Nova Scotia Tenant Snow Removal and Lawn Care Rules

Understanding responsibility for snow removal and lawn care in Nova Scotia rentals is essential for tenant safety and comfort, especially given the province’s seasonal weather. Knowing what the law says, and what your lease may require, helps prevent disputes and ensures your home environment remains healthy and accessible.

Who Is Responsible for Snow Removal and Lawn Care?

In Nova Scotia, responsibilities for snow removal (such as clearing driveways and walkways) and lawn care often depend on what is written in your rental agreement. If the lease is silent or unclear, the law provides guidance to protect tenants and landlords.

What the Law Says

The main law for rental housing in Nova Scotia is the Residential Tenancies Act (R.S., c. 401, s. 1)^[1]. This Act requires landlords to keep the property healthy and safe. Snow and ice on walkways, steps, and driveways can be a health and safety risk. In general, if your lease does not specify otherwise, the landlord is responsible for maintaining exterior areas in a safe condition, including:

• Clearing snow and ice from main walkways, entrances, and driveways
• Keeping lawns reasonably maintained (mowing, basic upkeep)

However, a landlord can pass responsibility to the tenant if it is clearly stated in writing in the rental agreement. It’s important for tenants to review and understand these terms before signing.

Tip: Always keep a copy of your signed lease. If you’re unsure who is responsible, check your rental agreement and clarify with your landlord in writing.

Why Snow Removal and Lawn Care Are Important

Proper maintenance impacts more than appearance. It directly affects your safety and ability to enter or leave your rental. Slip-and-fall injuries on icy steps or walkways can create legal and insurance issues for you and the landlord. The Residential Tenancies Act ensures this duty cannot be ignored.

For more on related issues concerning safe and healthy rental conditions, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Clarifying Responsibilities in Your Lease

Your rental agreement’s terms are key. Here’s what tenants should look for:

• Lease is silent: Landlord usually responsible, especially for common areas.
• Lease states tenant is responsible: Tenant must handle these tasks, but only if clearly described in writing.
• Different areas: Sometimes, tenants may be responsible for portions (like a private backyard), while landlords still handle common spaces.

If you have concerns about unclear responsibilities, the Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services department administers the rules. You can ask the Residential Tenancies Program for clarification or dispute resolution if conflicts arise.

Forms and Steps for Tenants

Tenants may need to use forms if there’s a dispute about maintenance duties or if conditions in the rental pose a health or safety risk:

• Form K – Application to Director: Used to make an official request for a decision by the Director of Residential Tenancies (for any issue not resolved between landlord and tenant). For instance, if you believe the landlord is failing to maintain safe walkways in winter, you can apply using this form.
  Download Form K – Application to Director (PDF)

Process: Fill out the form with details of your concern, attach evidence (such as photos or written requests to your landlord), and submit it to the nearest Access Nova Scotia office. You can find office locations on the official Residential Tenancies Program page.

Key Responsibilities for Tenants and Landlords

• Landlords are generally responsible for safety-related maintenance unless otherwise agreed in writing.
• Tenants must not neglect maintenance responsibilities that are clearly stated in their lease.
• Both parties should communicate responsibilities clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

You can learn more about the shared obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Practical Tips for Tenants

• Review your lease carefully before signing.
• Document the condition of the property at move-in (take photos of walkways and lawns).
• Communicate in writing with your landlord about any maintenance concerns.
• Use the Residential Tenancies Program if problems can’t be resolved directly.

For more help with getting settled in a new place, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

If you’re searching for rentals with clear maintenance terms, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

To better understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in this province, visit our guide: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

FAQ: Nova Scotia Snow Removal and Lawn Care for Tenants

1. Can my landlord make me do snow removal or lawn care?
   Only if your lease specifically and clearly states that you’re responsible. Otherwise, these duties are generally the landlord’s responsibility.
2. What should I do if my landlord isn’t clearing snow from the walkway?
   First, send a written request reminding them. If they don’t take action, document the issue and apply to the Residential Tenancies Program using Form K.
3. Am I liable if someone slips and falls on snow I was supposed to clear?
   If your lease places this responsibility on you, you could be liable. Always clarify and keep written records. Speak to a legal professional for advice in these situations.
4. What if my lease doesn’t mention outdoor maintenance at all?
   The landlord is usually responsible for exterior maintenance related to health and safety when the lease is silent.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program: Guidance on rental rights, forms, and dispute resolution
• Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia: Free information and referrals for tenants
• Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – official text
• Local tenant support groups may provide additional help; check community resources in your area

---

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (R.S., c. 401, s. 1): Nova Scotia official legislation (PDF)
2. Residential Tenancies Program, Service Nova Scotia: Residential Tenancies official resources

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy