What counts as landlord discrimination in Nova Scotia?
Discrimination in housing occurs when a landlord treats a tenant or applicant differently because of a protected characteristic. Common protected grounds include family status, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, and source of income. Provincial tenancy rules and related human rights laws set out prohibited practices and provide avenues for remedies and penalties for landlords who discriminate.[1]
Examples and common scenarios
- Refusing to rent because the applicant uses social assistance or a housing subsidy.
- Charging a higher deposit or different payment terms based on race, family status, or other protected ground.
- Telling a tenant to move out or not renewing a lease because of a disability or because they have children.
- Refusing reasonable accommodation requests for disabilities, such as allowing an assistance animal.
Penalties and remedies tenants can seek
If discrimination is proven, remedies can include orders to stop discriminatory behaviour, financial compensation, or other corrective orders. Decisions are often issued by provincial authorities that handle tenancy disputes, and enforcement can vary depending on the nature of the breach.[2]
- Compensation for monetary loss, lost housing opportunity, or damages for humiliation.
- Orders requiring the landlord to change policies or make accommodations to prevent future discrimination.
- Administrative orders that may affect the landlord's ability to use certain tenancy notices or certain enforcement actions.
FAQ
- How do I know if I was discriminated against by a landlord?
- You may have been discriminated against if the landlord treated you differently because of a protected ground (for example, family status, disability, race, or source of income); keep written notes, messages, and witnesses to support your claim.
- Who handles discrimination complaints in Nova Scotia?
- Residential tenancy disputes and human rights complaints are handled by provincial tenancy services and human rights bodies; you may need to use both routes depending on the issue and remedy sought.[2]
- Can I get money back or other compensation?
- Yes. If a decision-maker finds discrimination, they can order monetary compensation for losses, orders to change landlord practices, and other remedies appropriate to the situation.
How-To
How to file a discrimination complaint and prepare for a tenancy hearing in Nova Scotia.
- Gather evidence: keep emails, texts, ads, photos, witness names, receipts and any written notices showing different treatment.
- Identify and complete the correct official form: for tenancy disputes use the provincial application or complaint form and follow the instructions on the official site.[3]
- File within deadlines: submit your application and supporting documents by the required date to avoid losing the right to a hearing.
- Attend any scheduled hearing: bring originals and copies of evidence and be prepared to give a clear timeline of events.
- Seek help: contact tenant advisory services or legal clinics if you need assistance preparing forms or evidence.
What to expect at a hearing
Hearings are usually informal but follow a process: both sides present evidence, witnesses may speak, and the adjudicator asks questions before making a decision. Decisions will explain the reasons and any orders, including penalties or compensation if discrimination is found.
If you need alternate housing
If discrimination has left you searching for housing, consider using trusted listing platforms and local supports; you can also check deposit rules and tenant obligations before signing any new lease. See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for guidance on deposits and responsibilities.
Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Service Nova Scotia - Residential Tenancies
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act
- Official tenancy complaint and application forms
