How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord in Nova Scotia

Getting Repairs Done in Your Rental

Every tenant will need to request repairs at some point during their tenancy. Whether it is a leaky faucet, a broken appliance, or a more serious structural issue, knowing the proper way to request repairs in Nova Scotia protects your rights and leads to faster resolutions.

Under the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act, your landlord is legally required to maintain the rental property in a good state of repair and in compliance with health, safety, and housing standards. This guide walks you through the repair request process from start to finish.

Step 1: Identify the Issue

Before contacting your landlord, clearly identify the problem:

• What is the issue? Be specific. "The kitchen faucet drips constantly" is more helpful than "the plumbing is broken."
• When did it start? Note the date you first noticed the problem.
• Is it an emergency? If the issue poses an immediate threat to health, safety, or the property, follow the emergency procedures in our guide to maintenance emergencies at your rental.

Emergency vs. Non-Emergency

Emergencies require an immediate response:

• Burst pipes or flooding
• Gas leaks
• No heat in winter
• Electrical hazards
• Fire damage
• Security breaches (broken locks, break-ins)

Non-emergencies should be reported promptly but can wait for a reasonable response:

• Dripping faucets
• Minor appliance issues
• Cosmetic damage
• Sticking doors or windows
• Running toilets

Step 2: Document the Problem

Before contacting your landlord, document the issue thoroughly:

• Take photos and videos: Capture the problem from multiple angles. Include a date stamp or hold up your phone showing the date.
• Write a description: Note the location, severity, and any impact on your daily life.
• Record any related issues: For example, a water stain on the ceiling might indicate a roof leak.

Good documentation protects you in several ways: it provides evidence of when the problem started, shows its severity, and supports your position if a dispute arises.

Step 3: Submit Your Request in Writing

While a phone call may be appropriate for urgent matters, always follow up with a written request. Written communication creates a paper trail that is invaluable if the issue is not resolved.

What to Include in Your Written Request

1. Date of the request
2. Your name and unit number
3. Clear description of the problem
4. When you first noticed it
5. Any immediate steps you have taken (e.g., placing a bucket under a drip)
6. Attached photos or videos
7. Request for a timeline for the repair

Sample Repair Request

Dear [Landlord/Property Manager],

I am writing to report a maintenance issue in Unit [X] at [Address].

The kitchen faucet has been dripping steadily since [date]. I have attached photos showing the issue. The constant drip is wasting water and has caused a small stain on the countertop below.

Could you please arrange for this to be repaired? I would appreciate a timeline for when I can expect the work to be completed.

Thank you, [Your Name]

How to Send Your Request

• Email: Provides a clear timestamp and delivery confirmation.
• Property management portal: Many companies, including Nova Solutions, offer online maintenance request systems.
• Text message: Acceptable for less formal communication, but follow up with email for documentation.
• Written letter: More formal; consider this if previous requests have been ignored.

Step 4: Allow Reasonable Time for Response

What counts as "reasonable" depends on the severity of the issue:

• Emergencies: Should be addressed within hours, not days.
• Urgent but non-emergency issues (e.g., no hot water): Within 1-3 days.
• Routine repairs (e.g., a squeaky door): Within 1-2 weeks.
• Larger projects (e.g., replacing an appliance): May take longer, but your landlord should communicate a timeline.

If your landlord is a professional property management company, they typically have established timelines for different repair categories. At Nova Solutions, we prioritize repair requests based on urgency and keep tenants informed throughout the process.

Step 5: Follow Up If Needed

If you have not received a response within a reasonable time:

1. Send a follow-up email: Reference your original request and ask for an update.
2. Keep a log: Record every attempt to contact your landlord, including dates and methods.
3. Be persistent but professional: A calm, documented approach is more effective than emotional communication.

Step 6: Escalate If Repairs Are Not Made

If your landlord ignores your repair request or unreasonably delays, you have options under the RTA:

Contact the Residential Tenancies Board

You can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board to compel your landlord to make repairs. The Board can:

• Order the landlord to complete specific repairs within a set timeframe
• Award you compensation for inconvenience or out-of-pocket expenses
• Reduce your rent if the unit is not being maintained to standard

Contact Municipal Authorities

If the issue involves a health or safety code violation, you can contact your municipality's building inspection or bylaw enforcement department. In Halifax, this is handled through 311.

Small Claims Court

For financial damages resulting from your landlord's failure to make repairs, small claims court may be appropriate.

What You Should NOT Do

While frustration is understandable, certain actions can backfire:

• Do not withhold rent: In Nova Scotia, withholding rent is not a recognized remedy for unresolved repairs. Pay your rent and pursue the issue through proper channels.
• Do not make major repairs yourself: Unless you have written permission, making unauthorized repairs can create liability issues.
• Do not retaliate: Escalate through proper legal channels, not through confrontation.

Tenant Responsibilities for Minor Maintenance

Remember that some maintenance falls under your tenant responsibilities:

• Replacing light bulbs
• Keeping the unit clean
• Preventing drain clogs through proper use
• Changing furnace filters if specified in your lease
• Minor upkeep like tightening loose screws on cabinet hardware

Your Rights During Repairs

When repairs are being made in your unit:

• Your landlord must give 24 hours' written notice before entering for non-emergency repairs.
• Repairs should be scheduled at reasonable hours.
• You should be informed about the scope and expected duration of the work.
• Your personal belongings should be respected during the repair process.

Special Situations

Repairs Needed Due to Tenant Damage

If the repair is needed because of damage you caused (beyond normal wear and tear), you may be responsible for the cost. This is one reason security deposits exist. If you accidentally cause damage, report it immediately. Delaying the report can make the problem worse and increase costs.

Repairs in Common Areas

Issues in shared spaces (hallways, laundry rooms, parking areas) should also be reported to your landlord. These areas must meet the same maintenance and safety standards as individual units.

Repairs After a Disaster

If your unit is damaged by fire, flood, or other disaster, your landlord is responsible for restoring the property. Your tenant insurance may cover temporary accommodation and personal property losses. Review our guide on dealing with property damage in Nova Scotia for the landlord's perspective.

How Nova Solutions Handles Repair Requests

At Nova Solutions Property Management, we make the repair process simple. Tenants in our managed properties across Halifax, Yarmouth, and beyond can submit maintenance requests through our online portal. We triage every request by urgency, dispatch qualified contractors, and keep tenants informed throughout the process.

Looking for a rental with responsive property management? Browse our available listings or contact our team. For more information about our services, visit our services page or review our pricing.