Discrimination by Landlords: Alberta Human Rights Penalties

Tenants in Alberta have clear protections when a landlord treats them differently because of a protected characteristic. This guide explains what landlord discrimination looks like, how Human Rights complaints work in Alberta, and the possible penalties landlords may face. It is written for renters and tenants facing unfair treatment, showing practical steps—what evidence to gather, which official forms to use, and where to get help. You will learn how provincial tribunals and the Alberta Human Rights Commission investigate discrimination claims, how remedies can include damages or orders, and when to consider a tenancy dispute process. Use this information to protect your rights while keeping interactions constructive and focused on resolving the issue.

What counts as discrimination

Landlord discrimination includes actions that treat tenants or applicants unfairly because of protected characteristics such as race, religion, sex, family status, disability, or age. Examples include refusing to rent, imposing different rules, or eviction threats tied to a protected ground. If you believe you experienced differential treatment, document what happened, dates, conversations, messages, and any witnesses. See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for more on local tenancy rules.

How Alberta enforces Human Rights

The Alberta Human Rights Commission receives and screens complaints about discrimination and will investigate or refer matters. You can submit a Human Rights Complaint Form to start the process^[1]. The commission applies the Alberta Human Rights Act when deciding whether discrimination occurred and what penalties or remedies apply^[2].

Penalties and remedies landlords may face

If discrimination is proven, remedies can include orders to stop the discriminatory practice, monetary compensation for lost housing or injury to dignity, and other corrective measures. Penalties aim to restore the tenant and deter repeat conduct. In some cases, tenancy-specific orders (for repairs, possession, or rent) are pursued through the Residential Tenancy dispute process under the province's tenancy law^[4].

Filing a complaint and relevant forms

Two official processes often apply: a Human Rights complaint for discrimination and a tenancy dispute application for rental-specific orders. The Human Rights Complaint Form (Alberta Human Rights Commission complaint form) is used to tell the Commission what happened, who was involved, and what remedy you seek; for example, a tenant with a mobility-related denial of accommodation would state facts, provide dates, and request compensation or an order to change policies^[1]. The RTDRS Application for Dispute Resolution is used when your issue is a tenancy order like eviction, rent repayment, or repairs; for instance, if a landlord changes terms after a tenant reports discrimination and seeks an eviction, the tenant can apply to RTDRS for protection or remedies^[3].

Action steps for tenants

• Gather photos, messages, dates, receipts, and names of witnesses as evidence.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request clarification or a remedy and keep copies of all communication.
• File a Human Rights complaint using the official form if you believe the conduct is discriminatory^[1].
• Consider filing to the RTDRS when you need tenancy orders such as preventing eviction or obtaining repairs^[3].

How-To

1. Collect and organize evidence: photos, messages, dates, and witness names.
2. Communicate in writing with your landlord to try to resolve the issue and keep copies.
3. Submit the Human Rights Complaint Form to the Alberta Human Rights Commission and save a copy of the submission.
4. If the issue requires tenancy orders, apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
5. Seek community legal clinics or tenant advice for help preparing documents.

FAQ

Can a landlord refuse a tenant because of disability?

No. Refusal based on disability is discriminatory. Tenants can request accommodation, document the interaction, and file a Human Rights complaint^[1].

How long do I have to file a Human Rights complaint?

Time limits vary; submit as soon as possible and check the Commission's guidance. Filing promptly helps preserve evidence and options under the law^[1].

What outcomes can I expect if discrimination is found?

Remedies may include compensation, orders to stop discriminatory practices, or referrals to tenancy dispute services for housing-specific orders under provincial tenancy law^[2][3][4].

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission - How to file a complaint
• Contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for tenancy applications
• Consult Alberta Queen's Printer - provincial legislation and official forms

For alternative housing or to search listings while you address a dispute, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

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1. [1] Alberta Human Rights Commission - How to file a complaint
2. [2] Alberta Human Rights Act (Queen's Printer)
3. [3] Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service - Apply and forms
4. [4] Residential Tenancies Act (Queen's Printer)