Requesting Rental Repairs in Nova Scotia: Process & Sample Letter

If you're a tenant in Nova Scotia and your rental home needs repairs, it's crucial to understand your rights and how to properly request maintenance from your landlord. This article outlines everything Nova Scotia tenants need to know about repair requests, from initial communication through to official complaint forms, with practical tips and links to government resources.

Understanding Your Right to Repairs in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Act guarantees that tenants have the right to live in a property that meets health, safety, and repair standards. Landlords must maintain rental units in good repair and comply with health and safety regulations throughout the tenancy.

Common repair issues might include leaky plumbing, broken appliances, pest infestations, or unsafe conditions. Tenants are responsible for reporting problems promptly.

What Should Tenants Do When Repairs Are Needed?

• Document the issue as soon as you notice it – take photos or videos if possible.
• Contact your landlord in writing, describing the problem with as much detail as possible.
• Keep a copy of all communications.
• If it's an emergency (e.g., no heat in winter, severe water leaks), inform your landlord immediately and in writing.

For health and safety concerns, also see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Sample Repair Request Letter

Here's a basic template tenants in Nova Scotia can use:

Subject: Request for Repair – [Brief Description]
Date: [Date]
To: [Landlord's Name and Address]

Dear [Landlord's Name],

I am a tenant at [Your Address]. I am writing to request repairs for the following issue(s):
- [Describe the problem, e.g., "The kitchen sink is leaking and has caused water damage under the cabinet."]

Please let me know when you or a professional will be able to make the necessary repairs. I look forward to resolving this as soon as possible.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

Send this by email or deliver a printed copy. Always keep a record.

The Official Repair Complaint Process in Nova Scotia

If your landlord does not address your written repair request within a reasonable time, you can formally apply for help through the Residential Tenancies Program, which is the official government tribunal for residential rental disputes in the province.

Filing a Formal Complaint: Form C (Application to Director)

• Form Name: Application to Director (Form C)
• When To Use: If your landlord has not made requested repairs after you notified them in writing.
• How To Use: Complete Form C, stating details of the repair issue and your communication attempts. Attach supporting documents or photos.
• Official Source and Form: Nova Scotia Form C (Application to Director)

Once filed, a Residential Tenancies Officer will review your application and may schedule a hearing or inspection. If they agree the landlord failed to make needed repairs, they can issue an order requiring the landlord to act.

Emergency Repairs

If the repair situation endangers your health or safety, contact your landlord immediately. If there is no response and immediate action is needed, you can seek emergency support through municipal services or apply directly to the Residential Tenancies Program.

For more on urgent situations, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Step-by-Step: How to Request Repairs in Nova Scotia

• Document the issue and gather supporting evidence (photos, videos, receipts).
• Send a written repair request to your landlord and keep a copy.
• Allow a reasonable time for repairs (usually 7–14 days, or immediately if urgent).
• If there is no response, fill out Form C (Application to Director) and submit to the Residential Tenancies Program.
• Participate in any mediation or hearing organized by the tribunal.

Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities

Both parties must cooperate in the repairs process. Tenants must allow reasonable access for inspections and work, while landlords must ensure repairs are completed promptly. Read more about obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Key Resources and Legislation

• Residential Tenancies Program – Government of Nova Scotia
• Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia – Key facts for renters in the province

If you want to find a better-maintained home, Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Houseme's easy search.

FAQs: Nova Scotia Tenant Repair Requests

1. What if my landlord refuses to do necessary repairs?
   If your landlord ignores your written repair request, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Program using Form C. The tribunal may order repairs to be completed.
2. How long must I wait before filing a formal complaint?
   You should allow a reasonable period (typically 7–14 days) for your landlord to respond, unless it is an emergency.
3. Can I withhold rent until repairs are finished?
   No, tenants cannot legally withhold rent due to outstanding repairs. Instead, use the official complaint process to address the issue.
4. What counts as an emergency repair?
   Emergencies are situations that threaten health or safety, like no heat in winter, flooding, or exposed wiring. Contact your landlord right away and seek help if needed.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

• Always make repair requests in writing and keep detailed records.
• Use official forms (like Form C) if your landlord does not resolve the problem.
• You have the right to safe and well-maintained rental housing under Nova Scotia law.

Following these steps helps ensure your repair concerns are taken seriously and properly addressed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Program, Government of Nova Scotia – For inquiries and to submit Form C.
• Toll-Free Information Line: 1-800-670-4357
• Local Tenants' Rights Groups: Contact Access Nova Scotia for referrals.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia): Official Statute
2. Residential Tenancies Program: Government Information & Forms

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