Reporting Non-Compliant Landlords in Nova Scotia: Tenant Guide

If you’re a tenant in Nova Scotia and your landlord is not meeting their legal obligations—whether that means inadequate repairs, unlawful entry, or even illegal rent increases—know that you have rights and options to hold them accountable. The province has established clear pathways for reporting non-compliant landlords. This guide explains every step, ensuring you’re supported throughout the process.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in Nova Scotia

Navigating landlord issues requires a basic grasp of your rights and your landlord's responsibilities. Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act sets out rules landlords must follow, including proper maintenance, respecting your privacy, and following lawful rent procedures. If you’re facing problems like withheld repairs, illegal deposits, or harassment, you’re protected by this legislation.

For a complete overview, you can refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Common Violations by Landlords

• Refusing to make necessary repairs or failing to address health and safety concerns
• Entering your unit without proper notice
• Charging illegal deposits or fees
• Unlawfully increasing rent or serving improper eviction notices

If these or similar issues arise, you have the right to formally report the matter and seek a resolution.

Who Handles Tenant Complaints?

In Nova Scotia, all official disputes between tenants and landlords—including reports of non-compliance—are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Program under Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services. This tribunal helps resolve complaints through applications, hearings, and enforcement of decisions.^[1]

How to Report a Non-Compliant Landlord: Step-by-Step

If attempts to resolve the issue directly with your landlord don’t work, you can formally report your landlord and request a hearing.

• Document the Issue: Keep a record of problems, communications, and dates. Photos, emails, and texts are valuable evidence.
• Submit the Right Form: Most tenant complaints are made using the official ‘Application to Director’ (Form C), available from the province. The form is used to request a hearing to resolve disputes like repair issues, unauthorized entry, or illegal rent increases.

Key Form: Application to Director (Form C)

• Name/Number: Application to Director, Form C
• When to Use: When your landlord violates the Act and informal resolution fails
• How to Use: Fill out details of your concern, attach evidence, and submit to your local Residential Tenancies Office
• Access Form C (official link)

Once submitted, you’ll be notified of your hearing date. Both you and your landlord will have a chance to present your case before the Director.

What Happens After You Report?

After your hearing, the Director will make a decision and can order your landlord to fix problems, compensate you, or comply with certain requirements. If your landlord ignores the order, you can pursue enforcement through Small Claims Court.

If your safety, health, or essential services are at risk, let the Residential Tenancies office know—emergency repairs and expedited hearings are available for urgent cases.

Other Helpful Tips and Related Topics

• For issues like chronic disrepair, pest infestations, or unsafe conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for guidance on your rights and next steps.
• If you’re unclear about the obligations of both parties or want to check your responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For tenants searching for a new home while dealing with disputes, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to discover reliable options across Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting Landlords in Nova Scotia

1. What should I do before reporting my landlord?
   Try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord. Keep written records and evidence. If this fails, proceed to fill out the ‘Application to Director’ (Form C).
2. Is there a fee to file a complaint?
   Currently, there is no application fee for tenants to submit Form C in Nova Scotia.
3. Can I be evicted for making a complaint?
   No. Retaliatory eviction for exercising your rights is not permitted under the Residential Tenancies Act.
4. How long does the process take?
   The timeline can vary, but most hearings are held within weeks of submitting your application. Urgent cases, like lack of heat or water, may qualify for faster action.

Conclusion: Your Rights and Steps to Take

• Nova Scotia law protects tenants from non-compliant landlord behavior
• If informal resolution fails, submit Form C to the Residential Tenancies Program
• Document everything and use official resources for guidance

By following these steps, you can enforce your rights and ensure fair treatment during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program – Main portal for all tenant applications and information
• Phone: 1-800-670-4357 (toll-free province-wide)
• Residential Tenancy Regulations – Full regulations under the Act
• Community legal clinics and tenant advocacy groups (Regional specific, contact local community centres for referrals)
• For a full overview of your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

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1. Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program: Official government page
2. Residential Tenancies Act, Nova Scotia: Full text of legislation
3. Application to Director Form C: PDF download

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