Landlord’s Notice to Terminate Periodic Tenancy in Alberta Explained

If you rent on a month-to-month or week-to-week basis in Alberta, your landlord must use a specific process to end your tenancy. The Landlord’s Notice to Tenant to Terminate Periodic Tenancy form is a legal document used by landlords to give tenants official notice of ending a periodic rental agreement. Understanding how this notice works protects your rights and helps you plan your next steps.

What Is a Periodic Tenancy?

A periodic tenancy means you rent without a fixed end date—most commonly on a month-to-month or week-to-week agreement. These arrangements automatically renew unless either the landlord or tenant provides proper notice to end the agreement. Alberta’s rules are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)¹.

For a more detailed breakdown of rights and responsibilities, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Landlord’s Notice to Tenant to Terminate Periodic Tenancy Form (Alberta)

The official form a landlord must use is called the "Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy", and you can find it on the website of the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or through Alberta.ca. The landlord must follow specific rules for a notice to be valid:

• Written Notice: The notice must be in writing and delivered properly.
• Proper Timeframe: Landlords must give:
• At least three full tenancy months’ notice for month-to-month periodic tenancies
• At least one full tenancy week’s notice for week-to-week tenancies
• State the End Date: The notice must clearly say the date your tenancy ends.
• Service: Notice can be hand-delivered, posted at your residence, or sent by registered mail.

Access the official form and information here: Ending a tenancy in Alberta (Government of Alberta).

When Can a Landlord Use This Notice?

Landlords can end a periodic tenancy for reasons such as:

• The landlord or their close family intends to move in
• The property is sold and the new owner or their family will occupy it
• The building will be demolished or converted to another use
• Other legal reasons stated in the Residential Tenancies Act

It’s important to note that Alberta landlords cannot end a periodic tenancy without a valid reason unless proper notice and process is followed.

What Tenants Should Do If They Receive a Termination Notice

If you've received a Landlord’s Notice to Terminate Periodic Tenancy, don't panic. Here are some steps to take:

• Read the Notice Carefully: Make sure all required details are included—such as reason, termination date, and notice period.
• Check Validity: Confirm the landlord gave you enough notice as per the law.
• Ask for Clarification: If the reason isn’t clear or forms are missing details, ask your landlord for clarification in writing.
• Seek Advice: If you believe the notice is not valid or you have questions, contact the RTDRS or local tenant advocacy services.
• Prepare to Move: Once the notice period ends, you are expected to vacate the rental unit.

If You Disagree With the Notice

If you believe the notice is not valid, you may file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). This applies, for example, if the notice period is too short, there’s no valid reason, or you believe the reason is false.

Additional details about landlord and tenant obligations can be found at Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens to Your Rental Deposit?

When moving out due to a notice, your landlord must return your security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) minus any allowable deductions. Learn about your rights at Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to help plan your move if you need new housing.

How to Respond to a Landlord's Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy

• Read your notice and check dates and reasons.
• Confirm your required move-out date based on notice period.
• Prepare for your move and consider scheduling an inspection with your landlord. Keep communication in writing wherever possible.
• If you dispute the notice, file with the RTDRS promptly.

These steps help you stay organized and protect your rights during the end of your tenancy. If you are unclear about obligations after the rental agreement ends, review How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

FAQ: Alberta Tenant Rights When Your Landlord Ends a Periodic Tenancy

1. How much notice must my landlord give to end a month-to-month tenancy in Alberta?
   Most landlords must provide at least three full tenancy months' notice in writing before ending a month-to-month periodic tenancy.
2. What if I think the landlord’s notice to end my tenancy is not valid?
   You may dispute it through the RTDRS before the end date. Gather documentation and act quickly.
3. Do I have to move out if I receive a notice?
   Yes, unless you successfully dispute the notice and an order is made in your favour. Otherwise, you must vacate by the date stated in the notice.
4. Does my landlord need a reason to end my periodic tenancy?
   Generally yes—acceptable reasons are listed in the Residential Tenancies Act.
5. How do I get my security deposit back when I move out?
   If you leave the unit in good condition, your landlord must return your deposit, less any allowable deductions, within 10 days of moving out. See How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Landlords must use the official form and required notice periods to end a periodic tenancy.
• Always review notices for validity and seek help if you have concerns about your rights.
• Document everything in writing and prepare to move or dispute if necessary.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) Alberta: File or respond to disputes online.
• Government of Alberta: Renting and you
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA): Guides and info for tenants
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act: Full text and official details
2. RTDRS: Dispute Resolution and forms
3. Government of Alberta: Ending a tenancy in Alberta

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