Move-Out Inspection Rights for Tenants in Nova Scotia

When your tenancy ends in Nova Scotia, understanding your move-out inspection rights is key to protecting your interests—especially when it comes to your security deposit and ensuring a fair process. As a tenant, you have specific rights and responsibilities regarding inspections before you hand over the keys. This article breaks down the rules, forms, and procedures so you know what to expect.

What Is a Move-Out Inspection?

A move-out inspection (sometimes called a "final inspection") is a walk-through of your rental unit with your landlord near the end of your lease. The purpose is to assess the condition of the property, note any damage, and compare it to its state when you moved in. This process helps determine if any of your security deposit will be withheld for repairs or cleaning beyond normal wear and tear.

Your Legal Rights as a Tenant

In Nova Scotia, tenant and landlord rights and obligations are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act¹. According to the Act, both parties should complete a move-in and move-out inspection to avoid disputes over property condition and deposit returns.

Either party may request a move-out inspection. Your landlord must offer you a reasonable opportunity to participate. You also have the right to receive a copy of the signed inspection report.

Why Move-Out Inspections Matter

• Protect your deposit: The inspection documents the unit’s state, helping you dispute unfair deposit deductions.
• Prevent disputes: Provides evidence in case of disagreements about damages.
• Encourage transparency: Ensures both parties agree on the property’s condition at the end of tenancy.

Step-by-Step: How a Move-Out Inspection Works in Nova Scotia

Here’s what tenants need to know to ensure a smooth process:

• Request or confirm the inspection date in writing with your landlord. It's ideal to do this a few weeks before moving out.
• Attend the inspection or send a representative if you can't be present.
• Review the inspection report and compare it to your move-in inspection report or notes.
• Ask for a completed, signed copy of the report for your records.
• Take your own photos or videos for evidence, especially if there are pre-existing damages or you disagree with findings.

Official Forms and What You Need

• Condition Inspection Report (No official Nova Scotia government number): This report is used for both move-in and move-out. It should be signed by both landlord and tenant. Obtain the current version from the official Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies inspection form. Complete this at move-in and move-out for your protection. Example: Anna completes an inspection report with her landlord when moving out. Both sign, and she keeps a copy as proof to reclaim her deposit and show the unit was left in good shape.
• If you cannot attend the proposed inspection time, communicate alternative dates promptly in writing.

If There’s a Dispute About Damages or Deposit

If the landlord wants to keep part or all of your security deposit, they must provide an itemized statement and proof of the damages within 10 days of your move-out. If you and your landlord disagree, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Program for dispute resolution. For steps to recover your deposit, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

For Ongoing Issues or Concerns

If you have issues with cleaning, repairs, or disputes, read Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more guidance. You can also apply for an order through the Residential Tenancy Program.

Who Oversees Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia?

The official body handling residential tenancies is the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program. This program handles complaints, applications, and disputes related to rental housing and move-out issues.

Relevant Legislation

All move-out rights are set out in Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act (official legislation link).

Accessibility and Discrimination

Remember: Under provincial and federal human rights law, tenants can’t be treated unfairly during move-out due to disability, race, family status, or other protected grounds. If you need help due to mobility, sight loss, or other accessibility issues, ask the landlord for reasonable accommodation during inspections.

Moving Out: Helpful Resources

For more moving-out guidance, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Want to find your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—with listings and helpful resources for every province.

To learn more about your basic rights, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Frequently Asked Questions: Move-Out Inspections in Nova Scotia

1. Is the landlord required to do a move-out inspection in Nova Scotia?
   Although not strictly required by law, both tenant and landlord are encouraged to complete it. It’s in both parties’ best interest to document the condition of the unit.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t do a move-out inspection?
   Document the unit’s condition yourself (photos, videos, witness) and keep all move-out communication in writing. You can request a move-out inspection in writing as well.
3. Do I have to agree with the inspection report?
   No. Only sign the report if you agree with it. Make notes about any disagreement, and keep a copy. If you disagree with any claimed damages, you may dispute them through the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program.
4. How soon must my landlord return my security deposit after move-out?
   Within 10 days after your move-out, unless there’s a dispute.
5. Can I bring someone with me to the inspection?
   Yes, tenants have the right to bring a witness or representative to assist during the inspection.

Key Takeaways

• Move-out inspections protect tenants and their deposits—always request and document the process.
• Use official forms and take your own photos for evidence.
• If you disagree with your landlord, dispute the matter through the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program.

Understanding these steps can help you exit your rental smoothly and avoid headaches over disagreements and deposit returns.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program – File forms and disputes, get up-to-date information, and contact staff for help.
• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission – If you believe you’ve faced discrimination.
• Legal information and tenant advocacy: Local services include Dalhousie Legal Aid Service and Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
• Download and use official forms from Nova Scotia’s inspection report portal.
• Find more information and support at Houseme - your rental solution in Canada.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, Nova Scotia: Full Act (PDF)
2. Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program: Program Website
3. Nova Scotia Inspection Report Form: Official Form
4. Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission: Commission Site

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