Can Landlords Charge a Pet Deposit in Alberta?

Renting with pets in Alberta raises important questions about tenant rights and landlord rules. If you’re a tenant with a dog or cat, you want to know whether your landlord can legally charge a pet deposit, and what protections exist under Alberta law. This guide provides clear answers on pet deposits, using official sources, and highlights what to expect in different rental situations.

What Is a Pet Deposit?

A pet deposit is money a landlord may ask a tenant to provide before moving in with a pet. In Alberta, the rules about if and how landlords can collect a pet deposit are set out by the provincial government and are important to understand before you sign a rental agreement.

Are Pet Deposits Allowed in Alberta?

Yes, in Alberta, landlords are allowed to ask for a pet deposit if you want to keep a pet in your rental property.

This is permitted under Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act¹. However, there are specific rules limiting the amount and use of any pet deposit.

How Much Can a Landlord Charge for a Pet Deposit?

A pet deposit in Alberta:

• Cannot exceed one month’s rent,
• When combined with the security deposit, the total of both deposits also cannot exceed one month’s rent.

For example, if your rent is $1,200 per month, your landlord can collect a pet deposit (or security deposit), but the total for both combined can't be more than $1,200.

What Is the Difference Between a Security Deposit and a Pet Deposit?

In Alberta, these two deposits have important differences:

• Security deposit: May be used for unpaid rent or damage, but not specifically for pet damages unless noted in your agreement.
• Pet deposit: Can only be used for damages caused by your pet and not for unpaid rent.

Both must be managed according to Alberta law: held in trust, and returned with interest unless the landlord has a valid reason for withholding all or part of the money.

When Can a Landlord Keep a Pet Deposit?

A landlord can keep all or part of the pet deposit only to repair damages caused directly by your pet. General wear and tear doesn’t count, and if there’s no damage caused by your pet, the deposit must be returned with interest.

What Tenants Should Do When a Landlord Requests a Pet Deposit

• Ask your landlord to put all deposit details in writing in your lease agreement.
• Get a clear receipt for your pet deposit.
• At move-in and move-out, complete a detailed inspection report. Consider reading the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for tips on this process.
• Ask for your deposit back (with interest) if there was no pet damage at the end of your tenancy.

Clear documentation helps avoid disputes about what’s owed or what is considered pet damage.

Pet deposits are separate from other fees. Landlords cannot ask for additional "pet rent" or non-refundable pet fees in Alberta—only a refundable deposit.

Official Tribunal: Service Alberta's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

If you disagree with your landlord about a pet deposit or any deduction from it, Alberta tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). This is the official body handling landlord-tenant disputes in Alberta.

Which Forms Might Be Relevant?

• Inspection Report (Form): Used at move-in and move-out to document unit condition, including any existing damage. This helps protect both the landlord and tenant if the pet deposit is disputed. Download the official inspection form. Complete this before moving in and again when moving out.
• RTDRS Application (Form): If you need to challenge a withheld deposit, submit the RTDRS Application online or in-person. This lets you ask for an official decision from the RTDRS.

Additional Resources For Tenants With Pets

If you’re considering a new rental with a pet, it’s wise to review Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for an overview of deposits, returns, and legal requirements in Alberta.

For finding new pet-friendly homes, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for listings tailored to your needs.

For a detailed breakdown of rights for Alberta tenants, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a landlord charge both a pet deposit and a damage deposit in Alberta?
   No. The combined total of all deposits (pet + security/damage) cannot exceed the equivalent of one month's rent.
2. Does the pet deposit cover regular cleaning costs?
   No. Pet deposits can only be used for actual pet damages, not standard cleaning or wear and tear.
3. Can the landlord keep the pet deposit if my pet caused no damage?
   No. If there is no pet-related damage, the pet deposit (plus interest) must be returned to you after you move out.
4. What can I do if my landlord refuses to return my pet deposit?
   You can apply to the RTDRS for a decision. Keep your inspection reports and communication records as evidence.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Renters

• Pet deposits are legal but strictly limited: the total of all deposits can’t be more than one month’s rent.
• Pet deposits are only for actual pet-related damage, not normal wear or general cleaning.
• If you and your landlord disagree, use your inspection reports and official forms to help resolve the issue.

By knowing your rights, you can protect yourself and your pet when renting in Alberta.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies - Laws and guides for tenants and landlords.
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - For resolving disputes in Alberta rentals.
• Alberta Federation of Labour: Tenants’ Rights - Advocacy and assistance for Alberta tenants.
• Learn more at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

1. See section 46(1) of the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Information about dispute resolution: RTDRS official website
3. Inspection report and forms for tenants: Government of Alberta - Inspection Report