What is the Residential Tenancies Program?
The Residential Tenancies Program is the provincial office that handles repair orders, dispute resolution, and enforcement under Nova Scotia's tenancy rules[1]. Tenants can apply when serious health, safety or habitability problems are not fixed after a written request to the landlord.
When to ask for a Repair Order
If informal requests and a clear written notice do not prompt action, a tenant may seek a repair order for problems such as:
- heating failures or no hot water
- significant plumbing leaks or sewage issues
- dangerous mould or structural hazards
- persistent electrical faults that risk safety
How to apply for a Repair Order in Nova Scotia
Follow these steps before you file: document the problem, give the landlord a written request, and allow a reasonable time for repairs. If the issue continues, complete the repair order application form and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Program[3]. The usual practical steps are:
- Gather photos, videos and a dated log of communications with your landlord.
- Send a clear written request to the landlord describing the problem and the remedy you want; keep a copy.
- Wait a reasonable time for the landlord to act; what is reasonable depends on urgency.
- Submit the official repair order application to the Residential Tenancies Program and pay any required fee if applicable.
- Attend any hearing or inspection and bring your records and witnesses if available.
What to expect after filing
After you apply, the Program may arrange an inspection or set a hearing. If a repair order is granted, the landlord has a deadline to complete the work; the Program can enforce compliance. Decisions and orders reference the Residential Tenancies Act[2].
Costs and enforcement
The Program may order the landlord to make repairs or reimburse reasonable costs in certain situations. Tenants should not take dangerous do-it-yourself measures; instead, document the issue and follow the repair order process. If enforcement is needed, the Program uses provincial mechanisms to ensure compliance.
For routine or emergency repairs, read guidance on landlord and tenant responsibilities: Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
You can also search rental listings while you resolve issues: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- What is a repair order and who can apply?
- A repair order is a legal direction from the Residential Tenancies Program requiring a landlord to fix a problem; a tenant or occupant who is affected may apply.
- How long does the process take?
- Timelines vary by urgency and workload; minor issues may be processed faster, but more complex disputes can take several weeks to months.
- Can I withhold rent until repairs are done?
- Withholding rent is risky and generally not recommended without legal advice; follow the Program's process or seek help from legal clinics.
How-To
- Gather evidence: photos, videos, and dated communication logs.
- Send a written repair request to your landlord and keep proof of delivery.
- Allow a reasonable time for the landlord to fix the issue based on its urgency.
- File the repair order application with the Residential Tenancies Program and include copies of your evidence[3].
- Attend inspections or hearings and follow up on any orders issued.
Key Takeaways
- Keep written requests and photographic evidence for every repair issue.
- Use the official repair order form and follow Program instructions when filing.
- Act promptly but allow reasonable time for repairs, especially for emergencies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Program — Service Nova Scotia
- Residential Tenancies Act — Nova Scotia Legislature
- Repair order application and forms — Service Nova Scotia
