Transferring Between Subsidized Units in Nova Scotia: Tenant Guide

Transferring between subsidized housing units in Nova Scotia is a common need for tenants whose family situations, employment, or accessibility needs have changed. Navigating this process can seem overwhelming, but understanding the steps and your rights will make it much easier. This guide breaks down everything Nova Scotia tenants need to know, from eligibility to application, so you can access the best housing for your situation.

Understanding Subsidized Housing Transfers in Nova Scotia

Subsidized housing in Nova Scotia is primarily managed by regional housing authorities under the Nova Scotia Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Tenants living in these units may seek a transfer to a different subsidized unit if their needs change — for example, due to changes in household size, health reasons, or location of work or school. Transfer requests are not automatic: there is a defined process with eligibility requirements, application steps, and waitlists.

Reasons Tenants May Request a Transfer

• Overcrowding or under-utilization of the current unit (household size change)
• Medical or accessibility needs that the current unit does not meet
• Safety concerns, including harassment or domestic violence
• Change in employment or education location
• Desire to move closer to family or community support

Whatever the reason, noting it clearly on your transfer application will help the housing authority assess your case.

Who Manages Subsidized Unit Transfers?

Transfers between subsidized units in Nova Scotia are overseen by your regional housing authority. Tenants should contact their specific authority for forms, status updates, and information about the application process.

The Residential Tenancies Program (official website) is the provincial body responsible for tenancy matters, including moving in, ending agreements, and resolving disputes. The main legislation governing these rights is the Residential Tenancies Act of Nova Scotia^[1].

Eligibility Criteria for Transfers

To qualify for a transfer, you usually need to:

• Be a current tenant in good standing (no significant arrears or unresolved rule violations)
• Provide a genuine and documentable reason for the move
• Agree to complete any required forms and, in some cases, provide supporting documentation (e.g., medical letters)

Eligibility is assessed by your housing authority and may differ slightly between regions — contact them for details.

How to Apply for a Transfer

The process requires several important steps to ensure your transfer request is reviewed properly.

Step 1: Contact Your Housing Authority

Notify your property manager or housing authority office that you wish to request a transfer. They will provide you with the appropriate transfer request form and explain the process specific to your region.

Step 2: Complete the Tenant Transfer Request Form

• Form name: Tenant Request For Internal Transfer (no standard provincial form number; local authorities may use slightly different versions)
• Where to get it: Contact your local housing authority office or download from their website
• When to use it: When you are a current tenant in subsidized housing and need to move to another subsidized unit for a valid reason.
• Example: If your family has grown and your current two-bedroom unit no longer fits your needs, use this form to request a larger unit.

Step 3: Submit Documentation

Along with your application, you may need to provide:

• Medical notes (if transferring for health/accessibility reasons)
• Proof of employment/school relocation
• Detailed written explanation of your need to transfer

Submit these documents to your regional housing office in-person, by mail, or via email (where permitted).

Step 4: Wait for Assessment and Priority Review

The housing authority will assess your application and supporting documents. Transfers are generally prioritized as follows:

• Urgent safety, health, or accessibility needs
• Over- or under-housed tenants (as per occupancy standards)
• Other considerations, such as proximity to school or work

Priority cases may be moved up the waitlist. All transfers depend on unit availability in your desired area and building.

Step 5: Accepting a New Unit

If your transfer is approved and a suitable unit is available, you will be offered accommodation. You must formally accept, sign a new lease agreement, and coordinate a move-in date.

Be sure to complete a unit inspection checklist with your housing manager before moving in. For guidance on this process, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

If you have concerns about ongoing maintenance, repairs, or the condition of your unit during the move, review Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for more details about your rights.

Important Reminders for Tenants

• Your place on the transfer waitlist is affected by the urgency of your request and the availability of units.
• If you have outstanding rent or unresolved rule violations, resolve these before requesting a transfer to avoid processing delays.
• Transferring does not mean your rental subsidy will change — your rent is recalculated based on your income and the new unit size.

If you are preparing for a move, check Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for practical guidance on making the transition easier.

Related Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia

For a deeper understanding of tenant and landlord responsibilities, eviction rules, and rental legislation, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia. You can also find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you wish to compare available housing options.

FAQs on Transferring Between Subsidized Units in Nova Scotia

1. Can I transfer to a different subsidized unit in another city?
   Yes, but your transfer request will be subject to unit availability and local priorities in your new city. You must submit your transfer application to your current housing authority and indicate your preferred area.
2. How long does it take for a transfer request to be processed?
   Processing times vary greatly depending on your reason for transfer and unit availability. Urgent health or safety cases are prioritized but may still face wait periods.
3. Does my rent change if I transfer to a new subsidized unit?
   Your rent is recalculated based on the new unit and your verified household income, following subsidy rules.
4. What if my transfer is denied?
   If your request is denied, you can ask for a review or appeal. Contact your housing authority for appeal instructions and support.
5. Do I have to pay a new deposit when I transfer?
   You may have to pay a new security deposit for the new unit; discuss this with your housing authority to confirm your obligations.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Transferring between subsidized units in Nova Scotia involves a structured application and review process managed by your local housing authority.
• Tenants must be in good standing and provide relevant documentation to support their transfer request.
• All transfer decisions and timelines are subject to waitlists, priority status, and housing availability — be proactive and keep your information up-to-date.

Review the relevant rules and seek assistance if you are unsure about any steps.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Housing Authorities – Find contacts for transfer forms and questions
• Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia) – Tribunal for disputes and tenant support
• Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia (LISNS) – Guidance for tenants on rights and appeals
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
2. Nova Scotia Housing Programs and Authority Contacts
3. Residential Tenancies Program – Government of Nova Scotia

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