If you're a tenant in Alberta facing sudden rent increases, unexpected eviction notices, or other negative treatment after making a complaint or asking for necessary repairs, you might be experiencing landlord retaliation—often called "revenge actions." Knowing how to properly document these actions is key to protecting your rights and making a strong case if you need to escalate your concerns.

Understanding Landlord Retaliation in Alberta

Landlord retaliation occurs when a landlord takes negative action against a tenant—such as ending a tenancy, raising rent, reducing services, or making threats—because the tenant exercised their legal rights. Examples include:

• Requesting repairs or essential maintenance
• Filing a formal complaint to the landlord or a government authority
• Joining or organizing a tenant association

Under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)^[1], retaliatory actions are not legal and tenants have options to respond.

What Counts as a Revenge Action?

Common retaliatory actions may include:

• Serving an eviction notice right after you file a complaint
• Increasing rent suddenly and significantly following a dispute
• Refusing necessary repairs or reducing provided services
• Intimidation or threats after you assert your rights

Why Documentation Matters

Solid documentation is the foundation of any complaint process. Having clear evidence will help you:

• Prove your case to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or in court
• Protect yourself if the dispute escalates
• Support your credibility as a tenant

How to Document Revenge Actions

Take the following actions to build a timeline of events and provide evidence if you need to escalate the issue.

1. Keep a Written Record

• Write down each event, date, time, and what happened. Be factual—avoid opinions unless clearly marked.
• Record any conversations about complaints, repairs, or tenancy issues.
• Save all written communications with your landlord (texts, emails, letters, notices).

2. Gather Evidence

• Take dated photos or videos of property conditions, repairs, posted notices, or damages.
• Keep copies of relevant documents (repair requests, formal complaints, rent receipts, eviction notices).
• Note names and contact information of any witnesses (neighbours, other tenants).

3. Use Official Forms

If you suspect retaliation, you may need to formally apply for a remedy through Alberta’s RTDRS or provincial court. Two key forms include:

• RTDRS Application Form (RTDRS-1): Use this form to apply for dispute resolution if you believe your landlord has acted in retaliation.
  Download the RTDRS Application Form.
  Example: If you receive an eviction notice shortly after requesting repairs, you would complete this form to challenge that eviction.
• Notice of Termination (Form 2 or 3): If you need to end your lease due to a serious breach (such as persistent retaliation), you may use this form, but always seek legal advice before doing so. Access official termination forms.

4. File a Complaint or Dispute

After gathering your evidence, your next step may be to file with the RTDRS or provincial court. Generally, you must:

• Complete and submit the RTDRS Application Form
• Submit supporting documents (rent receipts, notices, records, photos)
• Attend a telephone or in-person hearing and present your evidence

For practical advice on documenting property issues and handling complaints, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Landlords and tenants in Alberta both have legal duties under the RTA. Learning more about these can help you identify when an action is not just "unfair" but also unlawful.

For an overview of tenant and landlord duties—including repair and complaint responsibilities—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a full rundown of Alberta-specific laws and a summary of key rental facts, review the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page.

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FAQ: Alberta Tenants and Documenting Revenge Actions

1. What should I write in my documentation if I suspect retaliation?
   Describe what happened, when, the people involved, and attach any messages, photos, or relevant documents.
2. Is it legal for my landlord to evict me for complaining about repairs?
   No, the Residential Tenancies Act prohibits landlords from taking action against you for enforcing your rights. If you suspect retaliation, document everything and consider filing a complaint with the RTDRS.
3. Can I use text messages and emails as evidence?
   Yes, save all written communication. Screen captures and printed copies help show a timeline of events.
4. Where can I apply if my landlord is retaliating against me?
   Applications can be made to Alberta’s RTDRS with the right forms and supporting evidence.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Document every event and communication if you suspect landlord retaliation
• Use official forms and be thorough with evidence
• Know your legal rights under Alberta’s RTA

Prepared and detailed documentation gives you the best chance to resolve disputes successfully.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Provides dispute resolution for tenant-landlord issues in Alberta.
• Alberta Government: Landlords and Tenants: Official information and guides on tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Legal Information: Call 1-877-427-4088 for free advice.
• Local tenant advocacy offices: Some cities have tenant advisory boards for support with tricky cases.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)

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