Do I have to sign a written lease in Nova Scotia?

While verbal leases are valid for periodic tenancies, your landlord must provide you with a Standard Form of Lease (Form P). Having a written lease helps prevent misunderstandings.

How much can my landlord ask for as a deposit?

Landlords may only charge up to half a month's rent as a security deposit. Charging extra upfront fees is not allowed.

What is the minimum notice I need to give to end my lease?

For month-to-month rental agreements, you must provide at least one full rental period’s notice in writing using the Notice to Quit (Form C).

If my lease ends, does it automatically renew?

In most cases, a fixed-term lease converts to a month-to-month arrangement unless either party gives proper written notice to end it.

Where can I go if I have a dispute with my landlord?

You can apply to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program, which handles rental disputes, evictions, and deposit issues.

Leases & Agreements FAQ for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Leases & Agreements Nova Scotia published July 01, 2025

Understanding the ins and outs of leases and agreements is essential for every tenant in Nova Scotia. This guide answers frequently asked questions about leasing in the province, explains important legal forms, and highlights your rights under the current law. Whether you’re moving in, renewing, or preparing to move out, knowing your responsibilities helps you avoid common disputes and protect your interests as a renter.

What is Considered a Valid Lease in Nova Scotia?

A lease (also called a tenancy agreement) is a legal contract between a landlord and a tenant outlining the terms of renting a place to live. In Nova Scotia, most leases must be in writing, but even verbal agreements are generally valid for periodic tenancies. For all new rentals, landlords must provide tenants with a fully completed Form P: Standard Form of Lease.

Form Name: Standard Form of Lease (Form P)
Use: Required for all new residential tenancies
Where to find it: Nova Scotia Standard Form of Lease (Form P)
Example: When you move into a new apartment, your landlord should give you this form to sign. It sets out rules about rent, deposits, notice, and other key terms.

For a lease to be enforceable, both the tenant and the landlord need to sign it, and copies should be provided to all parties. The lease must abide by Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1].

Security Deposits and Upfront Fees

Landlords in Nova Scotia can only request a security deposit up to one half of one month’s rent. Other upfront fees or extras (like 'application fees') are not allowed under the law.

Deposits must be returned (with interest) within 10 days after you move out, unless the landlord makes a claim for damages or unpaid rent, following proper procedures.
Rental deposits must not be used as last month’s rent unless both parties agree.

To learn more about your rights, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Can My Rent Be Increased During My Lease?

In Nova Scotia, landlords must follow strict rules for increasing rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent cannot be increased until the term ends. For periodic leases, landlords must give at least 4 months’ written notice before an increase, and the increase can occur only 12 months after the last increase or the start of the tenancy.

If you receive a notice about a rent increase and have concerns, you may contact the provincial tribunal or seek advice from tenant support organizations.

Lease Renewals and Ending Your Tenancy

At the end of a fixed-term lease, if you continue to live in the unit and neither party gives proper notice, the rental often continues month-to-month under the original agreement’s terms. To end your lease or give notice, you must use the official Notice to Quit form:

Form Name: Notice to Quit
Use: To end a tenancy agreement (time required depends on lease type and reason)
Where to find it: Notice to Quit (Form C)
Example: If your lease is ending or you want to move out, use this form to provide your landlord with the correct amount of notice (usually at least 1 full rental period for month-to-month tenancies).

For more details, check Lease Renewals: What Tenants Should Know About Their Rights.

What Are My Responsibilities After Signing a Rental Agreement?

Once you sign a lease, you have certain obligations under the law. This includes paying rent on time, taking good care of the rental, and following any terms outlined in the lease as long as they comply with the Residential Tenancies Act. Landlords have responsibilities too, such as providing a safe home and making repairs when needed.

See more about your ongoing duties in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Nova Scotia?

The Residential Tenancy Program is the tribunal that oversees all rental disputes, eviction hearings, and tenant applications in Nova Scotia. If you experience a problem that cannot be resolved with your landlord, you can file an application with this board for mediation or a formal hearing.

Key Legislation & Official Resources

Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – Main law governing rentals
Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program – Tribunal/Board site

For More Information

To compare your rights across the country, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia. For available listings in your city or across Canada, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sign a written lease in Nova Scotia?
While most landlords prefer a written agreement, verbal leases are legal for periodic tenancies. However, your landlord must provide you with a copy of the Standard Form of Lease (Form P), and it’s best to have everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
How much can my landlord ask for as a deposit?
Landlords may only charge up to half a month's rent as a security deposit. Any extra upfront fee is not allowed.
What is the minimum notice I need to give to end my lease?
For month-to-month tenancies, at least one full rental period’s notice is required, given in writing using the Notice to Quit (Form C).
If my lease ends, does it automatically renew?
Usually, a fixed-term lease converts to a month-to-month arrangement unless you or your landlord give proper notice to end it.
Where can I go if I have a dispute with my landlord?
You can apply to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program, which resolves issues like evictions or security deposit disputes.

How To: Ending Your Lease Correctly in Nova Scotia

How do I properly end my tenancy as a tenant?
Give written notice using the Notice to Quit (Form C). Ensure you provide it to your landlord with at least the minimum notice required for your lease type (usually one full rental period for month-to-month tenancies).
How do I get my security deposit back?
After moving out and returning all keys, your landlord must return your deposit (plus accrued interest) within 10 days unless they file a claim for damages or unpaid rent.
How can I dispute an issue with my landlord?
Apply in writing to the Residential Tenancy Program for mediation or a hearing. You can find guidance and forms on their official website.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Always get your lease in writing and keep a copy (ask for Form P if not provided).
Security deposits are limited by law and should be returned within 10 days of moving out if no valid claim is made.
Contact the Residential Tenancy Program if you face unresolved issues with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program: General inquiries, forms, and legal resources.
Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia): Full legislation text.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid: Tenant Rights: Free legal information and tenant support.
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia