Moving Out Guide for Tenants in Nova Scotia

Planning Your Move-Out

Moving out of a rental property in Nova Scotia involves more than packing boxes. To protect your security deposit, avoid disputes, and ensure a smooth transition, you need to follow specific steps and meet legal requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act.

This guide covers every stage of the move-out process, from giving notice to getting your deposit back.

Giving Proper Notice

Month-to-Month Tenancy

If you are on a month-to-month lease, you must provide one full calendar month's written notice. The notice must be received before the first day of your final month. For example, to move out on June 30, your landlord must receive your notice no later than May 31.

Fixed-Term Lease

If you have a fixed-term lease, the end date is already established. However, you should still confirm your intention to vacate in writing, ideally 2-3 months before the lease ends. If you do not provide notice, the lease will automatically convert to a month-to-month tenancy under the RTA.

How to Give Notice

• Put your notice in writing. Email is acceptable and provides a timestamp.
• Include your name, unit address, and the intended move-out date.
• Keep a copy of the notice for your records.
• If delivering by hand, consider asking your landlord to sign an acknowledgment.

Breaking a Lease Early

If you need to leave before your lease expires, speak with your landlord as soon as possible. Options may include:

• Mutual agreement: Your landlord may agree to release you from the lease.
• Subletting: You may be able to find a subtenant. See our guide on subletting rules in Nova Scotia.
• Assignment: Transfer the lease to a new tenant entirely.

Leaving without proper notice or agreement can result in liability for rent until a new tenant is found or the lease expires.

Preparing the Unit

Cleaning Checklist

A thorough cleaning protects your security deposit. At minimum:

Kitchen:

• Clean inside and outside of all appliances (oven, fridge, microwave, dishwasher)
• Wipe down countertops, cabinets, and backsplash
• Clean the sink and faucet
• Sweep and mop the floor

Bathroom(s):

• Scrub the toilet, bathtub, and shower
• Clean the sink, mirror, and vanity
• Wipe down tiles and grout
• Mop the floor

All Rooms:

• Vacuum or sweep all floors
• Wipe down baseboards, window sills, and light switches
• Clean inside all closets
• Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
• Clean windows (interior)

General:

• Patch small nail holes with filler (check with your landlord first)
• Replace any light bulbs that are burned out
• Remove all personal items, including from storage areas
• Dispose of all garbage and recycling

Repairs and Damage

Address any damage you caused during your tenancy:

• If you made unauthorized modifications, restore the unit to its original condition where possible.
• Report any damage to your landlord rather than trying to hide it, as hidden damage often costs more when discovered.
• Understand the difference between normal wear and tear (which is your landlord's responsibility) and tenant-caused damage. Our guide on tenant responsibilities covers this distinction.

The Final Inspection

Requesting a Walk-Through

Ask your landlord to conduct a final inspection of the unit before you leave. This walk-through benefits both parties:

• You can address any concerns on the spot.
• You and your landlord can agree on the condition of the unit.
• It reduces the likelihood of disputes about deposit deductions.

During the Inspection

• Bring a copy of your move-in photos and condition report for comparison.
• Take new photos of every room during the walk-through.
• Note any items your landlord identifies as concerns.
• Ask for a written summary of the inspection findings.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Under the Nova Scotia RTA, your landlord must return your security deposit within 10 days of your move-out date, minus any legitimate deductions.

Legitimate Deductions

Your landlord may deduct for:

• Damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Unpaid rent
• Unpaid utilities that were your responsibility
• Cleaning costs if the unit was left in an unreasonable condition

What Is NOT a Legitimate Deduction

• Normal wear and tear (faded paint, minor scuffs, worn carpet)
• Repairs that were the landlord's responsibility
• Pre-existing damage that you documented at move-in

If Your Deposit Is Not Returned

If your landlord does not return your deposit within 10 days, or you disagree with the deductions:

1. Send a written request for the deposit.
2. If that fails, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board.
3. For larger disputes, consider small claims court.

For detailed information about your deposit protections, see our guide on security deposit rules in Nova Scotia.

Utilities and Services

Cancel or Transfer

Before move-out day:

• Nova Scotia Power: Schedule a disconnection or transfer for your move-out date.
• Internet and cable: Cancel or transfer your service.
• Water: If billed separately, arrange the final reading.
• Tenant insurance: Cancel your policy or transfer it to your new address. Make sure coverage extends through your move-out date.

Mail

Set up mail forwarding through Canada Post well in advance. Forward your mail for at least 3-6 months to catch any stragglers.

Returning Keys

Return all keys, fobs, garage door openers, and any other access devices to your landlord on or before the move-out date. Get a written receipt confirming the return of all items. Failure to return keys can result in charges for lock changes.

Address Changes

Update your address with:

• Employer
• Bank and credit card companies
• Access Nova Scotia (driver's licence, vehicle registration)
• MSI (health card)
• CRA (for tax purposes)
• Subscriptions and online shopping accounts
• Family doctor and dentist

Common Move-Out Mistakes

• Not giving proper notice: This can cost you a month's rent.
• Not documenting the unit's condition: Both at move-in and move-out.
• Leaving the unit dirty: A thorough clean protects your deposit.
• Not attending the final inspection: You lose the chance to address concerns.
• Forgetting about the deposit: Follow up if it is not returned within 10 days.
• Not redirecting mail: Important correspondence can be lost.

If There Is a Dispute

Disputes at move-out are common, but the RTA provides clear mechanisms for resolution:

• Start with direct communication, as many issues can be resolved between the parties.
• The Residential Tenancies Board handles most landlord-tenant disputes, including deposit disagreements.
• Understand the eviction process to know your rights if your landlord is pressuring you to leave before the proper date.

Moving to a New Rental

If you are moving to a new rental in Nova Scotia, our other guides can help:

• Finding quality rental housing in Halifax
• Renting your first apartment checklist
• Understanding your new lease agreement
• Know your rights under the RTA

How Nova Solutions Makes Moving Out Simple

At Nova Solutions Property Management, we aim to make the move-out process as straightforward as possible. Our team conducts fair inspections, processes deposits promptly, and communicates clearly about any deductions.

We manage properties throughout Nova Scotia, including Halifax and Yarmouth. If you are searching for your next rental home, browse our available listings or contact us. Learn more about our property management services or review our pricing to see how we serve both tenants and property owners.