Lease Agreement & Documentation
Sign a written Residential Tenancy Agreement (Alberta Standard Lease)
Ensure lease includes rent amount, payment frequency, and term type
Review terms regarding pets, guests, smoking, and repairs
Clarify who handles maintenance and snow/lawn care
Request a signed copy for your records
Keep a signed copy of the lease for your records, and ask for digital access as well. If you don’t receive a signed copy, request it in writing and note the date you asked.
Complete a move-in inspection report
Inspect each room for pre-existing damage
Take photos or videos with timestamps
Sign and exchange the report with your landlord
Your move-in inspection report becomes evidence in case of deposit deductions. Keep the signed document, plus timestamped photos of each room, and reference pre-existing damage when disputes arise.
Rent, Deposits & Utilities
Pay your security deposit (max 1 month’s rent)
Get a receipt and verify it's held in a trust account
Review interest return rules under the RTA
Ask for a written receipt and confirmation that the deposit is held in a trust account. If there’s any doubt, contact a local tenant rights clinic or the housing authority for guidance before you move in.
Understand rent payment process
Know the rent due date, payment methods, and late fee policies
Request receipts for cash or cheque payments
Set up or transfer utilities
Clarify responsibility for electricity, gas, water, internet, and waste services
Contact providers ahead of move-in
Unit Condition & Safety
Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors
Check for cracks, mold, peeling paint, or stains
Test doors and windows
Ensure all locks work and windows open for fire safety
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Verify location, functionality, and battery life
Test electrical system and appliances
Check outlets, breakers, lights, and major appliances
Check plumbing and water pressure
Run taps, flush toilets, test drains and hot water
Logistics & Move-In Day
Get all keys, fobs, mail keys, garage remotes
Reserve elevator and loading area if needed
Set up mail forwarding and update address with services
Notify landlord of confirmed move-in date
Confirm your move-in date in writing and keep a copy of the message. This helps prevent miscommunication about access times and rent start dates.
Final Tenant Responsibilities
Review Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)
Keep signed lease, inspection report, receipts, and communication records
Know how to contact your landlord or property manager
Report maintenance issues promptly in writing
Maintain a written log of issues, dates, and landlord responses; send updates by email or text to create a time-stamped record. If repairs are slow, consult the RTA guide or a local tenant clinic for next steps.
