If you've been evicted in Alberta, you may be worried about your rental record and credit. Securing future housing can feel stressful, but there are steps you can take to minimize the long-term impact. This article explains what eviction records exist in Alberta, options for sealing or correcting records, and practical tips to start improving your credit after an eviction.

Understanding Eviction Records in Alberta

First, it's important to know that Alberta does not have a formal, public eviction registry. However, eviction records can show up in two main ways:

• Civil court records: If your landlord obtained an eviction order from the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or Provincial Court, that information forms part of the public record.
• Credit reports: If you owe unpaid rent or have a debt that goes to collections after an eviction, this may appear as a negative item on your credit file.

These records can impact your ability to rent in the future, as many landlords perform credit and rental background checks. Understanding your rights and the reporting process is the first step toward handling eviction-related issues.

Can You Seal or Remove an Eviction Record in Alberta?

Unlike some provinces or US states, Alberta does not have a formal process called "record-sealing" for residential tenancy evictions. Public records of court or RTDRS decisions remain accessible, but there are limited ways you may be able to address them:

• Incorrect or outdated information: If the court or RTDRS record is incorrect, you can apply to have it amended or appealed. For example, if there was an administrative error in the posting, contact the court or RTDRS at their official site.
• Errors on your credit report: You have the right to dispute inaccurate debt or eviction listings with Canada's credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion). Provide supporting documents like payment receipts or case details.

Summary: While true sealing is not available, Alberta tenants can still challenge or correct errors that may be hurting their record.

How Evictions Affect Your Credit

An eviction alone does not appear on your credit report. However, if you owe unpaid rent and the landlord reports the debt to a collection agency, it can damage your credit score. Such negative items may stay in your credit file for up to six years in Alberta.

It's important to communicate with your landlord and clarify any outstanding amounts. If you paid all rent and fees, request written proof to help demonstrate this for future rentals.

Steps to Repair Your Credit After Eviction

Improving your credit after an eviction takes time, but following best practices can help you qualify for future rentals and even rebuild your financial reputation.

• Order Your Credit Report: Request a free copy from both Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada. Review carefully for any errors.
• Pay Outstanding Debts: Resolve any unpaid rent or damage claims as soon as possible. Get a receipt for every payment.
• Dispute Inaccurate Information: If you spot errors, formally dispute them with the credit bureau. Use supporting documents and be clear on your reasons.
• Manage New Credit Responsibly: Make payments on time and limit new credit applications to help rebuild your score.
• Document Your Rental History: For future applications, obtain reference letters or proof of good conduct in past rentals. This can help offset a prior eviction.

If you're moving to a new home after an eviction, it's crucial to communicate honestly with prospective landlords. A proactive explanation and proof of steps you've taken can make a difference.

For actionable next steps on beginning your recovery and moving forward, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Key Forms for Alberta Tenants

While Alberta does not provide a specific "eviction record-sealing" form, the following official resources can help if you want to address errors related to eviction:

• Notice of Appeal (Provincial Court Civil Form 15): If you believe an eviction order was made in error, you can file a Notice of Appeal.
  Example: If you missed your hearing date due to hospital admission and were evicted in your absence, you can use Form 15 to request a review.
  Download Form 15
• RTDRS Correction Request: To correct errors on an RTDRS order, you must contact RTDRS directly and provide supporting documents.
  RTDRS official website
• Credit Report Dispute Form: Use Equifax or TransUnion's dispute process to correct inaccurate credit items. Equifax | TransUnion

What Alberta Laws Apply?

The Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) outlines how evictions and rental disputes are handled. The RTDRS and Provincial Court of Alberta are responsible for hearing tenant appeals and applications.¹

For more information on your rights and obligations, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Options for Finding a New Rental Home

After an eviction, it's important to show you are a responsible tenant moving forward. Prepare references, gather supporting documents, and explore avenues for a fresh start. You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to widen your search and compare options in Alberta and beyond.

For further reading on handling disputes and moving out of your rental, you may find these guides helpful:

• Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them
• How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I remove an eviction from my record in Alberta?
   No, there is no formal eviction record-sealing process, but you can correct errors via the tribunal or credit bureau if information is wrong.
2. Will an eviction automatically appear on my credit report?
   An eviction itself does not, but associated debts or court judgments may appear if your landlord reports them.
3. How long does a debt from an eviction remain on my credit file?
   In most cases, negative items like collections remain up to six years from the date of default.
4. What documents should I keep after an eviction?
   Keep a copy of the eviction order, correspondence, payment receipts, and any settlement letters.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta
• Alberta Government: Renting in Alberta
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)
• CMHA Help in Crisis (for emotional and housing support)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

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