A rental property needs a tenancy plan as well as a maintenance plan. Before advertising, check the current Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies resources and confirm that the proposed use complies with municipal requirements.
Before the tenancy
- Review the current rules, lease documentation and required information.
- Confirm permitted use and any approvals needed for a new or converted rental unit.
- Discuss rental use with your insurer.
- Arrange an appropriate condition assessment and deal with outstanding safety or maintenance issues.
- Establish a secure system for tenant information, payments and documents.
At handover
Document the property's condition with the tenant where possible. Record keys, supplied equipment, meter information where relevant and outstanding agreed work. Explain how to report repairs and urgent problems. Handle any deposit in accordance with the current rules rather than an informal arrangement.
During the tenancy
Maintain a dated repair log showing the report, response, work arranged and completion. Keep clear records of communications and permissions. Check the official requirements before entering a rented home, issuing notices, changing rent or ending a tenancy.
If you live away
Nominate an authorised local contact with a defined role. Decide who deals with tenant communications, repairs, emergencies and formal tenancy matters. Paying someone to check a building does not automatically appoint them to manage a tenancy.
When a disagreement arises
Use the Residential Tenancies process and obtain legal advice when needed. Do not improvise lock changes, utility disconnections or removal of belongings.
Official resources
Related advice
Need a local contact while you’re away?
Discuss property check-ins, seasonal monitoring or coordination of agreed work with Annapolis Royal Property Care. Confirm the scope and availability for your property.
Prepared 21 October 2026. General information for property owners; official sources and individual policy or professional advice govern specific decisions. External links are independent of ARPC.