Being subject to unwanted pressure, threats, or repeated intrusions from a landlord can be stressful and confusing. As a tenant in Alberta you have rights and options to protect your home and safety. This guide explains what landlord harassment commonly looks like, how to document incidents clearly for a dispute or hearing, which provincial services and forms to use, and practical steps to seek resolution while maintaining your tenancy. It uses plain language for renters and includes examples of evidence, timelines to follow, and where to get legal or community help. If you're unsure what to do first, start by recording the behaviour and preserving communications so you can act with confidence.
Understanding landlord harassment
Landlord harassment includes behaviours that pressure, threaten, or unreasonably interfere with a tenant's quiet enjoyment. Common examples are threats about eviction, repeated unwanted entry, verbal intimidation, or withholding services to force a move. For a clear summary of tenant and landlord rights specific to Alberta see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta[1]. If you want practical advice on raising concerns with a landlord, the resource How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide explains communication and escalation steps.
- Repeated, unannounced entry into your unit.
- Threats about eviction or legal action without following procedure.
- Persistent, harassing calls, texts, or messages.
What to document
Good records make complaints actionable. Focus on dates, times, witnesses, communications, and any physical evidence. Store copies of everything and back them up.
- Photos, screenshots of messages, and videos showing incidents or damage.
- All rent receipts, deposit records, and any charges disputed with the landlord.
- A written log with dates, times, locations, and short descriptions of each event.
Responding and next steps
Start by telling the landlord in writing that the behaviour is not acceptable and keep a copy. If harassment continues, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or, in some cases, pursue a court claim. The RTDRS accepts an application form to start a hearing; this form asks for contact details, a brief description of the problem, and the remedy you want (for example, an order to stop the harassment or compensation). Use the RTDRS application when you cannot resolve the problem directly and you want a formal hearing to get an enforceable order.[2] You may also rely on the Residential Tenancies Act for legal definitions and rights.[3]
FAQ
- What counts as landlord harassment?
- Harassment covers repeated threats, intimidation, unlawful entry, cutting services, or any pattern of behaviour that interferes with your right to quiet enjoyment of the rental unit.
- Can a landlord enter my unit without permission?
- Except in emergencies, landlords must give proper notice and a lawful reason for entry. Unauthorized entry can be part of a harassment claim.
- How do I file a complaint in Alberta and what forms will I need?
- Start by documenting incidents, try a written complaint to the landlord, then file the RTDRS application to request a hearing if the issue is unresolved. Keep copies of the application and any supporting evidence.
How-To
- Gather and organize evidence: photos, messages, receipts, and a dated log.
- Contact the landlord in writing to describe the issue and request that the behaviour stop.
- Send a clear complaint letter or email and keep a copy for your records.
- Complete and submit the RTDRS application form with your evidence to ask for a hearing.
- Prepare for the hearing by organizing documents and noting key points to say aloud.
- If you get an order, follow the steps to have it enforced; keep records of any compliance or breach.
Help and Support / Resources
- Alberta Government — Residential tenancy information
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — How to apply
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) — Legislation
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