Leases & Agreements Checklist for Alberta Tenants

Entering into a rental agreement is a big step for any Alberta tenant. Knowing your rights, responsibilities, and what to look for before you sign can help you avoid disputes and ensure you’re protected throughout your tenancy. Use this comprehensive leases and agreements checklist tailored for Alberta to help you start your rental journey with confidence.

Key Documents and Information Before You Sign

Whether you’re starting your first tenancy or moving to a new rental, these documents are essential to review before signing any agreement:

• Rental Application: Used by landlords to screen tenants but is not a binding contract.
• Residential Tenancy Agreement: This is the formal lease. Ensure the agreement includes all important terms: rent amount, due date, deposit details, names of all tenants and landlord, address, term (fixed or periodic), and key rules (pets, smoking, guests).
• Move-In Inspection Report (Form): Required by Alberta law for all new tenancies. It documents the condition of the rental at the start. You'll complete it together with your landlord.
  Always get a copy signed by both parties and keep it for your records!
• Tenant’s Insurance: Not required by law but often recommended and required by individual leases. It protects your personal belongings against damage or theft.

For more, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Rental Deposits and Fees

Alberta law limits the security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) to no more than one month’s rent, and sets clear rules on how it must be handled, including interest.

• Ensure the deposit amount and terms are clearly listed in the agreement.
• Landlords must provide a receipt for any deposit paid.
• Deposits must be held in a trust account and returned with interest unless there’s a valid reason for deductions (such as damage).

For more details about deposits, review Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Required Alberta Forms and When to Use Them

• Residential Tenancy Agreement: No universal standard, but it must comply with Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Many landlords use forms available from Service Alberta.
• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Report: Mandatory under the Residential Tenancies Act. See instructions and sample reports from the Service Alberta sample. Complete this at both move-in and move-out to protect your deposit.
• Notice to Terminate (Form 1): Used by tenants to end periodic tenancies. You must give at least one full tenancy period of notice (e.g., one month for monthly leases). Download the form and instructions from Service Alberta: Ending a Tenancy.
• Application to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Use this if you need to resolve a dispute without going to court. See how to apply to the RTDRS.

Always use the official government forms for notices and disputes to ensure your actions are valid and enforceable.

Checklist for Reviewing Your Lease

Go through this checklist to ensure nothing important is missed before signing:

• Verify all parties’ names and contact details
• Check rental amount, payment method, and due dates
• Read rules about pets, smoking, and guests
• Understand what’s included (utilities, parking, appliances)
• Review the deposit amount, conditions for return, and interest details
• Get a signed copy of the move-in inspection report
• Confirm if tenant’s insurance is required
• Ensure you understand how to end the lease and required notice periods

After Signing: Key Steps and Next Actions

Once the agreement is complete, there are some important steps to protect yourself:

• Participate in the initial inspection and get a copy of the completed report.
• Organize utilities and tenant’s insurance, if applicable.
• Store all documents (lease, inspection, deposit receipts) somewhere safe.
• Review What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for a detailed breakdown of your next steps and ongoing responsibilities.

What to Know About Rent Payments and Rules

Paying your rent on time is essential. Make sure you:

• Understand the preferred payment method and have written proof of payment.
• Know your legal rights if facing unexpected financial issues or a dispute.

For tips and your legal rights about rent, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Which Tribunal Resolves Tenancy Disputes in Alberta?

Most residential tenancy disputes in Alberta are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) and, in some circumstances, through the Alberta Courts. The RTDRS provides a faster, less formal system for tenants and landlords to resolve issues like security deposit returns, rent disputes, and repairs.

Your Rights and Protections Under the Law

Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act outlines your key protections, including notice rules, responsibilities for repairs, and how disputes are resolved. Always refer to this legislation if you’re unsure about your rights or obligations.

Looking for your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for your move.

FAQ: Alberta Tenants and Rental Agreements

1. What should I check before signing a lease in Alberta?
   Carefully review the lease terms, confirm the deposit amount is legal, ask about utilities and extra fees, ensure you receive copies of all documents (including the inspection report), and understand the notice period for ending the lease.
2. Is a written lease required in Alberta?
   No, the law does not require a written lease, but a written agreement is highly recommended for your protection. Verbal leases are legal, but harder to prove if disputes arise.
3. How much security deposit can a landlord charge?
   The maximum security deposit allowed is one month’s rent. It must be placed in a trust account and returned with interest unless there are allowable deductions.
4. Can my landlord change the lease terms after I sign?
   Not without your agreement until the lease term ends. Any changes must be discussed and agreed to in writing for fixed-term leases.
5. Where can I get help if I have a problem with my lease?
   Contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or Service Alberta. Tenant support agencies and legal clinics in Alberta also offer free advice.

How To: Protect Yourself When Signing a Lease in Alberta

1. How do I complete the move-in inspection report properly?
   Arrange a time with your landlord for a walkthrough on move-in day. Take photos, list all issues, and ensure both of you sign the report and keep a copy.
2. How can I verify that my deposit is being handled legally?
   Request a receipt and ask for details about the trust account. Alberta law requires written receipts and proper handling of all deposits.
3. How do I end a periodic (month-to-month) lease?
   Fill out the Notice to Terminate (Form 1), give at least one full tenancy period of notice, and keep proof of delivery to your landlord.
4. How do I resolve a dispute if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
   Apply to the RTDRS with your move-in and move-out inspection reports and other documentation.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Use official forms and make sure all agreements are clear and in writing.
• Complete inspection reports with your landlord at move-in and move-out.
• Keep copies of everything—this is your best protection in a dispute.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Government: Residential Tenancies – General information and forms
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – File a tenancy dispute online
• Legal clinics:
  • Calgary Legal Guidance
  • Central Alberta Community Legal Clinic
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a full summary of Alberta-specific rights.

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^[1] See the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act (current, Government of Alberta).

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