Renting in Newfoundland and Labrador: rights, rent increases and average rents

Who handles landlord-tenant disputes in Newfoundland and Labrador, how rent increases work, what rents cost and which programs help.

Who to contact

Residential tenancies in Newfoundland and Labrador are handled by the Residential Tenancies Section (Digital Government and Service NL). It explains the rules, provides the official forms and settles disputes between landlords and tenants. Official site ↗

Rent increases

There is no limit on the amount of a rent increase. Rent can be raised only once in a 12-month period and not in the first 12 months; a month-to-month tenant must get at least six months' written notice.

Exceptions and details

Fixed-term lease: no increase during the term. Week-to-week tenancy: at least 8 weeks' written notice.
The notice must be written and signed, state the effective date, the amount of the increase and the new rent, and take effect on the first day of a rental period.

Source: official rent increase page ↗, read on 2026-11-13.

Average rents by city (2025)

City	Studio	1 bedroom	2 bedrooms	3 bedrooms
St. John's	$945	$1,064	$1,348	$1,327
Gander	–	$849	$1,005	$999
Corner Brook	$562	$776	$949	$1,071
Grand Falls-Windsor	–	$620	$945	–
Bay Roberts	–	–	–	–

Average rent of occupied units in CMHC's survey (Statistics Canada, Table 34-10-0133-01). Asking rents for vacant units are usually higher. All cities →

Help paying rent

The Canada Housing Benefit is delivered by each province and territory, and people with low income may also qualify for social assistance shelter amounts. All programs →

Before you sign

Get the lease in writing and keep a copy.
Ask what is included: heat, electricity, water, parking, internet.
Photograph the unit on move-in day and note existing damage.
Check what deposit is allowed in this province before paying one.
Buy tenant insurance: the landlord's policy does not cover your belongings.

General information, not legal or financial advice. Figures show their source and the date they were read; confirm with the official body before making a decision.