Moving into a new rental only to find existing damage is stressful. Tenants in Alberta should know how to protect their rights, document problems, and ask landlords for repairs or compensation. This page explains practical steps: conducting a careful initial inspection, photographing and keeping records, completing and serving official repair or dispute forms, and when to seek help from the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service. You'll also find guidance on deposits, timelines for reporting issues, and how to prepare for possible hearings. The tone is practical and supportive so tenants can act confidently, avoid misunderstandings, and preserve security deposit rights while addressing habitability or safety concerns.
What to do first
Begin by taking calm, organised steps so you can resolve problems without risking your tenancy. If you want a checklist for inspecting every room, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
- Inspect every room, closet and common area within 24 hours of moving in and note any damage or missing items.
- Photograph and, where helpful, video all damage with dates and descriptive filenames; back up copies off-site or in the cloud.
- Provide written notice to your landlord describing each problem and the repair you request; keep a dated copy for your records.
- Review the security deposit receipt and rules about deductions; see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for examples of documentation landlords often require.
Documenting damage and requesting repairs
Good documentation makes it easier to get repairs or to win a dispute. Include clear photos, a short written list of problems, and copies of any communications. When you send your repair request, use email or a signed letter so you have proof it was sent and received.
- Label photos by room and date and keep a single organized folder for all files.
- State the requested repair, a reasonable deadline, and ask for written confirmation of a repair plan.
- If you call, follow up with a short email summarizing the call and attach screenshots or photos.
Official forms, tribunal and legislation
The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is the tribunal that hears many tenancy disputes in Alberta[1]. The province's Residential Tenancies Act sets the rules landlords and tenants must follow, including deposit and repair obligations[2]. For deposit specifics and official guidance, review Alberta government resources about security deposits and receipts[3].
- RTDRS application (Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service application): used to request a hearing when you cannot resolve serious unresolved damage or unreasonable deposit deductions. Example: you requested repairs in writing, landlord did not act, and essential services remain unsafe — file the RTDRS application and attach your photos and copies of notices.
- Written repair request or landlord notice (no standard provincial form required): tenants should use a dated letter or email to ask for repairs and keep proof of delivery. Example: send an email describing the problem, attach photos, and request repairs within a reasonable time.
- Security deposit receipt and inventory: landlords must provide a receipt for a deposit; keep that receipt and move-in inventory to contest improper deductions later.
When to consider filing a dispute
Filing with RTDRS makes sense when repairs are essential to habitability, the landlord refuses reasonable fixes, or when deposit deductions are unfair. If a repair affects health or safety, raise the issue immediately and consider applying to RTDRS if the landlord does not act promptly.
- Act promptly: document and notify the landlord right away and keep copies to show you gave reasonable notice.
- Complete the RTDRS application if informal steps fail; attach your evidence and a short timeline of events.
- Attend the hearing with organized evidence: photos, dated messages, receipts, and witness statements if available.
FAQ
- Can I withhold rent if my new rental has damage?
- Withholding rent is risky and can lead to eviction; instead, request repairs in writing and use RTDRS if the landlord refuses to fix serious problems.
- How long do I have to report damage after moving in?
- Report damage as soon as possible. Prompt written notice and photographic evidence help protect your rights and your security deposit.
- What evidence is most useful at a hearing?
- Clear dated photos, a move-in inventory, copies of written repair requests, receipts, and any witness statements are very helpful.
How-To
- Inspect and record all damage within 24 hours of moving in.
- Photograph and label evidence, then back up images off-site.
- Send a clear written repair request to the landlord and keep a dated copy.
- Check deposit rules and keep receipts; request return with interest if applicable when you move out.
- Apply to RTDRS if the landlord won’t act and bring all records to the hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Document damage thoroughly with photos, dates and written notices.
- Send written repair requests and keep proof of delivery.
- Use RTDRS when informal resolution fails and bring organized evidence to hearings.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
- Alberta government: Security deposits and renting information
