Facing a landlord's refusal to allow accessibility modifications can be discouraging, but tenants in Alberta have clear legal rights and options. This guide explains what accessibility means under Alberta law, which steps to take if you're denied necessary modifications, and how to advocate for your rights without conflict.

Understanding Accessibility in Alberta Rentals

Accessibility modifications are changes or additions to your rental home to accommodate disabilities. Examples include installing grab bars, ramps, or visual fire alarms. In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act and the Alberta Human Rights Act protect tenants with disabilities from discrimination. Landlords must make reasonable efforts to accommodate tenants’ needs, unless doing so would cause undue hardship to the landlord.¹

What to Do If Your Landlord Denies Accessibility Modifications

If you’ve requested a modification and your landlord says no, it’s important to understand your rights. Here are the recommended steps:

• Put Your Request in Writing: Clearly explain your disability, the requested modification, and its necessity. Keep a copy.
• Ask for the Reason for Refusal: Request that your landlord put their reason in writing. This helps if you need to file a complaint later.
• Consider Reasonableness: Landlords can only refuse if the modification would cause them serious difficulty or expense ("undue hardship").
• Negotiate: If possible, discuss alternate modifications or solutions with your landlord.
• Seek Mediation or File a Complaint: If the refusal continues, you may escalate the issue (see below for how-to steps).

Filing a Human Rights Complaint in Alberta

Tenants have the legal right to file a complaint through the Alberta Human Rights Commission if they believe their landlord has discriminated against them by denying reasonable accessibility modifications.²

• Form: Human Rights Complaint Form
• Where to get it: Alberta Human Rights Commission - Forms
• When/How to use: Use if your landlord unreasonably denies your modification request due to disability. Fill it out and submit it to the Commission by mail, fax, or online.

You have 12 months from the date of discrimination to file a complaint.

Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes in Alberta

For other tenancy disputes (like repairs or improper entry), the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles many cases. However, direct discrimination and human rights cases go through the Human Rights Commission.

Are There Limits to Accessibility Modifications?

Landlords must permit reasonable modifications but can set conditions such as:

• Requesting the tenant pay for changes
• Requiring professional installation
• Asking for the unit to be restored at the end of the tenancy

Refusals are only allowed for significant health, safety, or structural concerns, or proven excessive cost.

After an Agreement or Complaint: Your Next Steps

If you and your landlord come to an agreement, put all details in writing. If not, you may receive an investigation or mediation invitation from the Human Rights Commission. If submitting applications or requests, keep copies for your records.

To better understand your general rights and obligations as a renter, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. For Alberta-specific facts, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Need to look for accessible rentals? Browse apartments for rent in Canada and filter for accessibility features right from the start.

FAQ: Dealing with Denied Accessibility Modifications

1. Can my landlord refuse all accessibility modifications?
   Landlords can only refuse if the request is unreasonable or would cause significant harm or expense; most reasonable modifications must be allowed under Alberta law.
2. Do I have to pay for accessibility modifications?
   Usually, tenants pay for the cost, and sometimes for restoring the unit after moving out, unless otherwise negotiated.
3. What should I do if my landlord changes their mind after agreeing?
   Document all communications, and contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission if your rights are affected.
4. How quickly must my landlord respond to my request?
   There’s no strict deadline, but landlords should reply promptly and in good faith. Unreasonable delays may be considered discrimination.
5. Can I make changes before getting landlord approval?
   No. Always wait for landlord approval or legal advice before modifying your rental unit to avoid lease violations.

Key Takeaways for Tenants in Alberta

• Landlords must not unfairly refuse necessary accessibility modifications.
• Put all requests and responses in writing for clarity and proof.
• Contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission for discrimination issues; use RTDRS for other tenancy disputes.

Advocating for your rights ensures both your comfort and legal protection in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Commission – Housing Information: File discrimination complaints, get guides, and fact sheets.
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): For non-human rights tenancy disputes.
• Service Alberta – Consumer Protection: Landlords and Tenants: Official guides, forms, and information for Alberta renters.
• Local tenant advocacy: Edmonton Community Legal Centre, Calgary Legal Guidance, and city-specific housing support services.

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act – Responsibilities and Rights of Tenants and Landlords
2. Alberta Human Rights Act

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