Tenant Rights: Immigration Status Discrimination in Nova Scotia

Roommates & Shared Housing Nova Scotia published: June 13, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia

Discrimination based on immigration status is an important issue affecting many tenants seeking shared housing or roommates in Nova Scotia. Understanding your legal rights can help create a safer, fairer living environment, especially if you are renting or sharing a rental as an immigrant or newcomer in Canada.

Can Landlords or Roommates Discriminate Based on Immigration Status?

In Nova Scotia, it is generally unlawful for landlords or existing tenants (including those offering rooms in shared housing) to discriminate against renters because of their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin. This protection comes from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in the provision of housing.[1]

Some common examples of prohibited discrimination include:

  • Refusing to rent, sublet, or allow a roommate because of your immigration/citizenship status
  • Imposing different rental terms or higher rent
  • Requiring extra deposits, documentation, or references that are not required of other tenants
  • Harassment or threats relating to your immigration status
If you believe you have faced discrimination, start documenting what happened—dates, names, and what was said or done. This information can be very helpful if you need to file a complaint.

Your Rights as a Tenant or Roommate

All tenants in shared housing, including those renting rooms or on informal agreements, have fundamental rights under provincial law. For a summary, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia. Key protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) apply in both private and shared housing.[2]

  • Right to fair treatment regardless of immigration status
  • Protection against eviction or denial of housing on discriminatory grounds
  • Access to essential services and safe accommodation

It's important to know that prospective roommates advertising a "room for rent" are also covered by human rights laws. Everyone, not just landlords, must follow these rules.

What To Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you have been treated unfairly because of your immigration status, there are steps you can take to assert your rights and seek help. These steps apply whether you are dealing with a landlord, a main tenant, or a roommate.

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1. Keep Records

  • Write down the details of what happened: date, time, who was involved, and what was said or done.
  • Save any text messages, emails, or rental ads as evidence.

2. Contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission investigates complaints of discrimination, including those related to housing. You can file a complaint by completing their official form:

  • Form: Discrimination Complaint Form (no formal number)
  • How to Use: Complete if you have evidence or reasonable belief that you were denied housing, evicted, or treated differently because of your immigration status.
  • Where to Find: Download or submit the form online

Once your complaint is submitted, the Commission may follow up for more details or start an investigation.

3. File a Rental Dispute (If Your Rights as a Tenant Are Violated)

If you are already a tenant and your landlord takes action against you (such as eviction or withholding services), you may be able to file an Application to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancy Program:

  • Form: Form J – Application to Director
  • When to Use: If your landlord tries to evict you or change your terms due to discrimination, use this to start a formal complaint with the rental authority.
  • Link: Form J – Application to Director (Nova Scotia)
Take action as soon as possible. Strict deadlines may apply, especially if you are facing eviction or urgent threats to your housing.

How the Law Protects You

The protections described above apply across all types of housing, including rentals, rooming houses, and shared accommodations. Landlords and tenants must also honor your rights under tenancy laws after the rental agreement is complete. For more on general rights and obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For anyone looking to find or share housing, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to browse safe, inclusive listings for all residents and newcomers.

FAQ: Discrimination and Roommates in Nova Scotia

  1. Can roommates choose who they want to live with in Nova Scotia? While everyone has a right to choose their living arrangements, advertising or rejecting potential roommates due to citizenship, national origin, or immigration status is prohibited by the Human Rights Act.
  2. What if my landlord asks for immigration documents not required from other tenants? This could be considered discrimination. Landlords should treat all applicants equally and not set different standards based on immigration status.
  3. Can I be evicted for not having permanent residency? No. Your immigration status alone cannot be used to legally evict you. All tenants in Nova Scotia have rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, regardless of immigration or citizenship.
  4. Where can I file a complaint about discrimination? Contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission or, for tenancy-related disputes, apply to the Residential Tenancy Program.
  5. If I'm subletting, do human rights rules still apply? Yes. Whether you are on the lease, subletting, or renting a room informally, you have legal protection from discrimination in shared housing.

Key Takeaways

  • Discrimination based on immigration status is illegal in Nova Scotia's rental and shared housing markets.
  • Keep records and act quickly if you experience or witness discriminatory behavior.
  • Both the Human Rights Commission and Residential Tenancy Program are available to help tenants assert their rights.

Remember: Support is available. Know your rights and where to seek assistance if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, S.N.S. 1991, c. 12, Nova Scotia Human Rights Act (official PDF)
  2. Residential Tenancies Act, R.S.N.S. 1989, c. 401, Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
  3. Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, Official Website
  4. Residential Tenancy Program, Service Nova Scotia, Tribunal/Board Information

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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