Maintenance & Repairs FAQ for Alberta Tenants

Maintenance and repairs are a key part of living comfortably and safely in your Alberta rental home. Whether you have a leaky faucet or a broken furnace, understanding who’s responsible and what steps to take makes all the difference. This guide answers frequent Alberta tenant questions about repairs, reporting problems, health and safety, and your rights, so you can feel secure in your rental.

Your Rights & Responsibilities for Repairs in Alberta

Both tenants and landlords have maintenance roles under Alberta law. Landlords must make sure rental homes meet health, safety, and housing standards and that repairs are made on time. Tenants must report repairs needed and keep the unit reasonably clean during their tenancy.

• Landlord’s duties: Keep the property in good repair, fit for living, and compliant with safety codes
• Tenant’s duties: Notify the landlord of needed routine or emergency repairs, avoid causing damage, and keep the home sanitary

For a deeper breakdown, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Does Alberta Law Say?

Maintenance and repair rules in Alberta are set by the Residential Tenancies Act¹. Disputes and complaints are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) and the Courts.

Reporting Repair Issues: What Should Tenants Do?

If you notice a problem in your rental unit (like a leaking pipe, broken window, or pest issue), take these steps:

• Notify your landlord or property manager in writing as soon as possible.
  (A text or email works, but written requests are easier to document in case of dispute.)
• Explain the issue, location, and how it’s affecting you.
• Request a timeline for repairs—urgent problems (like no heat in winter or major leaks) should get prompt attention.

If you have a pest issue, you may also want to read Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

Health and Safety–Related Repairs

Urgent repairs that affect health or safety (such as broken heating in winter, unsafe electrical, or sewer backups) must be addressed right away.
Tenants should act quickly and may call Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health for inspections if needed.

For more information, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Common Maintenance & Repair Questions in Alberta

• Who pays for what repairs?
• What if my landlord won’t fix something?
• Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
• How do I file a formal complaint?
• Which forms are involved?

Landlords must pay for repairs due to normal wear and tear, while tenants pay for damages caused by neglect or accidents. Withholding rent for repairs without legal process can lead to eviction—always follow proper channels.

Official Forms for Alberta Tenants

• Application for Repair Order at the RTDRS
  When to use: If your landlord refuses or delays repairs, you can file for an order compelling them to fix the issue.
  How: Fill out the RTDRS Application Form (Form 6 for Tenants). Submit it online or in person, with evidence such as photos, written requests, and communications.
• Tenant Complaint Form to Environmental Public Health
  When to use: If repair delays put your health at risk, contact Alberta Health Services and file the Complaint Form. An inspector may visit your unit.

Examples: When to Use Which Form

• Mold growth or broken furnace in winter: If landlord is unresponsive, use the RTDRS Application for Repair Order.
• Unsafe air, water, or major sanitation problems: File a complaint with Environmental Public Health.

In some cases, tenants can request rent abatement or compensation if repairs are delayed. The RTDRS can order this if appropriate.

FAQ: Maintenance & Repairs for Tenants in Alberta

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores my maintenance request?
   If your landlord does not respond after a reasonable time and you made your request in writing, gather your documentation and file an application with the RTDRS for a repair order. If the issue is health or safety related, you can also contact Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health.
2. Who pays for repairs in a rental unit?
   Landlords are responsible for repairs due to normal wear and tear or aging systems. Tenants are responsible for damages that result from neglect, misuse, or accidents.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
   No, Alberta tenants should never withhold rent. Use the RTDRS process to resolve issues, as withholding rent can make you vulnerable to eviction.
4. What are examples of emergency repairs?
   Major leaks, loss of heat (especially in winter), electrical hazards, and sewer backups are considered emergencies. Notify your landlord immediately and if there’s no timely response, consider filing a complaint or RTDRS application.
5. How long does a landlord have to make repairs?
   There’s no set timeframe, but Alberta law says repairs must be completed within a reasonable time. Emergencies require prompt action, while non-urgent repairs should be done as soon as possible.

How To: File for a Repair Order as an Alberta Tenant

1. How do I formally request repairs in Alberta?
   Write a clear, dated notice to your landlord describing the issue. Keep a copy for your records, and request a written response with a repair timeline.
2. How do I apply to the RTDRS for repairs?
   Gather all written requests, photos, and evidence. Complete the RTDRS Application for Repair Order and submit it online or at a Service Alberta office. Attach your documents and pay any associated fee.
3. How do I file a health and safety complaint?
   If your unit poses a health or safety risk, file a report using the Alberta Health Services online complaint form. An inspector will follow up if needed.
4. How do I track repair requests?
   Keep a log of all communications with your landlord—including repair dates, requests, and any actions taken—for your own records and possible evidence at the RTDRS.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Landlords handle repairs due to normal wear and tear or essential systems; tenants must care for the unit and report issues.
• Document all requests and use official complaint processes if repairs are delayed.
• Urgent health or safety repairs require immediate reporting, and formal complaints can speed up action.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Act — Alberta
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Alberta Health Services: Tenant Complaints
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta
• Looking for a new rental? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

1. Read the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act
2. Learn about the RTDRS
3. Submit a health and safety complaint