If your rental unit in Nova Scotia is broken into, it can feel overwhelming; tenants need clear, practical steps to stay safe, preserve evidence, and use tenancy and police processes. This page explains immediate safety actions, how to record damage and missing items, what to tell your landlord or property manager, and how to apply to the province's dispute system if repairs or compensation are needed. You will find guidance on official forms, examples of when to file them, and links to the Residential Tenancies Program and relevant legislation so you know where to get help and what to expect next as a renter in Nova Scotia.
What to do immediately after a break-in
- Call 911 or your local police right away and report the break-in; ask for a file number and the investigating officer's name.[3]
- Make sure everyone in the unit is safe; seek medical help for injuries and go elsewhere if you do not feel secure.
- Do not touch or move potential evidence; photograph damage, broken locks, and missing items as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Notify your landlord or property manager in writing (email or text is fine) and describe the incident, damage, and immediate needs.
- Ask the landlord to secure the unit (locks, windows) or arrange temporary repairs; keep records of any costs you pay.
Rights and responsibilities under Nova Scotia tenancy rules
In Nova Scotia tenants have rights to a safe, secure and habitable rental unit and landlords have responsibilities to maintain locks, doors, windows and overall security. If a break-in causes damage or loss, tenants should report the incident to police, notify the landlord in writing, and request repairs or compensation. The provincial Residential Tenancies Program handles disputes between tenants and landlords and the Residential Tenancies Act sets out legal standards and remedies for tenants and landlords.[1][2]
Common tenant actions and what they mean
- Give written notice to the landlord describing damage and any urgent repairs you need; this creates a paper trail.
- Collect evidence: photos, police file number, witness names, and receipts for any emergency fixes you pay for.
- If the landlord does not act on urgent repairs, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for a remedy.
- Keep personal safety first; do not attempt to re-enter a unit before police clear it.
Official forms and how to use them
Use official forms to request dispute resolution or document requests and repairs. The Residential Tenancies Program provides downloadable forms and instructions on what to file and when.[1]
- Application for Dispute Resolution (Residential Tenancies Program) — Used when you need the Program to decide on repairs, compensation for damaged or stolen property, or if you and the landlord cannot agree. Example: you pay for an emergency lock change after a break-in and apply to recover the cost.
- Written Notice to Landlord (no specific form required) — A clear written message asking for repairs or compensation creates proof of your request; include dates, photos, and any police file number as an example.
How landlords typically respond and what to expect
Landlords should arrange timely repairs for security issues and may be required to compensate tenants for reasonable costs incurred if they fail to act. Keep copies of all communications and receipts. If informal requests fail, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for a decision; the Program may order repairs, cost recovery, or other remedies depending on the facts.[1]
FAQ
- Do I have to pay rent if my unit is unsafe after a break-in?
- If parts of the unit are unsafe but still habitable you generally must continue paying rent, though you can request repairs or compensation; raise the issue with your landlord and, if needed, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program.
- Can my landlord enter my unit after a break-in to inspect damage?
- Landlords may enter for repairs or inspections with proper notice unless there is an emergency; if immediate entry is needed to secure the unit, the landlord should still inform you as soon as possible.
- What if the landlord refuses to repair locks or secure the unit?
- Keep written requests and receipts for emergency work you arrange, then apply to the Residential Tenancies Program to seek reimbursement or an order requiring repairs.
How-To
- Call police, get a file number, and follow their instructions for evidence preservation.
- Notify your landlord in writing with photos and the police file number and request immediate security repairs.
- Gather evidence: photos, witness names, receipts for emergency repairs, and keep a dated log of events.
- If the landlord does not act, submit an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Program detailing your claim and attaching your evidence.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Put your safety first and call police immediately after a break-in.
- Document everything with photos, receipts, and written notices to the landlord.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Program if the landlord does not make timely repairs or provide compensation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia legislation)
- Find your local police or RCMP detachment
