Top 50 Questions: Mental Health & Tenancy in Nova Scotia

Mental Health & Tenancy Nova Scotia published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia
What rights do tenants have if experiencing mental health issues in Nova Scotia?
Tenants have the same rights as all renters. Mental health is not a lawful reason for eviction or discrimination.
Can my landlord evict me because of my mental health?
No, landlords cannot evict you due to your mental health. All evictions must follow the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act.
Where can I find official tenant forms for mental health-related issues?
You can find all official forms on the Residential Tenancies Program website.
What legislation protects me as a tenant in Nova Scotia?
You are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), Nova Scotia. See the full Act here.
Who handles residential tenancy disputes in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancy Program (official site) handles all tenant-landlord disputes.
Can a landlord ask about my mental health or diagnosis?
No, landlords cannot ask about your medical or mental health history. This is private information.
Can I request a reasonable accommodation for my mental health?
Yes, you can request accommodations. Landlords must consider requests that are reasonable and within their ability to provide.
What is a reasonable accommodation in tenancy?
A reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, or services to help tenants with mental health needs—if it doesn't cause hardship to the landlord.
How do I formally request a reasonable accommodation?
Make your request in writing and explain your needs. You may need to provide a note from a healthcare provider but not your diagnosis.
If I can't pay rent due to a mental health crisis, what are my options?
Speak with your landlord and seek help early. Apply for government or community supports if needed. Evictions for non-payment can proceed regardless of health unless arrangements are made.
Can I delay or stop an eviction because of my mental health?
Mental health alone does not stop an eviction. However, you may explain your situation to the Residential Tenancy Officer and provide supporting documents during a hearing.
What if my landlord refuses my accommodation request?
If refused, contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission (details here) for assistance.
Are there forms related to terminating a lease due to mental health?
There’s no specific form for mental health, but you can use Form C—Notice to Quit or Form C when ending a tenancy.
How do I fill out Form C to end my lease?
State your intent to end the tenancy and the reason. Give required notice (usually 1 month). See Form C.
Can my landlord enter my unit if I am away for mental health care?
Landlords can only enter with proper notice (at least 24 hours), unless it's an emergency. Mental health is not an exception.
Do I need to give my landlord medical documents for an accommodation?
You may need a letter from a healthcare provider stating you need accommodation, but not your diagnosis.
Can my landlord share my mental health information with others?
No, landlords must keep your private information confidential, including anything you disclose.
Am I protected if my mental health causes noise or disturbances?
You must follow rules about noise. If disturbances are due to your disability, reasonable accommodation must be considered, but repeated issues may result in eviction.
What support organizations help tenants with mental health in Nova Scotia?
Contact NS Mental Health Foundation, CMHA Nova Scotia, or peer support groups for help.
Can my roommate be evicted due to my mental health?
No, your mental health does not affect your roommate’s tenancy unless they break tenancy rules themselves.
What is Form J—Application to the Director, and when is it used?
Form J allows you to ask the Residential Tenancy Officer to resolve disputes (e.g., about rights or accommodation). See Form J.
What if a neighbour harasses me about my mental health?
Immediately inform your landlord in writing. If problems persist, apply for help through Form J.
Can I ask for a transfer to a different unit for mental health reasons?
You may ask, but the landlord is not legally required to transfer you unless accommodation is reasonable and units are available.
If hospitalized, can my landlord change the locks?
No, landlords cannot change locks or deny access unless you are evicted through the legal process.
What happens if mental health affects my ability to attend an eviction hearing?
You can request to reschedule by contacting the Tenancy Officer before the hearing. Provide any necessary documentation.
How do I get legal advice for a mental health tenancy issue?
Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for free or low-cost help with tenancy and accommodation matters.
Can my landlord end my tenancy on short notice if I am hospitalized?
Only if they follow proper eviction procedures through the Residential Tenancy Program. Hospitalization alone is not a valid reason.
What do I do if I'm unable to clean properly due to mental health?
Speak with your landlord about your challenges. Ask for reasonable accommodation. Seek community supports if needed.
Is hoarding due to mental health grounds for eviction?
If it causes safety or health risks, eviction is possible. Reasonable efforts should be made for accommodation first.
Can I end my lease early for medical reasons, including mental health?
Yes, you may end your lease by giving proper notice and using Form C.
What if my mental health-related behaviour is used against me in a tenancy dispute?
Provide medical documentation and explain your situation at the hearing. The Tenancy Officer must consider reasonable accommodation.
Can I have a support animal for my mental health?
Yes, with medical documentation, you may have a support animal even if pets are not usually allowed, unless it poses an undue hardship.
Does my landlord have to allow service animals or support animals?
Yes, service animals must be accommodated unless it creates serious problems for others or the property.
What is the role of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission in tenancy?
They investigate discrimination, including failure to accommodate mental health needs. Learn more here.
Can my landlord increase rent if I request accommodation?
No, rent cannot be increased as a penalty for requesting accommodation. Any increases must follow provincial rules.
What support is available if mental health issues cause missed rent?
Contact Nova Scotia Department of Community Services for emergency housing and rent support options.
If I'm unsafe due to harassment or threats, what can I do?
Report to the police if you feel threatened. Inform your landlord in writing and seek help from tenancy services.
Can I bring a friend or support worker to a tenancy hearing?
Yes, you can bring someone to support you, but tell the Tenancy Officer ahead of time if possible.
What if my mental health condition is temporary?
You are still entitled to protection and reasonable accommodation for the period you are affected.
Are my mental health support needs considered disabilities?
Yes, mental health conditions are recognized as disabilities under Nova Scotia human rights law.
Where can I access the Residential Tenancies Act?
View the full Act online: Residential Tenancies Act.
What if my landlord threatens to evict me for mental health reasons?
This is not allowed. Contact the Residential Tenancy Program if you receive such threats.
Can I be held responsible for accidental damage related to my condition?
Yes, tenants are responsible for damages, but the landlord must consider accommodation and not discriminate.
How do I file a complaint about discrimination by my landlord?
File with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.
Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease because of my mental health?
No, a landlord cannot refuse renewal solely for mental health reasons. Lease renewals must follow the law.
Is there help for tenants facing homelessness due to mental health in Nova Scotia?
Yes, contact the Nova Scotia Housing Support for resources and emergency shelters.
Can I request a payment plan if my mental health impacts income?
Yes, discuss payment plans with your landlord. Landlords are not required to accept, but many will if you communicate early.
How long does it take to resolve a tenancy dispute in Nova Scotia?
Most hearings are held within a few weeks to months, but timelines vary.
What happens if my landlord retaliates after requesting accommodation?
Retaliation is not allowed. Document everything and consider filing a complaint with the Tenancy Program or Human Rights Commission.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord discriminates due to mental health?
No, always pay rent. Address discrimination through complaints and hearings, not by withholding rent.

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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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