Tenant’s Notice to Terminate Periodic Tenancy in Alberta Explained

If you’re renting in Alberta and have a month-to-month or other periodic tenancy, understanding how to properly end your rental agreement can help protect your rights and avoid disagreements with your landlord. In Alberta, tenants must use the Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Periodic Tenancy form and follow specific steps set out by law. This guide explains what the form is, when and how to use it, and answers common questions tenants have about ending a periodic tenancy.

What Is a Periodic Tenancy in Alberta?

A periodic tenancy is a rental agreement that renews automatically—most commonly month-to-month, but it might also be week-to-week or year-to-year. In Alberta, these tenancies do not have a set end date. To end a periodic tenancy, tenants must provide formal written notice following the legally required process.

What Is the Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Periodic Tenancy Form?

This is the official document used by tenants to give written notice to their landlord when they want to end a periodic tenancy. In Alberta, the form is provided by the provincial government and must include details such as:

• The tenant’s name and signature
• The full address of the rental unit
• The date notice is given
• The termination (move-out) date

You can find the form here: Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Periodic Tenancy (Government of Alberta).

How Much Notice Must a Tenant Give?

The amount of notice required depends on the type of periodic tenancy:

• Month-to-month tenancy: At least one full tenancy month’s written notice is required before the end of a rental period.
• Week-to-week tenancy: At least one full tenancy week’s written notice.
• Year-to-year tenancy: At least 60 days’ notice before the last day of the tenancy year.

Notice periods begin the day after the landlord receives written notice. Double-check the date requirements on the Residential Tenancies Act for accuracy[1].

How to Complete and Submit the Form

Here is a brief step-by-step summary for Alberta tenants ending a periodic tenancy:

• Download or print the official government form linked above.
• Complete all required sections accurately.
• Sign and date the form.
• Deliver the form to your landlord as specified in the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) guidelines—this can be in person, by mail, or any method stated in your lease.
• Keep a copy for your records in case of disputes.

Properly ending your tenancy and documenting the process can help ensure your security deposit is returned. For more on this, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not giving enough notice based on tenancy type
• Failing to use the official written notice form
• Not keeping proof of delivery to the landlord
• Planning to move out before the minimum notice period ends

What Happens After You Give Notice?

After the landlord receives your notice, your tenancy will officially end on the date specified (as long as you’ve met the notice rules). On your last day, ensure your belongings are removed and the unit is clean. For more moving tips, read Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

If you’re not sure whether your lease is periodic or fixed-term, review your original agreement or seek advice from a tenant support organization.

For full provincial details, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

You can also find rental homes across Canada on Houseme, including solutions if you’re planning your next move: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

FAQ: Ending Periodic Tenancies in Alberta

1. Do I need to use the official form, or is a letter enough?
   While a signed and dated letter with all required details may be accepted, it’s safest to use the official Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Periodic Tenancy form provided by the Alberta government.
2. If I move out early, do I still have to pay for the full notice period?
   Yes, you are generally responsible for rent until the required notice period ends, even if you leave before then, unless your landlord agrees otherwise.
3. What if my landlord refuses to accept my notice?
   If your landlord challenges your notice, keep a copy and proof of delivery, then contact the RTDRS or a tenant support service for help.
4. Does my landlord have to do a final inspection?
   Yes, a move-out inspection is required under Alberta law. Learn more about inspections here.
5. Can I end my tenancy for any reason?
   Yes, tenants in periodic agreements can give notice for any reason, as long as they provide proper notice.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always use written notice and the official government form when ending a periodic tenancy.
• Double-check your required notice period based on your tenancy type.
• Keep a copy and proof of delivery for your records.

Properly ending your tenancy can help you avoid disputes and protect your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) (official tribunal in Alberta)
• Service Alberta: Residential Tenancies – government site for forms and guides
• Government guide: Ending a Tenancy (Tenants)
• Tenant advocates: Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre Tenancy Rights

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) sets the legal requirements for ending a periodic tenancy and giving proper notice.

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