Landlord & Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia (2026)
Rent increases, eviction notices, security deposits, and dispute resolution — everything landlords and tenants need to know in Nova Scotia.
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Eviction notice, lease termination letter, notice of rent increase, and condition report checklist — ready to use.
Where to File a Dispute in Nova Scotia
Residential Tenancies Program (RTP)
https://beta.novascotia.ca/programs-and-services/residential-tenancies-programFiling fee: $31.35 for tenant or landlord applications
Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act
Rent Increases in Nova Scotia
Rent increases are limited
Rent increases capped at 5% for existing tenants as of 2025.
Current guideline: 5% cap for 2025
Notice required for a rent increase: 4 months' written notice before effective date
Eviction & Notice to End Tenancy
Month-to-month tenancy
One full rental period's notice
Fixed-term tenancy
3 months' notice by landlord before end date; 1 month by tenant
Important forms & details
Non-payment: 15 days' notice.
Landlord entry: 24 hours' written notice; no notice for emergency
Deposits in Nova Scotia
Security Deposit
Max: Half one month's rent
Security deposit up to half a month's rent. Must be returned or accounted for within 10 days after tenancy ends.
Last Month's Rent
No separate last month's rent deposit in Nova Scotia.
Pet Deposit
No additional deposits above the security deposit maximum.
Key Forms & Documents — Nova Scotia
NS J-Forms
Dispute, notice, and application forms
Nova Scotia-specific things to know
- •Nova Scotia has a 5% rent increase cap for existing tenants (as of 2025). Check current legislation as this may change.
- •Hearings before a Director of Residential Tenancies (in-person or by phone).
Common Questions
Can a landlord evict me without reason in Nova Scotia?
Generally no. Nova Scotia landlords need a valid reason (non-payment, damage, landlord's own use, etc.) and must follow the notice requirements in the Residential Tenancies Act. An eviction without proper grounds can be challenged at the RTP.
What can a landlord deduct from my security deposit?
Landlords can deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear. They cannot deduct for: minor scuffs or nail holes, carpet wear from normal use, or general cleaning that was already needed. An itemized statement must be provided.
How do I file a complaint against my landlord (or tenant) in Nova Scotia?
File an application with the Residential Tenancies Program at https://beta.novascotia.ca/programs-and-services/residential-tenancies-program. Filing fee: $31.35 for tenant or landlord applications. Gather your evidence (lease, notices, photos, messages) before filing.
My landlord wants to enter without notice. Is that legal?
In most cases, no. Nova Scotia requires 24 hours' written notice; no notice for emergency. Entry without notice (except for emergencies) is generally a breach of the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment and can be raised as a complaint at the RTP.
Official sources
- Residential Tenancies Program — https://beta.novascotia.ca/programs-and-services/residential-tenancies-program
- Residential Tenancies Act →
Last updated: June 2026
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Get documents →Also see: landlord & tenant rules in other provinces