Phylomene Zangio, chair of the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, expresses concern over increasing allegations of housing discrimination in the province. Landlords are reminded of their legal obligation to respect the Human Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, ancestry, or family status. Increasing incidents involve discrimination against families with children and individuals with service animals. Practices like advertising “adults only” buildings or denying accommodation to tenants with service animals breach the act. Housing complaints rose from 4% to 13% of total complaints in 2022-23, indicating a concern for housing rights. Landlords are urged to understand their human rights obligations, and tenants are encouraged to know their rights and responsibilities for fair rental relationships.
