The Commission states that the last alleged discriminatory act normally must fall within a 12-month filing period. The Director and CEO can grant an extension of up to an additional 12 months in exceptional circumstances.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
The 12-month period
The Commission measures the ordinary intake period from the last alleged act of discrimination. Dates should be identified precisely when preparing an inquiry.
Exceptional extension
For matters beyond 12 months but within the possible extension window, the Commission provides a process to ask the Director and CEO for an extension based on exceptional circumstances.
Do not assume an informal contact stops time
The Commission distinguishes an inquiry from a signed formal complaint. A person facing a deadline should use the current official instructions and seek prompt legal guidance rather than assume an email or conversation preserves a claim.
Review of an extension decision
The Commission states that a Director and CEO decision concerning an extension is reviewable through judicial review in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — making an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — intake reassessments and appeals
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Inquiry Form and intake criteria
- Nova Scotia Legislature — Human Rights Act