Top 50 Questions: Discrimination & Accessibility for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Discrimination & Accessibility Nova Scotia published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia
Who protects tenants from discrimination in Nova Scotia?
The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission protects tenants from discrimination under the Human Rights Act.
What is considered discrimination in rental housing?
Discrimination means treating you unfairly due to race, sex, disability, age, religion, family status, or other protected grounds.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because of my disability?
No, landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of your disability under the Human Rights Act.
Are service animals allowed in rental properties?
Yes, landlords must allow service animals for tenants with disabilities, even if there is a "no pets" policy.
What rental forms are used to file discrimination complaints?
Use the "Complaint Form" from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. Download it here.
Where can I get help with my tenant rights?
Contact the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program or the Human Rights Commission.
What law protects tenants against discrimination in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Act and the Human Rights Act both protect tenants.
What should I do if my landlord refuses to make my unit accessible?
You can ask for a reasonable accommodation, and if refused, file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
A change to policies, rules, or units to help you use and enjoy your home equal to others, unless it causes undue hardship for the landlord.
Can my landlord ask for proof of disability for an accommodation?
Yes, but only enough to confirm the need for accommodation—not details about your diagnosis.
What is undue hardship in housing?
Undue hardship is when accommodating your needs would cause major health, safety, or serious financial problems for the landlord.
Can my landlord charge extra for a service animal?
No, landlords cannot charge extra rent or fees for service animals.
What is the Human Rights Commission complaint process?
File a complaint using their form; the Commission will investigate and may try to resolve the issue or refer it for a hearing.
Can a landlord evict me because I asked for an accommodation?
No, retaliation for requesting an accommodation is not allowed and is illegal.
What if I’m denied housing because of my family status?
Denial based on family status (like children) is discrimination; you can file a Human Rights complaint.
Am I protected from discrimination because of my age?
Yes, age is a protected ground under the Human Rights Act in most situations.
Can a landlord make rules that impact only certain cultures or religions?
No, rules cannot unfairly target specific cultural or religious groups.
Are emotional support animals protected like service animals?
Emotional support animals may be accommodated, but laws are clearer for trained service animals. Decided case by case.
Can my landlord refuse me because I get government assistance?
Discrimination based on source of income may be reviewed by the Commission; contact them for guidance.
What happens after I file a human rights complaint?
The Commission reviews, investigates, and tries to resolve complaints; some cases go to a hearing.
Can a landlord restrict wheelchair access in common areas?
No, landlords must provide access unless doing so causes them undue hardship.
Am I allowed to install grab bars or ramps in my unit?
If needed for accessibility, you can request permission or have the landlord install them as a reasonable accommodation.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me due to my sexual orientation or gender identity?
No, this is prohibited under the Human Rights Act.
Do I need legal representation to file a human rights complaint?
No, you do not need a lawyer to file a complaint, though you may choose to get legal advice.
What is the role of the Residential Tenancies Program in discrimination cases?
The Program oversees tenancy disputes but refers discrimination cases to the Human Rights Commission.
Can a landlord ask about my medical history when I request accessibility changes?
They may ask for evidence of your need, but only the information required to understand your request, not detailed health records.
How do I prove discrimination?
Keep records, emails, and note details of interactions—these help demonstrate your case if needed.
Who do I contact for accessibility resources?
Contact Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission or local accessibility advocacy organizations.
How long does a human rights complaint take?
It varies, but can take several months or longer, depending on investigation complexity.
Will requesting accommodations affect my tenancy agreement?
No, landlords must not change or cancel your agreement because you seek an accommodation.
Are there time limits to file a human rights complaint?
Yes, you usually have 12 months from the incident to file with the Human Rights Commission.
Can a landlord advertise "adults only" apartments?
No, advertising units as "adults only" may be considered discrimination based on family status.
What happens if the landlord ignores my accommodation request?
You can file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission for failure to accommodate.
Is there a fee to file a human rights complaint?
No, filing a complaint with the Human Rights Commission is free.
Can discrimination take place after I move in?
Yes, discrimination can occur at any stage: application, living there, or ending the tenancy.
Can my landlord end my tenancy because I made a complaint?
No, this is considered retaliation and is not allowed by law.
Are parking spaces part of accessibility rights?
Yes, requesting accessible parking may be a reasonable accommodation.
Does the law cover private and public rental properties?
Yes, both private and public housing providers must follow the Human Rights Act.
What should I do if I face discrimination from another tenant?
Report it to your landlord and, if unresolved, contact the Human Rights Commission.
Can I request more time to move due to accessibility needs?
Yes, you can request a reasonable extension if you need more time due to a disability.
If I cannot use stairs, must the landlord provide a ground-floor unit?
The landlord must consider it as a reasonable accommodation if possible.
Can I modify the entryway for my wheelchair?
Request permission; landlords must consider reasonable changes unless it is too costly or causes hardship.
What if a landlord changes the locks and I need accessible keys?
Request keys that are accessible to you; this can be part of an accommodation.
Can I be denied housing for having children?
No, refusing to rent due to children is discrimination based on family status.
Are rent increases allowed if I ask for accessibility changes?
No, asking for accommodations is not a legal reason for a rent increase.
Can I get compensation if discrimination is proven?
Yes, the Human Rights Commission can order remedies like compensation for losses or distress.
What if I need documents in accessible formats?
Landlords should provide documents in large print or accessible formats upon request as a reasonable accommodation.
Are hearing or visual alarms required for tenant safety?
Yes, if requested for accessibility, landlords may be required to install them as accommodation.
Can a landlord question my language or accent during application?
No, this may be considered discrimination based on ethnic or national origin.
Who decides if something is accommodation or undue hardship?
The Human Rights Commission decides if there is discrimination or undue hardship after reviewing all evidence.
Can I get someone to support me during complaints?
Yes, you are allowed support persons or advocates during the complaint process.

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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 tenants everywhere.

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