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Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Tenant Rights Guide

Everything renters and landlords need to know about deposits, rent increases, entry rules, repairs, and the eviction process under Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Act.

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Nova Scotia Rental Law at a Glance

Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Act governs almost every residential tenancy in the province, from Halifax apartments to Cape Breton rentals. It sets rules for security deposits (capped at half a month's rent), rent increase notice (a full four months and a 5% annual cap until December 31, 2027), landlord entry (24 hours' written notice minimum), and how a tenancy can be ended.

Disputes are resolved by the Residential Tenancies Program and its Director of Residential Tenancies, not the courts, in the first instance. Either side can appeal a Director's order to the Small Claims Court.

Guides by Topic

Money & Deposits

Security deposits and rent increases

Security Deposits
Limits, holding & refunds
Rent Increases
Notice periods & rules
Utilities
Who pays for what

Starting a Tenancy

Leases and move-in documentation

Lease Agreements
What your lease must include
Move-In Condition Reports
Protecting your deposit

During Your Tenancy

Entry rules and repairs

Landlord Entry Rules
24-hour notice requirements
Repairs & Maintenance
Your landlord's duty to repair

Ending a Tenancy

Notice periods and lease breaks

Notice to End a Tenancy
Notice periods for tenants & landlords
Breaking a Lease & Subletting
Leaving early, subletting & assignment

Resolving Disputes

Eviction process and complaints

The Eviction Process
Director's orders & appeals
Filing a Complaint
How to apply to the Residential Tenancies Program

Frequently Asked Questions

What law governs tenancies in Nova Scotia?
The Residential Tenancies Act, administered by the Residential Tenancies Program and the Director of Residential Tenancies.
How much notice does my landlord need to raise my rent?
At least four months' written notice (eight weeks for a week-to-week tenancy). Rent can only go up once every 12 months, and increases on existing tenancies are capped at 5% a year until December 31, 2027.
How much is a security deposit in Nova Scotia?
No more than half a month's rent, returned with interest within 10 days of move-out, or the landlord files a claim with the Director within those 10 days.
Can my landlord evict me without going through the Residential Tenancies Program?
No. Self-help eviction, such as changing locks, removing belongings, or cutting utilities, is illegal. Every eviction requires a Director's order.

Official Resources

Residential Tenancies ProgramResidential Tenancies Act (Full Text)

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