Living in Nova Scotia during cold months means tenants and renters often rely on portable heaters or portable generators during outages. Knowing the safety rules protects your health, prevents fires, and helps you stay within tenancy agreements. This guide explains what tenants should and should not do with space heaters and generators, when to notify your landlord, and how to document risks and requests for repairs. It also links to official provincial guidance, the Residential Tenancies Program[1], and the relevant legislation[2]. If you need safety tips for generators, follow provincial fire-marshal guidance[3]. For alternative housing while repairs are arranged, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you search quickly.
Safety basics for portable heaters and generators
Portable heaters and generators are useful but can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Tenants should follow basic safety measures, keep clear records, and tell landlords promptly about any risks or required repairs.
- Keep portable heaters at least one metre away from curtains, furniture, clothing and other combustibles.
- Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on each level of the rental unit and replace batteries as needed.
- Never run a generator inside the building, basement, garage or near open windows and vents.
- Keep written records and photos of where you place heaters or generators, and of any signs of soot, smell of gas, or water damage.
- Report persistent heating failures or unsafe conditions to your landlord in writing and request repairs promptly.
Who is responsible: tenant vs landlord
Tenancy agreements and provincial rules determine responsibilities. Generally, landlords must provide and maintain safe heating and ensure the unit meets basic habitability standards. Tenants must use heaters and generators safely and avoid actions that damage the property or create hazards.
- If a heating system breaks, a tenant should notify the landlord in writing and keep a copy of the notice for records.
- If the landlord does not arrange timely repairs, tenants can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancies Program[1].
- Document dates, times, photos and any communication about unsafe heating so you have evidence if you need to file a complaint.
Safe use rules for tenants
Follow these practical steps whenever you use portable heaters or fuel-powered generators.
- Only use heaters that are in good condition and approved for indoor use; follow the manufacturers instructions.
- Keep a clear, unobstructed space around heaters and never dry clothes on or above them.
- If you smell gas, see sparks, or notice unusual carbon monoxide detector activations, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
- When using a generator outside, place it on stable, level ground away from windows and vents; use heavy-duty outdoor-rated cords for appliances.
What to do if your landlord wont fix unsafe heating
Start by notifying the landlord in writing, keep copies, and set a reasonable deadline for repairs. If the landlord does not act, you can file an application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Program[1] citing health and safety concerns and referencing the Residential Tenancies Act[2]. Include photos, receipts, and records of communication.
- Write a clear repair request that explains the hazard, the impact on habitability, and a request for action by a specific date.
- Gather evidence: photos of heaters, generator placement, alarm readings, and any medical or inspection reports.
- If the dispute is not resolved, bring the documentation to the Residential Tenancies Program for a hearing or decision.
Practical examples and tenant-friendly forms
Below are two commonly used tenant-focused forms or requests and how to use them.
- Written repair request (no standard number): Use a dated letter or email describing the issue, how it affects your ability to live safely, and set a reasonable deadline for the landlord to respond. Example: "The apartment has no heat since Jan 10; please arrange repairs by Jan 13 and confirm in writing." Attach photos.
- Application for dispute resolution (Residential Tenancies Program): When the landlord does not fix hazards, file an application with the Program asking for an order to repair or compensation. Example: submit the application with copies of your written requests, photos, and dates of missed deadlines.
For templates and filing instructions, see the Residential Tenancies Program page where official guidance and how to apply are provided.[1]
FAQ
- Can my landlord ban all portable heaters?
- Landlords can include reasonable safety rules in a lease, but an outright, unreasonable ban that leaves a unit without safe heating may conflict with habitability standards under provincial rules.
- Am I allowed to use a generator during an outage?
- Yes, but only outdoors and well away from the building, windows and vents. Never use fuel-powered generators indoors or in attached garages because of carbon monoxide risks.
- What should I include when I file a dispute about unsafe heating?
- Include dates, copies of written notices to the landlord, photos, alarm readings, and any receipts or reports showing the hazard or attempts to repair it.
How-To
- Contact your landlord immediately in writing to report the heating or generator safety issue and request repairs.
- Document the problem with dates, photos, and any communication; keep copies of everything.
- If the landlord does not fix the problem, apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Program and attach your evidence.
- Attend any scheduled hearing or provide additional documents when asked by the tribunal or program officers.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
- Nova Scotia Office of the Fire Marshal: Portable generator safety
