Renters guide

What to Do Before Signing a Lease in Nova Scotia

A practical pre-signing checklist for renters reviewing a Nova Scotia lease.

Last updated 2026-05-01 by rentnovascotia.ca

Review the basics

Check the rent amount, payment date, included utilities, parking, laundry, pet terms, lease type, deposit terms, and move-in condition process.

Ask before signing

• Who handles maintenance requests?
• What utilities are tenant-paid?
• Is the lease fixed-term or periodic?
• Are there building rules or condo bylaws?
• How are keys, fobs, and parking passes handled?

If anything is unclear, ask for written clarification before signing and review current Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies guidance.