Living in a multi-unit rental in Nova Scotia means sharing hallways, stairs, lobbies and outdoor spaces with neighbours. Tenants often wonder who must keep those common areas clean, safe and repaired, and what steps to take when something is broken or hazardous. This guide explains the typical responsibilities of landlords, property managers and tenants under Nova Scotia tenancy rules, shows when you can ask for repairs or file an application, and gives practical steps for documenting problems and getting timely action. It uses plain language for tenants and includes links to official forms and the tribunal so you know where to go if issues are not resolved.
Who is responsible for common areas?
Generally, the landlord or property owner is responsible for maintaining common areas so they are safe and habitable. That includes routine cleaning, snow and ice removal, lighting in hallways, elevator service where applicable, and major repairs to structural elements and building systems. Tenants are expected to keep shared spaces they use personally tidy and to avoid causing damage. These responsibilities are set out under Nova Scotia tenancy rules and the Residential Tenancies Act.[1] If an issue isn't fixed after a reasonable request, tenants may apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for help.[2]
Typical landlord responsibilities
- Repair and maintain structural elements, roofs, staircases, and elevators so they remain safe and functional.
- Keep building systems working, including heating, plumbing and electrical systems for common areas.
- Provide adequate lighting, clear snow and ice, and keep entrances, hallways and shared outdoor areas safe.
- Maintain records of repairs and inspections to show reasonable upkeep and response to tenant reports.
Typical tenant responsibilities
- Keep personal items out of common hallways and stairwells to avoid hazards and code violations.
- Report maintenance problems promptly in writing and allow reasonable access for repairs.
- Follow building rules about garbage, recycling and shared facilities to protect common-area condition.
For more detail on the statutory duties of each party and practical tips for documenting issues, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and the provincial guidance linked below. If your concern is about routine unit repairs or plumbing that affects common systems, the Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities page can help you decide who should act first.
If you are searching for rentals or considering a move while you resolve building issues, consider a national listings tool to compare options and neighbourhoods; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help with that search.
How to raise a common-area maintenance problem
- Document the problem with photos, dates and a short description (what is broken, where it is, and any safety risk).
- Notify the landlord or property manager in writing and keep a copy of the message (email or letter) and delivery proof.
- Allow reasonable access for inspections and repairs, and get a timeline for completion from the landlord.
- If the issue is not fixed within a reasonable time, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Program or the tribunal as advised in the provincial guidance.
FAQ
- Who fixes snow and ice on shared walkways?
- The landlord or property owner is typically responsible for clearing snow and ice in shared entrances and pathways; report hazards promptly in writing so there is a record.
- Can a landlord charge tenants for common-area repairs?
- Landlords cannot generally charge individual tenants for normal building repairs; any charges must be set out in the tenancy agreement and follow provincial rules.
- What if the landlord won’t fix a safety hazard?
- Document the hazard, notify the landlord in writing, and if not addressed, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for dispute resolution and directions.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos, timestamps and a short written account of the risk or damage.
- Send a written notice to the landlord requesting repair and keep proof of delivery.
- Cooperate with reasonable access for inspections and repairs while keeping copies of all communications.
- If unresolved, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Program including your documentation and request for an order.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information - Government of Nova Scotia
- Residential Tenancies Act - Nova Scotia Legislature
- Official forms for tenancy disputes and notices - Service Nova Scotia
