Top 50 Questions: Special Tenancy Situations in Nova Scotia

Special Tenancy Situations Nova Scotia published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia
What is a "special tenancy situation" in Nova Scotia?
It refers to unique rental circumstances, like sublets, roommate changes, family violence, or special needs housing under Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Act.
Who handles tenancy disputes in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancy Program, part of Service Nova Scotia, manages tenancy issues. Learn more here.
What law protects tenants in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Act of Nova Scotia. Read it here.
Can I sublet my apartment in Nova Scotia?
Yes, but you need your landlord’s written consent. They can’t unreasonably refuse.
What form do I use to assign or sublet my unit?
Use Form C: Application to Assign or Sublet. Download here.
What happens if my landlord refuses my sublet request?
You may apply to the Residential Tenancy Program for review using Form J. See the form.
Can my landlord increase rent during a special tenancy situation?
No, unless the legal notice has been given and proper procedures followed, as for regular tenancies.
Can I end my lease early due to family violence?
Yes, you may file a notice and provide proof under the Residential Tenancies Act. Special protections apply.
Is there a form for early lease termination due to family violence?
Yes, use Form M: Application to Terminate Tenancy Due to Domestic Violence. Get Form M here.
How do I add or remove a roommate from my lease?
Get landlord approval in writing. Both parties should acknowledge the change and update the lease.
What if my roommate moves out unexpectedly?
You're still responsible for the full rent unless the lease is updated or the landlord agrees to changes.
Can a landlord end my tenancy if I get a new roommate?
Not unless the lease terms are violated or local laws are broken. Landlord consent is usually required.
What if the landlord refuses to let me add a spouse or child?
They can’t refuse unreasonably. Contact the Residential Tenancy Program for assistance if this occurs.
How do I request an accommodation due to disability?
Submit a written request to your landlord outlining your needs. They must accommodate unless it causes undue hardship.
What form do I use if I want to dispute a landlord’s decision?
Use Form J: Application to Director for a Hearing. Download here.
Can I break my lease due to health reasons?
In some cases, with supporting medical documentation and landlord agreement, or opt for subletting/assignment if appropriate.
What happens if the property is sold?
Your tenancy continues under the new owner. Notice is still required if the new owner wants to end your tenancy.
Can a landlord ask me to move out for renovations?
Only with proper written notice and only if substantial repairs make the unit unfit to live in during work.
What notice is needed if a landlord wants to end my lease for their own use?
They must give you at least three months’ written notice using Form E. View Form E.
Can I dispute a notice to end tenancy for landlord’s own use?
Yes, you can apply for a hearing using Form J within 15 days of getting the notice.
Are there special eviction rules for mobile homes?
Yes, unique rules apply under the Act. Check Part VII of the Residential Tenancies Act for details.
Can I get my deposit back if I leave early due to domestic violence?
If you follow proper procedures and submit required forms, you should get your security deposit back.
Who pays for cleaning or repairs when a roommate leaves?
Tenants are jointly responsible unless otherwise agreed in writing with the landlord.
What if my landlord won’t address accessibility needs?
You can file a human rights complaint or apply to the Residential Tenancy Program for help.
Can a fixed-term lease be ended early by the landlord?
Only with proper legal grounds and written notice; otherwise, it continues until the end date.
What is the process to dispute an eviction?
File Form J for a hearing within 15 days of receiving notice. See Form J.
Do special tenancy situations affect rent increases?
No, rent increase rules stay the same unless you sign a new agreement.
Can I stay if my spouse dies or leaves?
Yes, usually, as long as you were listed on the lease or have the landlord’s written consent.
Can I swap units with another tenant?
Only with landlord approval and a signed agreement updating both leases.
Do I need to notify the landlord if I’m away for a long time?
It's not legally required, but recommended for safety and transparency.
Can my landlord enter my unit during a special situation?
Only with proper notice unless it's an emergency, the same as regular tenancy rules.
What if I need to leave suddenly due to military deployment?
You may apply to end your lease early under special circumstances. Promptly notify your landlord in writing.
Is there a difference between “assignment” and “sublet”?
Yes. Assignment transfers your lease fully to someone else. Sublet means someone rents from you temporarily.
How can I end my month-to-month lease in a special situation?
Give written notice of 1 month before your next rent due date.
Can landlords charge extra fees for special situations?
No extra fees beyond what’s allowed in your lease or the Act.
What if I am a university student sharing a lease?
All tenants on the lease share legal responsibility; special student rules do not apply.
Can a landlord forbid pets due to a special situation?
No, unless the lease already has a no-pet clause, except for service animals, which must be accommodated.
What if my building is sold as a condo?
You have additional rights and notice requirements under the Act. Check with the Residential Tenancy Program.
Can I be evicted for bringing in family members?
Only if this breaches occupancy limits in your lease or local code.
How do I apply to dispute a security deposit issue?
Use Form J: Application for a Hearing. Get Form J.
If I move due to domestic violence, does my landlord have to keep it confidential?
Yes, by law, your information and reasons are kept confidential.
Can I refuse payment from a subtenant if my landlord objects?
Yes. If your landlord objects lawfully and in writing, do not sublet without approval.
What protections exist against discrimination in special situations?
The Nova Scotia Human Rights Act and Residential Tenancies Act both prohibit discrimination in housing.
Can I break my lease if I lose my job?
Not automatically. You need landlord consent, sublet, or meet special conditions such as domestic violence or health.
Who do I contact with questions about special tenancy situations?
Contact Service Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancy Program at 1-800-670-4357 or visit their website.
If I get married, does my spouse gain tenant rights?
Only if they are added to the lease or you notify the landlord of the change.
Do special situations change how eviction notices are served?
No, notice periods and forms required do not change for most special tenancies.

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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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