How to Request Repairs in Alberta: Tenant Process & Sample Letter

As a tenant in Alberta, knowing how to request repairs in your rental unit can help you maintain a safe and comfortable home. This guide explains the repair request process, provides a sample letter, outlines your rights and responsibilities, and offers clear action steps—all aligned with Alberta's current rental laws.

Your Rights and Landlord Obligations for Repairs in Alberta

In Alberta, landlords must keep rental homes in good repair and comply with health, safety, housing, and building standards. This includes fixing appliances, plumbing, heating, and ensuring the property is secure. As a tenant, you have both rights and responsibilities around repairs and maintenance.

• Landlords must make sure the rental is safe, clean, in good repair, and meets all legal standards.
• Tenants must keep the rental reasonably clean and avoid causing damage.

Alberta's key legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).^[1] For details on tenant and landlord responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

When Should You Request Repairs?

Request repairs if you notice any of the following in your Alberta rental unit:

• Broken appliances supplied by the landlord (e.g., stove, fridge)
• Leaking plumbing, no hot water, or heating problems
• Broken locks, windows, or doors affecting security
• Hazards such as mold, pest infestations, or electrical issues
• Deteriorating stairs, handrails, or other safety risks

Unsure if your concern is urgent? Alberta law separates emergencies (like flooding or severe heating loss) from routine maintenance. To understand the difference, refer to Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

The Process: How to Request Repairs in Alberta

Follow these steps to request repairs legally and efficiently:

• Document the problem (photos, dates, details).
• Contact your landlord in writing with a clear repair request.
• Retain a copy of your request for your records.
• Allow a reasonable time for the landlord to respond (usually within 7–10 days unless urgent).
• If the issue is an emergency (e.g., no heat in winter), contact your landlord immediately by phone or text, followed by written notice.

If repairs aren't made within a reasonable time, you may be able to apply to the provincial tribunal.

Sample Letter: Repair Request

When writing to your landlord, include the date, your address, a description of the issue, and a reasonable timeframe for repairs. For example:

Subject: Request for Repairs at [Your Address]
Date: [YYYY-MM-DD]

Dear [Landlord's Name],

I am writing to formally request repairs to [describe the issue, e.g., "the heating system in my apartment is not working"]. This issue began on [date]. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords are required to maintain the property in good repair.

Please let me know when the repair will be addressed. I would appreciate a response within [reasonable time, e.g., "7 days"].

Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone/Email]

Official Forms for Repair Disputes

If the landlord does not respond or refuses the repair, tenants may apply for a remedy through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).^[2]

• RTDRS Application Form (Form 7): Use this to make a formal complaint or claim regarding repairs. Download the latest RTDRS forms here.

Example: If your landlord does not fix a broken heater after multiple requests, complete Form 7, attach evidence, and submit it online or in person to RTDRS. The Service reviews your case and may order your landlord to complete necessary repairs or grant another suitable remedy.

Tips for a Smooth Repair Process

• Keep copies of all communications and evidence.
• Be clear, polite, and specific in requests.
• Do not withhold rent for incomplete repairs—this can lead to eviction proceedings.

For those searching for a new home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for up-to-date listings and convenient search tools.

Want to review Alberta's full tenant and landlord rights? Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a helpful summary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Repairs in Alberta

1. Can I hire a repair service myself if my landlord doesn't respond?
   In most cases, you should not arrange or deduct repair costs unless authorized by the tribunal. Always get written consent or proceed through RTDRS before taking such steps.
2. How quickly must a landlord respond to emergency repairs in Alberta?
   Landlords must act immediately when problems threaten health or safety, such as flooding, no heat in winter, or power outages.
3. Can a landlord evict me for requesting repairs?
   No, requesting repairs is a protected right. Retaliatory eviction is not permitted under Alberta law.
4. Should I continue paying rent if repairs are not done?
   Yes. Never withhold rent for incomplete repairs, as this may result in eviction. File a complaint through RTDRS instead.
5. Where can I get help with unresolved repair issues?
   Contact Alberta RTDRS or the local Service Alberta office for tenant support and legal information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Document issues and make repair requests in writing.
• Follow up and allow reasonable time for your landlord to respond.
• If repairs are not done, apply to RTDRS using official forms instead of withholding rent.

Take a proactive approach to protect your right to a safe, well-maintained home by following the correct repair request process.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – File applications and get legal help
• Alberta Government – Landlords & Tenants – Guides and resources
• Tenant advocacy: Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta). Read the full legislation here.
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Official RTDRS information.

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