Newcomer and Refugee Rental Rights in Alberta: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving to Alberta as a newcomer or refugee comes with many challenges—finding a safe, affordable home is among the most important. Alberta law protects the rights of all tenants, no matter their country of origin or immigration status. This guide explains what you need to know about your rights and responsibilities when renting a home in Alberta.

Key Rental Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in Alberta

Whether you recently arrived in Canada or have just received your permanent residency, Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act ensures basic rights and protections for all tenants, including newcomers and refugees^[1]. Landlords are not allowed to discriminate based on nationality, immigration status, race, religion, or other protected grounds under the Alberta Human Rights Act.

• Right to a Written Rental Agreement: Always ask for a written lease or tenancy agreement in a language you understand. It outlines your rights and the landlord’s responsibilities.
• Protection from Discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you simply because you are a newcomer or refugee, or because you receive social assistance.
• Privacy: Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies.
• Safe and Healthy Home: You have the right to a rental unit that is clean, safe, and in good repair. If you have concerns, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
• Fair Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased under certain rules, and only after the required notice period.

If you have questions specific to Alberta, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Deposits and Moving Into a New Rental

Landlords in Alberta often require a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) when you sign a lease. This deposit cannot be more than one month’s rent.

• Get a Receipt: Always obtain a written receipt for your deposit.
• Know Your Rights: The deposit must be held in a trust account and returned with interest when you move out, minus permitted deductions.

See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for more details about deposits.

Move-In Inspections: Why They Matter

Alberta law requires both the landlord and tenant to complete a move-in inspection report. This helps clarify the condition of the property at move-in and avoid disputes when moving out. You can find a sample inspection report on the Government of Alberta website. For a full guide, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Important Forms for Tenants in Alberta

Several standard forms protect your rental rights. These include:

• Residential Tenancy Agreement: Used when starting a tenancy. Make sure to read and understand before signing. View sample form.
• Condition (Inspection) Report: Used at the start and end of your tenancy to document the property’s state. See official inspection form.
• Notice to Terminate Tenancy: If you or your landlord wants to end the tenancy, written notice is required. Learn about ending a tenancy.

Tip: If you need help filling out these forms, ask a local settlement agency or Alberta Supports Centre for guidance.

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Alberta?

If you have a dispute with your landlord or feel your rights have been violated, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). The RTDRS acts like a tribunal, providing faster, more accessible dispute resolution for most tenancy problems.

Legislation Protecting Tenants

The primary law governing rental housing in Alberta is the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation outlines the rules for deposits, repairs, rent increases, evictions, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions: Newcomer and Refugee Tenants in Alberta

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a newcomer or refugee?
   No. Discrimination based on nationality or immigration status is not allowed in Alberta.
2. Do I have to pay a damage deposit?
   Landlords commonly request a security (damage) deposit, but it cannot be more than one month’s rent. Always ask for a receipt.
3. What should I do if my rental needs urgent repairs?
   Contact your landlord in writing. If it remains unresolved, you can apply to the RTDRS. For more information, visit Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
4. Is my lease valid if it’s only verbal?
   Yes, verbal agreements are legal, but it is safer to have a written agreement so everyone understands the rules and responsibilities.
5. Where can I browse affordable rentals across Canada?
   Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Fast resolution of disputes and information about tenant rights.
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act: The law governing all private rentals in Alberta.
• Alberta Human Rights Commission: Support for discrimination complaints in housing.
• Alberta Immigrant Services: Language and legal help for newcomers.
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act, RSA 2000, Chapter R-17
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

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