Can my landlord make me move out as soon as the property sells?

No. The sale does not automatically end your tenancy. You can only be required to move if the formal notice process is followed and only for certain reasons, with written notice.

What notice period must I get if the buyer or new owner wants to move in?

You must be given at least two months’ written notice using the approved Notice to Quit form for a month-to-month lease.

Will my security deposit be safe during and after the sale?

Yes. Your security deposit becomes the responsibility of the new landlord, who must return it (with applicable interest) when your tenancy ends, provided there are no lawful deductions.

Can my landlord enter for showings without notice because the property is being sold?

No. The landlord or their agent must give you at least 24 hours' written notice before every showing, unless you agree otherwise.

Where can I go for help if I feel my rights are being violated?

You can contact the Residential Tenancies Program in Nova Scotia, access legal aid services, or seek support from local tenant advocacy organizations.

Tenant Rights When Your Landlord Sells the Property in Nova Scotia

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Nova Scotia published: June 13, 2025

Many tenants worry about what happens if their landlord decides to sell the rental property. In Nova Scotia, the law protects tenants and sets out clear steps landlords and buyers must follow. This article explains your rights, notice requirements, and practical advice if your home is being sold.

What Happens When a Landlord Sells a Rental Property?

When a landlord sells a property in Nova Scotia, tenants have specific protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. The sale alone does not end your tenancy or lease.

If you have a fixed-term lease (e.g., for one year), the new owner must honour your lease until it ends, unless you agree otherwise.
If you rent month-to-month or week-to-week, the tenancy continues automatically with the new owner unless the proper legal process is followed to end it.

The buyer takes over as landlord, including all responsibilities and obligations to you, the tenant.

Your Rights as a Tenant During a Property Sale

As a tenant, your main rights include:

Remaining in your home with the same terms and conditions of your lease
Receiving all legal notices in writing and within required timeframes
Receiving reasonable notice for showings (usually 24 hours), unless you agree otherwise
Receiving your security deposit back from either the previous or new landlord at the end of your tenancy

For more about your ongoing obligations and what continues after a sale, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

When Can a Tenant Be Asked to Move Out?

The sale itself does not automatically end a tenancy. However, the new owner may wish to move in themselves or have close family do so. In this case, they must use the correct legal notice procedure.

Form “Notice to Quit” (Form C): Required if the buyer or their close family member will be moving in. The new owner must give you at least 2 months’ written notice to end a month-to-month tenancy (or 1 month if you rent weekly). For fixed-term leases, they usually must wait until lease end.

You can view the official Notice to Quit forms and instructions on the Nova Scotia government website.

Entry for Showings and Open Houses

While the property is for sale, your landlord (or their real estate agent) has a right to show the unit to potential buyers, but must:

Give you at least 24 hours’ written notice for each showing
Schedule showings between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Ensure your privacy and minimize disruption

What Happens to Your Security Deposit?

Your security deposit is still protected if the property is sold. The new landlord becomes responsible for returning your deposit when your tenancy ends, unless you and the previous landlord agree to another arrangement. For more details about deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Forms Must Be Used and When?

Notice to Quit (Form C): Use if the new owner or their family is moving in. Must be given at least 2 months before you are required to leave (for monthly tenancies).
Find the official form: Notice to Quit - Form C (Nova Scotia)
Change of Landlord Form: There is no special form for notifying you of the change in landlord, but you must receive information in writing about who the new landlord is and how to contact them.

Tip: If you receive a written notice to move because of a sale, always confirm the notice is on the correct official form and observe the timeline given. If you have concerns about the form or your rights, contact Service Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Program for clarification.

Where to Find Official Rules and Help

Residential tenancy disputes or questions in Nova Scotia are handled by the Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia). They provide forms, book hearings, and offer advice for both tenants and landlords.

Summary: Key Steps for Tenants

Don’t panic if your landlord sells – the sale does not end your lease.
Expect at least 24 hours’ notice before showings.
Review any written Notice to Quit carefully; check timing and reason.
Stay current on rent – the new landlord has the same right to collect it.
Contact the Residential Tenancies Program if you need advice or want to dispute an eviction notice.

Remember: You have the right to a safe, respectful tenancy even when ownership changes. Seek help early if you’re unsure about your situation.

Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia, including details specific to your province.

Browse apartments for rent in Canada and explore new options if you’re planning a move: Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord make me move out as soon as the property sells?
No. The sale itself does not end your tenancy. The new or existing landlord must follow formal notice requirements. Usually, only if the buyer or close family need to move in can you be required to leave, and with proper written notice.
What notice must I get if the new owner wants to move in?
You must receive at least two months’ written notice (Form C) for a month-to-month lease, or the remaining term for a fixed-term lease (unless you agree otherwise).
Is my security deposit safe if there's a new landlord?
Yes. Your deposit is transferred to the new landlord, who is responsible for returning it (minus any lawful deductions) at the end of your tenancy.
Can showings or open houses happen without my permission?
No. You must receive at least 24 hours’ written notice before any entry, unless you agree to shorter notice.
Who can help if I think my rights are being ignored?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Program or local tenant advocacy organizations for support and formal dispute resolution.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

The sale of your rental does not end your lease.
Proper notice and use of official forms are required to end your tenancy.
Your key rights – including security of tenure and return of your deposit – are protected under Nova Scotia law.

Always stay informed and reach out for support early if ownership changes or you receive unexpected notices.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia) – Forms, information, and dispute resolution
Tenant support lines: 1-800-670-4357 (toll free in Nova Scotia)
Nova Scotia Legal Aid: www.nslegalaid.ca
Local tenant advocacy groups (e.g., ACORN Nova Scotia, Dalhousie Legal Aid Service)

Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act. Latest version: Read full legislation here.
Residential Tenancies Program, Service Nova Scotia: Official government information and contacts.
Notice to Quit Forms: Government of Nova Scotia form download and details.