Facing Discrimination in Housing as a Tenant in Alberta

Discrimination in housing can be subtle or overt, and as a tenant or roommate seeker in Alberta, you have strong protections. Understanding your rights and knowing exactly what to do can help you keep your housing search or tenancy safe and fair. This guide covers how to spot discrimination, laws that protect you, official forms, action steps, and support resources strictly for tenants in Alberta.

Recognizing Housing Discrimination in Alberta

Discrimination in rental and shared housing can happen at any stage — from applying for an apartment to daily living with roommates. Under Alberta's laws, it is illegal for landlords or other tenants to discriminate based on:

• Race, colour, ancestry, or place of origin
• Religion or creed
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
• Familial or marital status
• Age
• Source of income
• Physical or mental disability

Examples include being denied a place because of your background, receiving different rules than other tenants, or harassment in a shared home environment. The Alberta Human Rights Act protects you in all these scenarios. Roommate relationships within private homes can sometimes have slightly different rules, but most rental situations are covered.

If You Experience Discrimination: Immediate Steps

If you suspect or experience discrimination — whether from a potential landlord, a current landlord, or a roommate — these steps can help protect your rights:

• Keep written records: Save messages, emails, and jot down details of what happened.
• Request written explanations: Ask landlords or housing providers for their reasons in writing if you are denied housing or subjected to different rules.
• Contact support: Alberta's Human Rights Commission and tenant advocacy groups can help you sort out next steps.

Taking early action helps strengthen your case if you decide to file a formal complaint later.

Filing a Complaint: Official Process and Forms

Alberta has a simple, tenant-friendly process for reporting discrimination. The main agency is the Alberta Human Rights Commission. Here is how the process works:

1. Submit a Human Rights Complaint

• Form Name: Complaint Form
• Where to find: Alberta Human Rights Commission — Complaint Form
• When to use: If you feel you have been discriminated against in any housing situation and want it officially investigated.
• Practical example: If a landlord refuses your application because of your ethnicity, fill out the form and gather any written proof or witness statements.

Once submitted, the Commission may attempt to resolve the issue through mediation or, if necessary, a formal investigation.

2. Applying for Rental Dispute Solutions

For issues that overlap with your residential tenancy (such as being evicted because of discrimination), Alberta tenants can also use the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). The main legislation overseeing rental rights is the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta).¹

Your Rights and Legal Protections

All Alberta tenants — including those in shared housing — are entitled to equal treatment. The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page provides more details on provincial protections, rent rules, and housing obligations. Review your rental agreement carefully as well. If you have concerns about the terms, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Summary: Key Protections Include

• Landlords and housing providers must avoid discrimination at all stages.
• Written reasons for denial can be requested.
• Filing a complaint is free and confidential.

Tips for Tenants in Shared Housing

Shared accommodations come with unique challenges. Be clear in roommate agreements and communicate concerns early. Discrimination by a head tenant (if they act as your landlord) is also covered.

For other common rental challenges, our article Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them offers practical advice.

Searching for a new, welcoming rental? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme — a trusted resource for tenants looking for fair, accessible housing options nationwide.

FAQs: Housing Discrimination in Alberta

1. What counts as discrimination when renting a place in Alberta?
   Any refusal or negative treatment based on your background, identity, family status, or protected grounds under the Alberta Human Rights Act, at any stage of your housing experience.
2. Can I be denied a rental because of my income source or age?
   No. Discrimination based on lawful source of income or age is illegal in nearly all Alberta rental situations.
3. Does human rights law protect me if I am looking for a roommate?
   Yes, in most rental and shared housing cases, human rights protections apply, but some small-scale arrangements (e.g., the homeowner is also resident) may differ.
4. What happens after I submit a complaint to the Alberta Human Rights Commission?
   The Commission may offer mediation. If not resolved, they will investigate and may proceed to a formal hearing if needed.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in Alberta?
   The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page is a great starting point.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Know your rights: Discrimination is illegal in most Alberta rental and roommate situations.
• Act quickly: Document incidents and seek advice as soon as discrimination occurs.
• Use official resources: File a formal complaint via the Alberta Human Rights Commission if needed.

Remember: Proactive steps make your case stronger and keep your housing experiences safer and fairer.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• File a Human Rights Complaint – Alberta Human Rights Commission
• Tenant Resources – Service Alberta Info Sheets
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• For confidential advice: Call the Commission at 780-427-7661 or find local tenant advocacy groups.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) – official legislation

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