Facing discrimination due to your family size when searching for or living in a rental property in Alberta can be stressful. It's important to know that Alberta's laws protect tenants and applicants from this type of unfair treatment, whether during the application process or after moving in. This article explains your rights, how to identify discrimination over family size, and what steps you can take to resolve these issues in Alberta.

Understanding Family Size Discrimination in Rentals

Family size discrimination—sometimes known as discrimination based on "source of income" or "family status"—occurs when a landlord treats renters unfairly due to the number or age of people in their household. Examples include a landlord refusing to rent to families with children, setting different rules for families, or evicting tenants for having a baby.

• Refusing applications from families with children
• Setting occupancy limits unfairly unrelated to bylaw or safety regulations
• Denying access to amenities or imposing extra charges for families

What The Law Says in Alberta

In Alberta, the Alberta Human Rights Act protects families from discrimination based on "family status" in housing. Landlords cannot refuse to rent, impose different rules, or evict tenants because of their children or family size, unless they have a legally valid reason (such as municipal bylaw occupancy limits).

Alberta tenancy law is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act ^[1]. While this Act does not directly address discrimination, it sets out the general responsibility of landlords to comply with other Alberta laws, including human rights protections.

Signs of Family Size Discrimination

• Rental ads that say "no children" or "adults only" (outside of designated seniors housing)
• Being denied a rental after revealing you have children
• Landlords making negative comments about family size or questioning plans for more children
• Being threatened with eviction after your family grows

It is important to document messages, ads, and conversations if you suspect discrimination is happening.

Steps to Take If You Face Family Size Discrimination

If you believe you're being discriminated against due to family size while renting in Alberta, here are practical steps:

• Document all interactions with the landlord, including emails, texts, and ads
• Review your lease for any clauses about occupancy or family status
• Gather evidence of different treatment, such as being refused a rental or given unreasonable rules

How to File a Human Rights Complaint in Alberta

The Alberta Human Rights Commission handles formal discrimination complaints related to housing. Here’s how you can submit a complaint:

• Form to Use: Complaint Form (Form A)
• How It’s Used: Use Form A if you believe you have been discriminated against (e.g., denied a rental or evicted) due to your family status. Complete the form with as much detail as possible, attach your evidence, and submit it to the Commission by mail or online.
• Official Source: Alberta Human Rights Commission

Other Support from Alberta's Dispute Resolution Service

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) offers tenants a process for disputes about their rights under the Residential Tenancies Act ^[1]. While RTDRS doesn't handle human rights discrimination directly, it can help if discrimination leads to eviction or breaches of your lease.

• Try resolving the matter with your landlord in writing first
• If communication fails and your tenancy or property is at risk, apply to RTDRS for a hearing

For tips on handling complaints or common rental problems, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Your Rights After Moving In

Once you've signed a lease, your rights continue. Landlords cannot change terms or threaten eviction solely because of changes in your family size, unless there's a legitimate, documented reason (like violating legal occupancy limits).

Learn more about what happens after your lease starts at What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Summary: Protecting Families in Alberta Rental Housing

Alberta law protects tenants and applicants from unfair treatment based on family status. If you face discrimination, file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission, and for tenancy disputes, consider the RTDRS process. Remember, support is available.

To explore more about local renting laws, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta. For those searching for family-friendly homes, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Size Discrimination

1. Is it legal for Alberta landlords to refuse to rent to families with children?
   No, refusing to rent to applicants because they have children is considered discrimination based on family status under the Alberta Human Rights Act.
2. What evidence should I collect if I experience discrimination?
   Document rental listings, written correspondence, and notes on conversations where family size was mentioned as a factor.
3. Can a landlord evict me if I have another child after moving in?
   Only if your family exceeds local occupancy limits set by bylaw or safety codes, but not otherwise.
4. Who handles family status discrimination complaints in Alberta housing?
   File a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
5. What steps should I take before making a formal complaint?
   Gather evidence and try discussing the concern with your landlord. If unresolved, submit a complaint form to the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Commission – discrimination complaints & information
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service – tenancy disputes
• Calgary and Edmonton Tenant Advocacy Groups – support & guidance
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act (official government page)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Alberta Human Rights Act

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