The Province of Nova Scotia has announced new protocols for showing residential rental units and rental properties during the third wave of COVID-19.
Effective May 21, 2021, a ministerial directive under the Emergency Management Act now requires landlords to gain residential tenants’ consent for in-person showings for the purpose of renting, or in cases where the property is being sold. This applies to rental houses and rental units in buildings and dwellings covered under the Residential Tenancies Act.
If a tenant chooses not to allow in-person viewings, they must allow the landlord, and up to one other person, entry into the rental unit to film or photograph the property for virtual viewings. The landlord must give notice to the tenant a minimum of 24 hours before entry.
“The changes being made will help ensure the health and safety of tenants, landlords and potential tenants, while still allowing essential business to take place,” said Patricia Arab, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services. “The new directive will help to strengthen our collective efforts to fight the third wave of COVID-19.”
In addition, the goverment reiterates that public health protocols must be followed during in-person viewings of residential rental units.
The minister’s directive will be in effect until June 30 unless extended. Click here for more information: Direction-of-Minister-Residential-Tenancies-Virtual-Showing.pdf (novascotia.ca)
