Top 50 Questions: Post-Eviction Resources for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Post-Eviction Resources Nova Scotia published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia
What should I do immediately after being evicted?
Secure your belongings, seek temporary housing, and contact local support services for advice.
Can I appeal an eviction decision in Nova Scotia?
Yes, you may request a judicial review from the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia within 14 days of the Residential Tenancies decision.
Which tribunal handles tenancy issues in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Program manages tenancy disputes in Nova Scotia.
What law applies to post-eviction issues in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Act governs all residential tenancy matters in Nova Scotia.
Where can I find emergency housing after eviction?
Contact Nova Scotia emergency shelters for immediate assistance.
Can I recover my security deposit after eviction?
You may apply for its return if there are no damages or unpaid rent; use Form K from the Residential Tenancies office.
How do I apply to get my security deposit back?
Submit Form K: Application to Director for Return of Security Deposit.
What steps should I take if my landlord still has my belongings?
Contact the landlord to arrange pickup; if refused, seek help from Residential Tenancies or file Form J.
What form do I use to recover possessions from a former rental?
Use Form J: Application for an Order if the landlord denies access.
If I missed the eviction hearing, can I get another chance?
You can apply for a review in some cases; contact Residential Tenancies quickly for options.
Are there organizations offering legal help after eviction?
Yes, contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for free advice.
Can I apply for public or subsidized housing after eviction?
Yes, apply at your local housing authority; prior eviction may impact eligibility depending on reason.
How long does the landlord have to give me to remove my belongings?
Landlords must allow you 72 hours after eviction to collect your possessions.
Where do I report a landlord who won’t return my deposit?
File a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Program using Form K.
What if I can’t afford a place after eviction?
Access emergency shelters and speak with a housing support worker for resources and income assistance.
How do I get a copy of my eviction order?
Request a copy from the Residential Tenancies office that handled your original hearing.
Is eviction information kept in a public record in Nova Scotia?
No, individual eviction records are not generally public but may appear in court databases if appealed.
What happens to my mail after an eviction?
Redirect your mail with Canada Post or contact your landlord for ongoing deliveries.
Can an eviction impact my credit score?
Evictions are not directly reported to credit bureaus, but related unpaid debts may affect your score.
How can I prove I was unfairly evicted in Nova Scotia?
Gather all documents, witness statements, and file for a judicial review if you believe the process was unjust.
What notice should I receive before eviction in Nova Scotia?
Landlords must serve an official Notice to Quit, usually 15 days for unpaid rent, longer for others.
Can I sue my landlord for wrongful eviction?
Yes, you may take legal action if your eviction did not follow the Residential Tenancies Act.
What government services help with finding new housing?
Contact Housing Nova Scotia for rental support and placement.
Can I rent again after being evicted?
Yes, unless a landlord sets screening criteria or you owe debts to previous landlords.
Do I have to pay rent after eviction?
You are responsible until the end of your tenancy or until a new tenant moves in, as specified by the eviction order.
How do I contact the Residential Tenancies office?
Call 1-800-670-4357 or visit their website.
What is the deadline to collect my items after eviction?
You have 72 hours to collect possessions once an eviction is enforced.
Can my landlord throw out my belongings after eviction?
Only after 72 hours, unless items clearly have no value or are unsanitary.
What if I’m away when my eviction happens?
Contact the landlord or Residential Tenancies as soon as possible to retrieve your items within 72 hours.
Is help available for tenants with children after eviction?
Yes, family shelters and social services provide special assistance to tenants with children.
Who can help with moving or storage after eviction?
Some social programs and charities offer moving or storage help; ask your local housing office.
Can I get my last month’s rent back if I was evicted?
Generally, prepaid rent is applied to the last month you lived in the unit, not refunded after eviction.
Where can I file a complaint about my eviction?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Program for grievances.
How do I find affordable rentals after eviction?
Use Housing Nova Scotia and local rental listings.
Can I be evicted in winter in Nova Scotia?
Yes, evictions can legally occur year-round, including winter.
Does an eviction affect my eligibility for income assistance?
No, but experiencing eviction may qualify you for emergency assistance; contact Nova Scotia Department of Community Services.
Do I still owe past rent after eviction?
Yes, outstanding rent remains your responsibility unless the landlord forgives the debt or a tribunal decides otherwise.
How do I appeal if I disagree with the Residential Tenancies decision?
Apply for judicial review to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia within 14 days.
Can I get help paying for a new place?
You may qualify for assistance from social services or emergency rent supplement programs.
Is there a deadline for applying to get my deposit back?
Yes, apply within one year of the end of your tenancy using Form K.
What help is there for people with disabilities after eviction?
Contact Nova Scotia Accessible Housing or community support agencies for special assistance.
Can a landlord keep my belongings if I owe rent?
No, a landlord cannot keep your items as payment for rent; legal process must be followed.
How can I protect myself from future evictions?
Keep records, communicate in writing, and learn your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Are any moving costs covered by government assistance?
Sometimes, through emergency social assistance or community programs in special circumstances.
Will my eviction be reported to future landlords?
It depends; landlords may ask for references or find out if you owe prior rent.
Can I get access to my former rental after eviction?
You have a right to collect belongings within 72 hours; otherwise, you need landlord consent or a tribunal order.
What information should I collect after eviction?
Keep a copy of the eviction order, lease, correspondence, and receipts.
Is there a government form for filing post-eviction complaints?
Yes, use Form J to apply for orders after tenancy ends.

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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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