Maintaining stairs, hallways, elevators and shared laundry is a common concern for renters. In Alberta, understanding who must repair and maintain these common areas can protect your safety and your rights as a tenant. This guide explains typical landlord duties, what tenants may be expected to do, how to document problems, and the steps to request repairs or escalate issues. It focuses on residential rental buildings — apartment blocks, duplexes and multi-unit houses — and clarifies when to contact your landlord, the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service, or other official resources. Readers will find practical examples, action steps for filing complaints, and links to Alberta’s rules and forms so you can act with confidence.
Who is responsible for common areas?
In most Alberta rental arrangements the landlord is responsible for maintaining common areas so they are safe and functional. Common areas include corridors, stairways, lighting, shared laundry rooms, elevators, and exterior walkways. The Residential Tenancies Act sets habitability expectations and places primary repair and maintenance duties on the landlord, unless the lease explicitly and lawfully shifts certain small responsibilities to the tenant.[1]
Typical landlord duties
- Repair and maintain structural elements and building systems (heating, elevators, lighting).
- Keep hallways, stairs and entrances free from hazards and snow/ice during cold months.
- Ensure common-area locks, security lighting and safety systems meet applicable codes.
When tenants may have obligations
Tenants can be responsible for damage they cause or for agreed-upon small tasks in the lease (for example, replacing a burned-out light bulb in their unit). Tenants are not typically required to perform repairs to shared systems like elevators, roof leaks, or building heating. If your lease tries to shift major repair obligations to you, check the law and seek advice before accepting those terms; unfair or illegal terms may not be enforceable. For an overview of landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
How to report and document common-area problems
Start with clear, dated documentation: photos, the date and time, and a short description of the hazard. Send a written request to your landlord or property manager and keep a copy. If the issue affects habitability or safety — for example broken lighting on stairs, major water leaks, or elevator failures — tell the landlord immediately and follow up in writing.
- Take clear photos or video showing the problem and the exact location.
- Send a written notice by email or letter that describes the issue, date, and your requested remedy.
- Note who you spoke to, the date and time, and any promised deadlines for action.
When to escalate: dispute resolution and timelines
If your landlord does not respond or fixes the problem slowly when safety is at risk, you can apply for dispute resolution through Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or raise the issue with Service Alberta. The RTDRS hears many landlord-tenant maintenance disputes and can order repairs, rent abatement, or other remedies. Use official guidance and forms when you apply to make sure your case proceeds smoothly.[2]
Practical examples
- If elevator failures trap residents, the landlord must arrange repairs and communicate timelines to tenants.
- If exterior walkways are not cleared of ice, report the hazard in writing and request immediate action; document any injuries or near-misses.
- If shared laundry equipment breaks, ask for a repair timeline and keep copies of correspondence until fixed.
FAQ
- Who enforces common-area maintenance rules in Alberta?
- The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) and Service Alberta provide enforcement for tenancy-related maintenance issues; you can apply to RTDRS if informal requests fail.[2]
- Can a landlord charge tenants for common-area repairs?
- Landlords cannot charge tenants for repairs that are their legal responsibility. Charges for normal wear and building maintenance should not be passed to tenants unless your lease specifically and lawfully assigns a permitted fee.
- What evidence helps a tenant succeed in a maintenance dispute?
- Photos, dated written requests, witness statements, and records of any health or safety impacts are the most persuasive evidence in RTDRS or tribunal hearings.
How-To
- Document the problem with photos or video and note dates, times and any safety concerns.
- Send a written request to the landlord describing the issue and your requested remedy; keep a copy.
- If there is no timely response, follow up by phone and record details of the conversation.
- If informal steps fail, apply to the RTDRS with your documentation and the official application form.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords are generally responsible for keeping common areas safe and in repair.
- Document problems, make written requests, and keep all records to support any dispute.
- Use RTDRS and official forms when informal requests do not resolve urgent safety or habitability issues.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Service Alberta: Renting and Residential Tenancies
