Lease Agreements for New Tenants in Alberta: Your Essential Guide

Starting out as a new tenant in Alberta can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with lease agreements and your legal rights. Understanding rental contracts, deposits, forms, and responsibilities will help you avoid common issues and make your experience as smooth as possible. This essential guide breaks down lease agreements step by step for Alberta tenants, so you can feel confident in your rental decisions.

What Is a Lease Agreement in Alberta?

A lease agreement (sometimes called a “residential tenancy agreement”) is a legal contract between you and your landlord outlining the terms for your rental. In Alberta, lease agreements can be written, verbal, or implied through conduct, but a written agreement is strongly recommended as it clearly spells out expectations, rent, duration, and other rental rules.

• Fixed-term lease: Has set start/end dates (e.g., one year)
• Periodic lease: Renews automatically (e.g., month-to-month)
• Both fixed-term and periodic leases are legal in Alberta

Your agreement should always include:

• Names of the tenant(s) and landlord(s)
• Rental address
• Amount of rent, due date, and how to pay
• Amount of security deposit
• The lease type (fixed-term or periodic)
• Which utilities or services are included
• Rules for ending the tenancy (notice requirements)

Legal Protections and Governing Law

Rentals in Alberta are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This law sets out tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities, including security deposits, notice periods, and eviction rules. Always ensure your lease follows the RTA—if it doesn’t, the Act prevails over any unfair lease terms.^[1]

Key Steps Before and After Signing

• Carefully review your lease agreement before signing and ask about anything unclear.
• Ensure all blanks are filled in, particularly around rent and deposit amounts.
• Retain a signed paper or digital copy for your records.
• Arrange for a move-in inspection with your landlord.

Security Deposits and Move-In Inspections

Landlords in Alberta can require a security deposit, but it cannot exceed one month’s rent. Before moving in, your landlord must conduct a written inspection with you present to record the condition of the rental. This process protects both parties in case of damage disputes when you move out.^[2]

Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Important Forms and Documents for Alberta Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Agreement Form: Alberta does not have a single mandatory lease form, but a written agreement should contain all the details outlined above.
• Inspection Report Form (Condition Report): Required at move-in and move-out. Find the official form here: Residential Tenancy Inspection Report.
  When used: Documenting the property's condition before you receive keys and after you move out. Example: Completing the walkthrough with your landlord on move-in day prevents future deposit disputes if damage is claimed.
• Notice to Terminate (14-Day Notice): Used by landlords or tenants to end the lease for cause. Access official notice templates and instructions: Ending a Tenancy - Government of Alberta.
  When used: If a tenant breaks the lease, or the landlord doesn't uphold their duties, formal written notice can be given by either party.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both you and your landlord have important rights and obligations. As a tenant, you must:

• Pay rent on time
• Keep the unit reasonably clean
• Not damage the property or disturb neighbors
• Follow any reasonable rules (e.g., smoking, pets) noted in your agreement

Landlords must:

• Maintain the property in a good state of repair
• Respect your privacy (24 hours’ notice to enter, except in emergencies)
• Follow legal notice requirements for evictions, rent increases, or ending the lease

See further detail in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

After You Sign: What Comes Next?

Once your tenancy begins, you have several considerations:

• Pay rent as agreed by the due date every month
• Complete your move-in inspection and save a copy
• Know how to request repairs or handle issues during your lease
• Understand the process for renewing, ending, or transferring your lease

Get more insights in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

Disputes between tenants and landlords, such as disagreements over deposits or repairs, can be resolved through Alberta's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). The RTDRS offers a faster and less formal process than court and is suited for most common rental disagreements. Both tenants and landlords can apply online or submit forms in person, and decisions are binding.^[3]

For a basic summary of Alberta tenancy law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

FAQ: Lease Agreements for Alberta Tenants

1. Do I need a written lease in Alberta?
   A lease can be verbal or written, but a written agreement protects both parties and is highly recommended. Always keep a copy for your records.
2. How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
   In Alberta, the security deposit cannot be more than one month’s rent.
3. Is my landlord required to do a move-in inspection?
   Yes, both move-in and move-out inspections are mandatory, and both sides should sign the report.
4. What happens if I want to end my lease early?
   If you need to leave before your lease expires, you must provide written notice and may be responsible for penalties unless you have legal reasons. Always check your agreement and the RTA.
5. Who do I contact if I have a dispute with my landlord?
   The RTDRS can help with most landlord-tenant issues in Alberta.

How To: Key Actions for New Tenants in Alberta

1. How do I complete a move-in inspection?
   Arrange a walkthrough with your landlord on move-in day. Use the official inspection form, note the condition of each room, and have both parties sign. Keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I pay my security deposit and rent safely?
   Pay through traceable methods (like e-transfer or cheque), get a receipt, and don’t pay cash unless you must. Always keep written proof of payment.
3. How do I serve notice to end my lease?
   Fill out the appropriate notice form, give it to your landlord as required by law, and keep a copy. Notice periods vary depending on your lease type.
4. How do I apply to the RTDRS for help with a dispute?
   Gather your documents, fill in the application form on the official government website, and submit your case. You can do this online or in person.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA): Full legislation
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Tenancy dispute applications and FAQs
• CPLEA: Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta: Plain-language guides and downloadable forms
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) - Alberta government
2. Security deposit requirements in Alberta
3. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - Government of Alberta

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy