If you’re renting a home in Alberta, it’s important to understand how last month's rent works and what your rights and responsibilities are. Renting can often feel confusing, especially when it comes to deposits and end-of-tenancy costs. This article explains how last month's rent is handled in Alberta, including key differences from other provinces, and gives you the knowledge and resources you need to protect yourself.

What Is Last Month's Rent? Is It Common in Alberta?

In some parts of Canada, like Ontario, landlords often require tenants to pay "last month's rent" up front to secure a tenancy. However, in Alberta, the practice is different. Landlords in Alberta cannot legally require payment of last month's rent as a separate deposit or advanced rent.

Instead, Alberta law allows landlords to request a security deposit, often called a "damage deposit", which can never exceed one month’s rent. This is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).¹

How Does Rent Payment Work in Alberta?

Alberta tenants must pay rent at the time and in the manner agreed in their rental agreement. There is no requirement to pay rent in advance beyond your regular rent and the security deposit. You never pay "last month's rent" as a separate item—instead, you simply keep paying rent until the day you lawfully move out.

Security Deposits: What Can Be Collected?

Landlords in Alberta may collect:

• A security deposit (damage deposit) up to the equivalent of one month’s rent
• No additional deposits for last month’s rent

For more information about security and other deposits, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

When and How Are Security Deposits Returned?

The landlord must return the security deposit (plus interest, as required by law) within 10 days after the end of the tenancy, minus any allowable deductions (like unpaid rent or damages).

Action Steps: How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

• Give proper written notice as required by your lease or by law
• Complete a move-out inspection with your landlord
• Provide a forwarding address
• Request the return of your deposit if not refunded within 10 days

If you need more help with moving out, check out How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Understanding Repairs, Damages, and Deductions

Landlords can only deduct from your security deposit to cover unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or cleaning costs necessary to restore the unit to its original state. Routine repairs are generally a landlord’s responsibility—see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for more details.

What Forms Might You Need?

• Condition Report Form: Used to document the unit’s state at move-in and move-out. Completing this form protects you from unfair deductions. You and your landlord should each keep a signed copy. Find the latest form and guides on the Government of Alberta Residential Tenancy Inspections page.
• Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy (14-day or 30-day notice): Used if you wish to end your lease lawfully. See instructions and templates on the Government of Alberta Ending Rental Agreement page.

Who Handles Disputes in Alberta?

If there’s a disagreement over a deposit—such as if it’s withheld unfairly—you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). They provide a faster, less formal way to resolve most landlord-tenant disputes in Alberta. To apply, visit their How to Make an Application to the RTDRS page and follow posted instructions.

Key Differences from Other Provinces

Remember, "last month's rent" deposits are common in places like Ontario, but not in Alberta. If you're moving from out of province, always check local rules carefully. For Alberta-specific rights, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Looking for your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—it’s a hassle-free way to browse apartments and houses in every province.

Frequently Asked Questions About Last Month’s Rent in Alberta

1. Can my landlord require last month's rent up front in Alberta?
   No, landlords in Alberta can only request a security deposit up to one month’s rent, not last month's rent paid in advance.
2. What happens to my security deposit when I move out?
   The landlord must return your security deposit (plus interest) within 10 days after your tenancy ends, unless there are valid deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
3. How can I make sure I get my deposit back?
   Do a move-in and move-out inspection using the condition report form, pay your rent on time, and leave the unit clean and undamaged.
4. Where can I file a complaint if my deposit isn't returned?
   Contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) to file a claim.
5. Are there other special deposits I have to pay?
   No, Alberta law only allows for a single security deposit (damage deposit) of up to one month’s rent.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Alberta landlords cannot ask for last month's rent in advance
• Only a security deposit (up to one month’s rent) is allowed
• Documenting the condition of your rental is crucial to get your deposit back
• For unresolved issues, the RTDRS can help you resolve disputes

Staying informed about your rights can save you time, money, and stress when renting in Alberta.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies main page
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Service Alberta – Consumer Contact Centre: 1-877-427-4088
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta
• For listings: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (RSA 2000, c R-17.1): Read the full legislation
2. Alberta Government overview: Renting in Alberta: The Basics

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