Package Theft at Nova Scotia Rental Buildings

Many renters in Nova Scotia are seeing more package thefts at multi-unit buildings. As a tenant, you need practical steps to reduce risk, document losses, and know how to report incidents to police and the Residential Tenancies Program.^[1] This article explains prevention options you can ask your landlord for, what to do right after a theft, how to use official forms, and when to escalate a complaint. It uses plain language for tenants and renters so you can act quickly, protect evidence, and understand your rights in Nova Scotia if deliveries go missing. You'll also find links to the provincial program and forms, steps to file a police report, and tips for working with your landlord to improve building security.

Why package theft happens in rental buildings

Package theft in apartment buildings often happens because deliveries are left in common areas, building entry is uncontrolled, or visible packages sit unattended for hours. Couriers follow delivery protocols, but the risk rises when there is no secure drop-off point, no on-site staff, or poor lighting. Theft can be opportunistic and may involve visitors, passersby, or even people familiar with the building.

Prevention steps tenants can take

• Keep photos and delivery notifications for each package as proof of delivery and condition.
• Ask your landlord or manager to improve building safety with better lighting and CCTV focused on common delivery areas.
• Request locked parcel lockers, a secure package room, or concierge delivery where available.
• Arrange timed or scheduled deliveries so packages aren't left unattended for long periods.
• Use alternative delivery options such as workplace delivery, pickup points, or a neighbour you trust when possible.

What landlords and property managers should do

Landlords and managers can reduce theft by creating secure delivery zones, installing parcel lockers or cameras aimed at drop areas, and setting clear building rules for staff and couriers. They should also communicate procedures to tenants and respond promptly when security concerns are raised. Tenants can refer landlords to municipal safety programs or building best practices and can ask for reasonable measures under their tenancy agreement and local standards. For broader tenant safety information, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and consult landlord-tenant obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

After a theft — immediate actions for tenants

• Report the theft to the police as soon as possible and get a police file number for insurance and tribunal purposes.^[3]
• Keep all evidence: delivery emails, screenshots, photos of where the package was left, and timestamps from courier apps.
• Notify your landlord or property manager in writing, describing the incident and attaching evidence; keep a dated copy.
• Contact the courier to open an investigation and request proof of delivery details from their records.
• Check whether the seller, delivery company, or your payment protection covers loss and start a claim if appropriate.

Official forms and when to use them

When informal steps fail, tenants in Nova Scotia can use provincial forms to request help from the residential tenancy authority. The primary form is the Application to the Residential Tenancies Program, which you use to ask the program to review disputes about rights, repairs, or failures to provide agreed services. For example, a tenant who reported repeated delivery-area thefts and an unresponsive manager may file an application after giving written notice and keeping copies of communication and evidence.^[2] The forms page lists applications and guidance for filing and what supporting documents to include, such as photos and police reports.

FAQ

What should I do immediately after my package is stolen?

Report to the police for a file number, save delivery proof and photos, tell your landlord in writing, and contact the courier to start a claim.

Can my landlord be held responsible for package theft?

It depends on the lease terms and whether the landlord failed to provide agreed security or reasonable measures; document requests and responses before filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Program.

How do I file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Program?

Gather evidence, complete the appropriate application form, attach copies of communication and police reports, and submit to the Program following the instructions on the official forms page.

How-To

1. Document the loss: capture photos, screenshots of delivery messages, and note the exact delivery time.
2. Report to the police within 24 hours and obtain a file number to support insurance or tribunal claims.^[3]
3. Notify your landlord in writing, attach your evidence, and request specific security actions or remediation.
4. Complete the Application to the Residential Tenancies Program if the landlord does not act; include evidence and the police file number.^[2]
5. Attend any scheduled review or hearing with organized evidence and a clear timeline of notifications and responses.
6. Follow the Program's decision and, if necessary, use orders or directions to negotiate remedies or security improvements.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia)
• Residential Tenancies forms and instructions (Service Nova Scotia)
• Report a crime or contact local police (RCMP / police services)

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies forms and instructions (Service Nova Scotia)
3. [3] RCMP - national policing information and contact