Many tenants in Alberta worry that landlords or agents will refuse a rental application because of how they receive income. This guide explains source-of-income discrimination in clear terms for renters, shows practical steps to document incidents, and points to the official forms and tribunals you can use in Alberta. Whether you are on social assistance, a housing subsidy, or paid through contract work, this article covers how to gather evidence, communicate with landlords, and when to apply to the province's dispute resolution services for help. It uses plain language so renters can understand their options and take action to protect their housing.
What is source-of-income discrimination?
Source-of-income discrimination occurs when a landlord treats an applicant or tenant differently because of how they receive money — for example, refusing applicants who receive government benefits or a housing subsidy. Tenants should know that such treatment can be challenged through Alberta's dispute resolution processes and by reviewing tenancy rules under the Residential Tenancies Act [2]. For a concise overview of tenant protections in this province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.
Is it illegal in Alberta?
Whether behaviour is unlawful depends on the circumstance and the law that applies. The Residential Tenancies Act and related regulations set out landlord and tenant obligations and remedies under provincial tenancy rules [2]. Many tenancy problems are handled through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or provincial processes that accept applications and evidence to resolve disputes [1]. If a refusal or eviction appears tied to a protected human rights ground, other complaint routes may also apply.
How to respond if you suspect discrimination
- Keep detailed records: date, time, names, messages, screenshots, and any written reason given by the landlord.
- Request the landlord to provide the reason in writing and keep that communication as evidence.
- Ask for receipts or records of any application process that shows how decisions were made.
- Consider calling a tenant advice or legal clinic for guidance before filing an application with RTDRS [1].
What official forms and filings you may need
Common official documents used by tenants in Alberta include the RTDRS application and references to the Residential Tenancies Act. The primary form tenants use to start a dispute with the province's dispute resolution service is the RTDRS Application (often called the Application for Dispute Resolution). Use this when you want a binding decision about a tenancy problem — for example, when a landlord refuses to rent because of your source of income and you have evidence showing unequal treatment [1]. The Residential Tenancies Act explains statutory rights and any notices or forms tied to ending a tenancy or requesting repairs [2]. For practical examples, see common tenancy scenarios such as screening and application disputes in Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
Filing timeline and practical tips
- Act promptly: preserve messages and application materials as soon as you suspect discrimination.
- When filing an application, attach clear evidence: photos, screenshots, dates and names of witnesses.
- Bring originals or certified copies of documents to hearings or upload them to the dispute platform.
FAQ
- Is source-of-income discrimination illegal in Alberta?
- It can be addressed through tenancy dispute processes and relevant legislation; whether it is illegal depends on the facts and which law applies, so check RTDRS options and the Residential Tenancies Act [1][2].
- How do I file a complaint about discrimination?
- Start by documenting everything, asking the landlord for written reasons, and then file an RTDRS application with your evidence if you need a formal decision [1].
- What evidence helps a tenant succeed?
- Copies of messages, application records, witness names, dates, photos, and receipts all strengthen a tenant's case when presented to RTDRS or another official forum.
How-To
- Document the incident with dates, messages, names and photos.
- Request a written reason from the landlord and keep that communication.
- Prepare and file an RTDRS Application with your evidence to seek a formal decision [1].
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
- Alberta renting and tenancy information
