5 Nova Scotia lease clauses landlords add that don't actually work

These show up in homemade and copy-pasted leases all the time. None of them are enforceable under the Residential Tenancies Act — even when both parties sign. We've cited the specific statute or regulation for each.

1. 1

   "Security deposit equal to one month's rent"

   Nova Scotia caps the security deposit at one-half (0.5) of one month's rent. Amounts above that are unenforceable.

   RTA s. 12

2. 2

   "Rent will increase by X% per year (above cap)"

   While the temporary rent cap is in force (5% as of 2026), increases exceeding the cap are unenforceable for existing tenants, regardless of what the lease states.

   RTA s. 11C; Residential Tenancies Regulations

3. 3

   "No pets ever, under any circumstances"

   A no-pets clause is permitted in Nova Scotia, but it is not enforceable against service animals or where it would conflict with the Human Rights Act.

   Nova Scotia Human Rights Act s. 5(1)

4. 4

   "Lease is on the landlord's own form (no Form P)"

   Nova Scotia requires the Standard Form of Lease (Form P). A private lease is not invalid, but the statutory conditions apply automatically and the tenant may demand a Form P version.

   RTA s. 8 and Schedule

5. 5

   "Tenant is responsible for all repairs"

   The landlord's obligation to keep the premises in good repair (Statutory Condition 1) is non-waivable. The tenant is only liable for damage caused by the tenant or their guests.

   RTA Schedule (Statutory Conditions)