Legislature)
