What Nova Scotia Tenants Can Do If Repairs Are Poorly Done

If you're a tenant in Nova Scotia and repairs have been handled poorly in your rental, you're not alone. Inadequate or incomplete repairs can impact your comfort, safety, and legal rights as a tenant. Understanding what steps to take and how to address the problem with your landlord can make all the difference in quickly resolving issues related to maintenance and repairs.

Your Rights for Repairs in Nova Scotia

Tenants in Nova Scotia have the right to live in a rental home that meets health, safety, and property standards. Landlords are legally responsible for maintaining the property in a state of repair that complies with housing, safety, and building codes.

• Landlords must complete repairs promptly and ensure repairs are done properly.
• Poorly done repairs—such as leaky plumbing or faulty electrical work—should be addressed as soon as possible.
• Tenants must continue to pay rent even if repairs are incomplete or unsatisfactory.

Details about both landlord and tenant obligations can be found in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Common Examples of Poor Repairs

Poor repairs can vary widely, but often include:

• Improper patch jobs that don’t fix water leaks
• Poor electrical work leading to ongoing outages
• Broken appliances that are never properly replaced
• Temporary solutions for structural or safety issues

Health and Safety Concerns

If a poorly done repair creates a safety hazard—such as mold from ongoing leaks or exposed wiring—it can pose a risk to your health. These concerns must be dealt with immediately for your safety.

For a deep dive into potential safety issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Steps to Take When Repairs Are Done Poorly

When you notice a repair that is done improperly, you should:

• Document the problem: Take dated photos or videos of the unsatisfactory repair.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Email, text message, or send a letter clearly describing the issue and requesting proper repairs.
• Allow a reasonable time to fix: The time depends on the urgency and impact of the problem. For health and safety risks, address immediately.

Filing a Complaint with the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program

If your landlord does not fix the problem or continues to provide substandard repairs, you can apply to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program—the official tribunal handling rental disputes in the province.

Relevant Form: Application to Director (Form J)

• Form Name/Number: Application to Director (Form J)
• Purpose: To have the Director of Residential Tenancies order your landlord to properly complete repairs, compensate you for losses, or resolve other rental disputes.
• When to Use: If reasonable attempts to resolve the repair problem directly have failed.
• Where to Find: Official Application to Director (Form J)
• Example: You told your landlord three weeks ago about a leaking roof, and the contractor’s repair didn’t fix the leak. You notified your landlord again, but it’s still leaking. You would use Form J to ask the tribunal for a formal resolution.

Summary of Repair Complaint Process

Before filing a complaint, make sure to:

• Gather evidence (photos, messages, receipts)
• Communicate your concern in writing at least once
• Wait a reasonable period for the landlord’s response

Your Responsibilities During a Repair Dispute

While repairs are being disputed or unsatisfactorily completed:

• Continue to pay rent on time
• Do not withhold rent as this can put you at risk of eviction
• Maintain all other responsibilities as outlined in your lease and the law

Learn more in our in-depth guide: Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Legislation Protecting Your Rights

Your rights and your landlord’s obligations are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)^[1].

Tenant Resources and Support

• For general information on tenant protections in the province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Poorly Done Repairs in Nova Scotia Rentals

1. Do I have to keep paying rent if repairs are not fixed properly?
   Yes, you must continue paying rent, even if the repairs are done poorly. Not paying rent can risk eviction and weaken your complaint.
   
2. Can I hire my own contractor and deduct the cost from rent?
   Generally, you should not arrange repairs yourself and deduct the cost unless you have written permission from your landlord or a tribunal order permitting this.
   
3. What if the repair issue is urgent and affects safety?
   For health or safety risks, notify your landlord immediately in writing and file a complaint with the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program if the issue is not addressed promptly.
   
4. How long should I wait for the landlord to fix a poorly done repair?
   There is no exact timeframe, but it should be based on the urgency and seriousness of the problem. For urgent repairs, expect prompt action.
   

Key Takeaways

• Document and communicate any poorly done repairs to your landlord in writing as soon as possible
• File a complaint using the Application to Director (Form J) if your landlord does not resolve the issue
• Stay informed about your rights and always pay your rent while repairs are pending

Act quickly, keep thorough records, and reach out to the official tribunal if the issue isn’t resolved.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program – Official government service for tenant-landlord disputes
• Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) – Provincial legislation on rental housing
• Nova Scotia Tenants' Rights Advocacy – Information and guidance for tenants
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia

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1. Read the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) here
2. Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program official site
3. Nova Scotia Application to Director (Form J)

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