What can I do if my landlord ignores my repair requests?

Document your requests in writing. If your landlord remains unresponsive, file Form J with the Residential Tenancies Program to seek an official order.

Can I withhold rent if the landlord refuses repairs?

No. Only withhold rent if you have permission from the Residential Tenancies Program or court, or you could risk eviction.

How do I get help with an unresponsive landlord in Nova Scotia?

Fill out and submit Form J to the Residential Tenancies Program, including proof of your requests and details of the issue.

What if the repair issue is an emergency?

Contact municipal inspectors or bylaw for emergencies, and alert the Residential Tenancies Program as soon as possible.

What if my landlord still refuses to act after an order is given?

You can ask for enforcement assistance through the Residential Tenancies Program or seek help from Small Claims Court.

Unresponsive Landlords: Tenant Remedies in Nova Scotia

Special Tenancy Situations Nova Scotia published: June 20, 2025

If your landlord in Nova Scotia is ignoring repair requests, not responding to important issues, or failing to fulfil legal responsibilities, you are not powerless. Nova Scotia’s residential tenancy laws provide strong remedies for tenants facing an unresponsive landlord. This article outlines your rights, practical steps to take, official forms you may need, and how to get help.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (the Act). The Act requires landlords to keep rental units safe, healthy, and in good repair. If your landlord is not communicating or not addressing problems in your unit, you may have the right to take action through the official residential tenancy process.

For a summary of tenant and landlord legal duties in this province, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia page.

Common Landlord Responsibilities in Nova Scotia

Maintaining the property in a state of good repair
Ensuring heating, plumbing, electrical, and other vital services are working
Addressing health and safety concerns such as mould, leaks, or pests
Responding to written requests for maintenance or urgent repairs

If your landlord ignores these duties, you can take steps to protect yourself and your home.

What to Do When Your Landlord Is Unresponsive

1. Document Your Requests

Always make requests for repairs or support in writing (by email, letter, or text). Keep copies and note the date and nature of the issue.

2. Try a Second Written Request

If your first message is ignored, send a polite follow-up stating the problem and asking for a response by a specific date. Make clear that you are keeping a record in case further steps are required.

3. Addressing Health and Safety Issues

If the problem relates to health or safety (e.g., broken heating, unsafe wiring, severe leaks, pests), you may need faster action.

Learn more about safe housing concerns in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

4. Requesting Repairs Through the Residential Tenancies Program

If written requests haven’t worked, tenants can apply to Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Program (the province’s official tenancy tribunal) for help.

How to Apply: Fill out and submit Form J: 'Application to Director' for an order to force the landlord to complete repairs or enter the property if necessary (Form J - Application to Director).
Practical Example: If your heat isn’t working and the landlord doesn’t respond after two requests, complete Form J, attach your written requests, and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Program.
Where to submit: At your local Access Nova Scotia centre or through the official online service.

5. Emergency Situations

For emergencies (like loss of heat in winter, water, or major safety issues), contact municipal services (such as bylaw or building inspections) and inform the Residential Tenancies Program as soon as possible. In extreme cases, Nova Scotia's laws may allow you to make urgent repairs and deduct reasonable costs from your rent—but only with written consent or a formal order.

If you face health or safety threats, get evidence (photos, dates, witness statements) and seek help fast. Tenants must never withhold rent unless authorized by a tribunal order.

Key Official Forms for Tenants

Form J: Application to Director – Used to ask for an order for repairs, compensation, or landlord compliance. Access Form J here.
Form K: Notice to Quit – Applies if you need to end your lease due to unaddressed repair issues (seek legal advice first). Find Form K here.

How the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program Can Help

Your main resource for resolving disputes with unresponsive landlords is the Residential Tenancies Program. They handle tenant applications, complaints, and enforce orders under the Residential Tenancies Act.¹

Review your full rights once you sign a tenancy contract in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

FAQ: Tenant Remedies for Unresponsive Landlords in Nova Scotia

What can I do if my landlord ignores my repair requests?
Document all requests in writing. If your landlord does not respond after reasonable time, file Form J with the Residential Tenancies Program for an order requiring repairs.
Can I stop paying rent if the landlord refuses to fix problems?
No, you must continue paying rent. Only stop or withhold rent with express permission from a tribunal or court order to avoid possible eviction.
How do I apply for help with an unresponsive landlord?
Complete Form J and submit it with supporting evidence to your local Access Nova Scotia or online through the Residential Tenancies Program.
Are there faster options if the issue is a health or safety hazard?
In urgent situations (such as no heat or unsafe conditions), contact local municipal inspectors and alert the Residential Tenancies Program immediately.
What if the landlord still doesn’t comply after an order?
If a landlord ignores a tribunal order, you may request enforcement through the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program or seek help from the local Small Claims Court.

Key Takeaways

Document all issues and requests in writing for your records
Use official forms and follow tribunal procedures for unresponsive landlords
Never withhold rent unless legally authorized

Quick action and accurate documentation protect your home and tenancy rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia): Official dispute resolution, application forms, and advice for tenants
Access Nova Scotia: Landlord and Tenancy – Provincial contact centres and public info
Dalhousie Legal Aid Service: Free tenant advocacy and legal advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid: Free or low-cost legal support for eligible tenants