Mr. Henderson, a landlord in Halifax, Nova Scotia, believes his tenant has significantly damaged the rental unit beyond normal wear and tear. The tenancy has ended, and he wants to claim a portion of the security deposit. What is the process he must follow in Nova Scotia?

Question: Mr. Henderson, a landlord in Halifax, Nova Scotia, believes his tenant has significantly damaged the rental unit beyond normal wear and tear. The tenancy has ended, and he wants to claim a portion of the security deposit. What is the process he must follow in Nova Scotia?

Answer options:

• Immediately deduct the repair costs from the security deposit and return the remainder to the tenant. ✅ Provide an itemized statement to the tenant detailing the damages and costs, and attempt to reach an agreement; if no agreement, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program.
• Use the entire security deposit for repairs, as he determines the damage is extensive.
• Sue the tenant in small claims court for the repair costs.

Correct answer: Provide an itemized statement to the tenant detailing the damages and costs, and attempt to reach an agreement; if no agreement, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program.

Explanation: In Nova Scotia, under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must provide a statement of damages and attempt to reach an agreement with the tenant before applying to the Residential Tenancies Program for an order regarding the security deposit.