Maintenance and Repairs: Tenant Rights in Alberta

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Alberta, you have a right to live in a property that is well-maintained, safe, and healthy. Alberta’s maintenance and repairs laws protect tenants and set clear duties for both landlords and renters. Whether it’s routine upkeep or urgent repairs, knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you resolve problems smoothly and ensure a safe living space.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs in Alberta Rentals?

Under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1], landlords have a legal duty to ensure their rental properties meet health and safety standards and remain in good repair. Tenants also have obligations to keep the rental reasonably clean and report issues promptly.

• Landlord responsibilities include:
  • Maintaining the structure, plumbing, heating, and appliances provided in working order
  • Making repairs for damage not caused by tenant neglect or abuse
  • Complying with municipal codes and health standards
• Tenant responsibilities include:
  • Keeping the rental clean and avoiding property damage
  • Reporting maintenance needs or hazards to the landlord as soon as possible
  • Notifying the landlord before attempting any repairs themselves

It’s important for both parties to understand the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to prevent misunderstandings and maintain a positive rental experience.

Health and Safety Protection

Alberta’s laws require landlords to provide rentals that are safe and free from hazards. This covers basics like heating, hot water, electrical, pest control, and locks.

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

Common Maintenance and Repair Issues in Alberta Rentals

Common problems tenants encounter include leaky plumbing, broken appliances provided by the landlord, persistent pest problems, mold or dampness, and heating failures during winter.

• Landlords must address urgent health or safety concerns promptly (e.g., no heat in winter, no running water).
• Routine or cosmetic repairs (like chipped paint or loose doorknobs) may take longer.

How issues are reported and resolved can impact your comfort—and your security deposit when you move out.

How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord

When a repair is needed, notify your landlord in writing. Describe the issue clearly and request a timeline for the repair. Keep copies for your records. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

• Document the problem with date-stamped photos where possible
• Send a written request (email or letter) to your landlord
• Keep a record of all communication

Official Forms: Alberta Maintenance and Repair Issues

• Application (Form L2): If your landlord refuses required repairs after notice, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) using their "Application for Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution" form. This form is used to request an official order for repairs or compensation.
  
  When to use it: If repeated written requests haven’t resolved the problem (especially for major repairs), submit this form along with your evidence (photos, correspondence). Download RTDRS Application Forms here.

This protects your rights without risking eviction for simply requesting necessary repairs.

Emergency vs. Routine Repairs

Not all repair issues are treated equally. Emergencies (no heat, major water leaks, electrical hazards) must be addressed immediately. Routine repairs may take longer, but your landlord should keep you informed of progress.

Learn more about your rights in extreme cases with Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

If Repairs Are Not Made: Tenant Remedies

If your landlord ignores proper repair requests:

• You may apply to the RTDRS for an order that requires repairs, permits you to pay less rent until fixed, or awards monetary compensation.
• You may be able to end your tenancy early in some cases. Seek legal advice or contact Service Alberta.

Entry for Repairs: Notice Requirements

Landlords in Alberta must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental for repairs, unless it’s an emergency. The notice should specify the time and purpose of entry.

FAQ: Alberta Maintenance and Repair Rights

1. What repairs must my landlord do in Alberta rentals?
   Landlords must keep the structure, plumbing, heating, appliances supplied, and safety features in good, working order. Cosmetic repairs may not be covered if they don’t affect your health or safety.
2. Can my landlord make me pay for repairs?
   Only if the damage was caused by you, your guests, or was the result of neglect. Ordinary wear and tear is the landlord’s responsibility.
3. How long must a landlord take to fix something?
   There is no exact timeline, but urgent issues (heat, water, electricity) must be handled right away. Routine repairs should be completed in a reasonable time.
4. What if my landlord refuses to fix a serious problem?
   If written requests are ignored, you can apply to the RTDRS for an order to compel repairs or seek compensation.
5. Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren’t done?
   No. Stopping rent without an order may risk eviction. Always seek an official solution such as RTDRS before withholding rent.

How To: When Your Landlord Ignores Repair Requests in Alberta

1. How do I collect evidence of a needed repair?
   Take clear, date-stamped photos or videos of the problem. Write down dates and details of when the issue started.
2. How do I make an official repair request?
   Write a detailed letter or email to your landlord describing the issue. Request repairs and keep a copy for your records.
3. How do I apply to the RTDRS if my landlord doesn’t fix things?
   Gather your evidence, complete the RTDRS Application Form, and submit it according to the instructions. Attend the hearing if scheduled.
4. How can I stay safe while waiting for repairs?
   If your unit is unsafe, contact Alberta Health Services or local authorities. Follow emergency protocols as needed.
5. How can I check if my landlord can enter my home?
   Your landlord must give 24 hours’ written notice for non-emergencies. In urgent situations, no notice is required to protect property or safety.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords are responsible for providing safe, well-maintained rental homes in Alberta.
• Tenants must report problems promptly and cooperate in the repair process.
• If your landlord neglects repairs, official forms and RTDRS applications can help resolve the issue.
• Know your rights and obligations: review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for more details.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): RTDRS official website
• Service Alberta – Consumer Contact Centre: 1-877-427-4088 (toll free)
• Alberta Health Services – Environmental Public Health: Request an inspection
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) – Official legislation overview

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