Facing a bedbug or pest infestation in your Alberta rental can be stressful and overwhelming. Understanding your legal rights and the right process can help you regain peace of mind. As a tenant in Alberta, it’s important to know what steps to take, what your landlord must do, and how to ensure your home is safe and healthy under provincial law.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Responsibilities for Pest Control in Alberta

Pest infestations—such as bedbugs, cockroaches, or mice—pose health and safety risks to tenants. Under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act[1], landlords are responsible for ensuring rental properties meet minimum health and safety standards. This includes keeping the property free of major pest infestations before a new tenancy and taking reasonable action to control an infestation once reported by a tenant.

According to the law:

• Landlords must maintain the rental unit in a habitable and safe condition.
• Tenants must keep their unit clean and promptly notify the landlord about any pest or bedbug issues.

If an infestation develops, both parties usually need to cooperate for successful treatment.

What to Do if You Discover Bedbugs or Pests

If you suspect bedbugs or another pest problem:

• Act quickly—report the issue to your landlord in writing as soon as possible.
• Keep records, such as photos, dates, and responses.
• Follow instructions for preparation or cleanup as required by any pest control company engaged by your landlord.

Notifying Your Landlord and Taking Action

As a tenant, you are required to notify your landlord of a pest or bedbug problem. Written notice (such as an email or letter) is best, as it creates a record of your communication. Here’s an example:

• Date the letter or email.
• Clearly state the nature of the infestation (e.g., bedbugs, cockroaches).
• Describe any impacts on your living situation (e.g., bites, property damage).
• Request action and keep copies for your records.

If your landlord responds but doesn’t adequately address the issue, follow up in writing and keep all correspondence.

When Your Landlord Must Act

Landlords must take "reasonable steps" to fix infestations after being notified. This often includes hiring a licensed pest control service and following recommendations for treatment and cleaning. However, Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained are shared—if a tenant’s actions contributed to the infestation (such as failing to keep the unit clean), they may need to cooperate or share some responsibility.

If Your Landlord Does Not Resolve the Problem

If your landlord fails to address the pest issue after being notified, Alberta tenants have several remedies:

• Contact Environmental Public Health Services, Alberta Health Services (AHS Environmental Public Health), who may inspect and order action for severe infestations.
• Apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for an order requiring your landlord to perform necessary repairs or treatments, or for compensation if personal property was damaged.
• Withhold rent only when ordered by the RTDRS or court; do not withhold rent on your own, as it may risk eviction.

For practical, day-to-day advice on keeping your rental safe from pests, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If you need to file a complaint or pursue legal remedies, use the appropriate RTDRS application form.

Important RTDRS Forms

• Application for Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution (RTDRS Form): Use this form to request an order for repairs, cleaning, or compensation. Get the official RTDRS Application form here. Tenants should attach supporting evidence such as photos, written notices, and pest control reports.
• Notice to Vacate (Form 1): If your unit is deemed unsafe by Alberta Health Services and you are required to leave, your landlord must give proper notice. Read more about official forms here.

These forms are commonly used when other solutions haven’t worked and you need the RTDRS to intervene.

What Are My Options If the Infestation Is Severe?

In rare cases, if the unit is uninhabitable and your landlord does not fix the problem, you may:

• Contact Alberta Health Services, who may issue orders that could allow you to end your tenancy without penalty.
• Apply to the RTDRS to terminate your lease.
• Consult with a tenant support service before moving out to avoid risk of losing your deposit.

Find detailed guidance in Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

Routine Prevention and Initial Inspections

Bedbugs and pests can happen almost anywhere. Keep your rental clean and report any issues quickly. When moving into a new rental, always ask about recent pest control treatments and complete a move-in inspection together with your landlord. See Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for more on best practices.

For more tips and to compare housing across the country, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

Want to better understand tenant rights and landlord duties in Alberta? Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a comprehensive overview.

FAQ: Bedbug and Pest Infestions in Alberta Rentals

1. Who is responsible for pest control in my Alberta rental?
   The landlord is responsible for treating pest infestations, unless they can prove the tenant’s actions caused the problem.
2. Can I refuse to pay rent because of bedbugs?
   No, tenants must not withhold rent unless a tribunal or court permits it. Withholding rent could risk eviction.
3. What should I do if my landlord ignores the pest issue?
   File a written complaint, keep records, and apply to the RTDRS or contact Alberta Health Services if the infestation makes your home unlivable.
4. Do I need to prepare anything for pest treatment?
   Yes. Follow instructions from the pest control provider (such as clearing closets or washing linens) to help treatment succeed.
5. What if my belongings are damaged by pests?
   If pests damaged your property because your landlord failed to act, you may claim compensation through the RTDRS with proof.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Government – Residential Tenancies: Official rules, forms, and advice
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): File tenancy applications and seek dispute resolution
• Alberta Health Services: Environmental Public Health: Report serious pest or health hazards
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA): Tenant information and free resources

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act – full text of the current legislation
2. Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – official information & forms
3. Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health – official website

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