Alberta Tenant Safety and Security Rights Explained

Every tenant in Alberta has the right to feel safe and secure at home. Whether you rent an apartment, condo, or house, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding safety, repairs, and security can help you resolve issues and advocate for yourself. This guide explains Alberta's laws on rental safety and security, including who’s responsible for repairs, how to address vital health issues, and what to do if your living environment is unsafe.

Your Right to a Safe and Secure Home in Alberta

Alberta law requires every residential rental unit to meet basic health, safety, and security standards at all times. Landlords must keep homes in “good repair” and free from hazards, while tenants must use the rental responsibly and report damage or concerns.

Alberta’s main legislation covering these rights is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1]. This law sets the minimum standards and outlines the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.

Key Safety and Security Rights for Alberta Tenants

• Safe entry doors with functioning locks and keys
• Working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors (where required), and fire exits
• Proper heating and hot/cold running water
• Building free from infestations or significant mold
• Secure mailboxes and common spaces, if provided

Your landlord can’t cut off heat, water, or electricity, even if rent is overdue.

Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities Explained

Both tenants and landlords have specific roles in keeping the rental home safe. Landlords must perform necessary repairs and maintain the unit’s security features. Tenants must avoid damaging the property, not interfere with safety equipment, and promptly notify the landlord of any problems.

To learn more about these shared responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Reporting Safety or Health Issues

If you spot mold, pests, major leaks, or another hazard, notify your landlord right away. Alberta law requires landlords to address serious maintenance and safety issues quickly.

• Provide notice in writing for non-urgent repairs
• For emergencies (like no heat in winter or broken locks), notify the landlord immediately by phone and follow up in writing
• Document all problems with photos or notes

If your landlord doesn’t respond, you can contact Alberta Health Services for health concerns, or file an application with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

Common Health and Safety Concerns in Alberta Rentals

The most frequent safety issues involve heating failures, doors that don’t lock, missing smoke detectors, infestations, and inadequate plumbing. Learn more about common hazards and prevention strategies in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Essential Government Forms for Tenants

• Notice to Landlord to Remedy a Substantial Breach (Form 7): Use this form if your landlord is not addressing a serious safety or maintenance problem. Submit the Notice to Landlord to Remedy a Substantial Breach to your landlord and keep a copy. Example: If the front door lock is broken and landlord won’t repair it, serving this notice is your first step.
• Application for the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): If the landlord doesn’t fix urgent problems, file an application with the RTDRS. Use the RTDRS Application Form if your safety concerns remain unresolved.

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Alberta?

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is Alberta’s main tribunal for resolving rental disputes. You can apply online or visit a RTDRS office to get help with unresolved safety, repair, or security problems.

What to Do if You Feel Unsafe or Repairs Aren't Made

• Document the issue and your communication with the landlord
• Send a formal repair request or Notice to Remedy a Substantial Breach
• Contact Alberta Health Services for serious health hazards
• Apply to the RTDRS if the problem continues

Never stop paying your rent as a response—this can place you at risk of eviction, even if repairs are outstanding.

Additional Tips for Safe Renting in Alberta

• Always receive keys to working locks at move-in
• Attend a move-in inspection and complete inspection reports
• Store copies of all correspondence, forms, and photos related to your rental

For practical guidance on moving in safely, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Searching for a new rental and want confidence in your next move? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with secure search features and clear listing details.

Want to compare with other provinces? See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a summary of rules unique to Alberta.

1. What should I do if my landlord isn’t fixing safety hazards? Inform your landlord in writing, use the Notice to Landlord to Remedy a Substantial Breach (Form 7) if needed, and file with the RTDRS if the issue is not resolved.
2. Are landlords required to provide working locks and smoke detectors in Alberta? Yes, landlords must provide and maintain secure locks and smoke alarms according to Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act and fire codes.
3. Can a landlord enter my unit without notice for safety or repairs? Landlords must provide at least 24 hours notice, except in emergencies relating to safety, such as a fire or water leak.
4. Who can I contact if I believe my home is unsafe due to mold, pests, or urgent repairs? Contact Alberta Health Services for health issues or file a dispute with the RTDRS if your landlord won’t resolve the problem.

1. How do I submit a Notice to Landlord to Remedy a Substantial Breach? Download Form 7, fill it out detailing the issue, and deliver it to your landlord. Keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I apply to the RTDRS if my landlord won’t fix a serious problem? Complete the RTDRS Application Form online or in person, attach evidence like photos or messages, and submit it to the tribunal for review.
3. How can I document safety or security issues in my unit? Take photos or videos, note dates and conversations, and store all communication regarding your concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Alberta tenants are protected by clear health and safety laws and have tools for dealing with urgent issues
• Keep a record of communications and act quickly on any safety concerns
• Official forms and Alberta’s RTDRS can help if your rental is not safe or secure

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – File a dispute, ask questions
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act – Read the full legislation
• Alberta Health Services – Environmental Health
• Seniors or those needing extra support: Contact Alberta’s Consumer Contact Centre at 1-877-427-4088

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
3. Notice to Landlord to Remedy a Substantial Breach (Form 7)

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