Landlord’s Application for Termination & Unpaid Rent: Alberta Guide

Evictions Alberta published June 27, 2025 Flag of Alberta

If you've been served with a landlord's application to terminate your tenancy and collect unpaid rent in Alberta, it's important to know what this form means and what you can do next. Alberta’s rental laws give both landlords and tenants certain rights and responsibilities—so understanding the process helps you protect your interests and prepare an effective response.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes in Alberta?

In Alberta, residential tenancy disputes—including eviction and rent claims—are overseen by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) and the Alberta Court system. Most landlords apply to the RTDRS for faster, more affordable resolutions, but some may use the Courts, especially for larger claims.[1]

Key Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

Your rights and obligations as a tenant are set out under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This law governs how rental agreements are ended, how unpaid rent is dealt with, and what procedures landlords must follow regarding eviction actions.[2]

What Is the Landlord's Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent?

When a tenant falls behind on rent, a landlord in Alberta can apply for an order to end the tenancy and recover money owed. This is usually done through one of the following methods:

  • Filing an application and supporting Affidavit with the RTDRS or Provincial Court
  • Serving required notice documents to the tenant

The most common forms include:

  • Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy (no official form number): Landlords must typically serve this notice to you first if you are behind in rent. This gives the tenant 14 days to pay rent owed or move out. View official template.
  • RTDRS Application Form: The landlord may use this to formally apply for an order to terminate your tenancy and seek unpaid rent once the notice period expires without payment. See all RTDRS forms.

For example, if you missed your May rent, your landlord would likely give you the 14-day Notice to Terminate. If you do not move or pay by the deadline, they can file an RTDRS Application to Evict and ask for a monetary judgment for the unpaid rent at the same time.

What Happens After the Landlord Applies?

Once the landlord has applied to the RTDRS or Court, you will be served with a hearing package. This package contains:

  • The landlord’s application and supporting documents (including proof of unpaid rent, rental agreement, and notices served)
  • The time, date, and method of the hearing (often held by telephone or video)
  • Instructions on how you can respond and participate

It’s essential to read all paperwork carefully, gather any evidence (like proof of payment or communication with your landlord), and prepare for your hearing date. At the hearing, the Dispute Resolution Officer (or Judge) will decide if the tenancy should end and whether you owe unpaid rent.

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Your Rights and Next Steps

If you receive a termination application:

  • You have the right to appear at the hearing and explain your side
  • You can present evidence, such as payment receipts or proof of a landlord’s failure to meet their own obligations
  • You may challenge an order if you believe the rules were not followed
If you resolve the rent issue before the hearing (e.g., you pay what is owed), notify your landlord and the RTDRS in writing as soon as possible—your landlord may withdraw the application.

Defending Your Tenancy in Alberta

Tenants sometimes have legitimate reasons for not paying full rent—such as if important repairs were ignored. However, it’s important to never simply stop paying rent. Instead, try to resolve disputes by communicating in writing.

Understanding your Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained can help you advocate for yourself and avoid unintentional breaches of your agreement.

If you are facing an order to terminate and are unsure what to do, consider seeking legal advice or support from a tenant advocacy group. You can also learn about Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know if rising costs are affecting your ability to pay rent.

Relevant Forms and Resources

Summary

Landlords in Alberta seeking to end a tenancy and recover unpaid rent must follow the guidelines in the Residential Tenancies Act. This involves giving tenants notice and a fair chance to pay arrears before applying to the RTDRS or Court for an eviction and money order.

If you’d like to learn more about your provincial rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta. To browse new rental options, Explore rental homes in your area today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What should I do if I receive a Notice to Terminate for unpaid rent in Alberta?
    Pay the overdue rent in full before the notice expires, or contact your landlord to discuss other options. If you cannot pay, prepare for the hearing if your landlord applies for termination.
  2. Can my landlord evict me immediately for unpaid rent?
    No. Your landlord must serve you with a 14-day notice and, if you do not pay or vacate, apply for termination with the RTDRS or Court. Only an authorized order can require you to leave.
  3. Do I have to move out on the notice date?
    You must move by the date on a valid eviction order from the RTDRS or Court, not just the initial notice from your landlord.
  4. Who can I contact for help if I'm facing eviction or a hearing?
    Contact the RTDRS, legal clinics, or local tenant support organizations for guidance and advice (see resources below).
  5. Will unpaid rent appear on my credit record?
    If the landlord obtains a court judgment, the debt may be reported to credit agencies and affect your credit history.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), Alberta: official website
  2. Residential Tenancies Act, Alberta: full text of the legislation
  3. Service Alberta: Renting in Alberta Info and Forms: official government forms

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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