Repair Disputes in Alberta Rentals: Solutions for Tenants

When renting a home in Alberta, repair responsibilities can sometimes lead to disputes between tenants and landlords. Knowing your rights and the proper steps to resolve issues can help you maintain a safe, comfortable living space and preserve your tenancy. This guide explains common repair disagreements, the law in Alberta, and how tenants can take effective action.

Common Repair Disputes Tenants Face

Disagreements often arise over:

• Essential repairs (heat, water, electricity, appliances)
• Maintenance vs. damage (who is responsible for fixing what)
• Timeliness of repairs after a report
• Health or safety hazards that go unaddressed

Understanding these issues is the first step toward resolving them.

How Repair Responsibilities Work in Alberta

In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act outlines repair obligations:

• Landlords must keep the rental unit in good repair and comply with health, housing, and safety standards.
• Tenants must keep the unit clean and avoid damaging the property, but are not responsible for reasonable wear and tear.

For a more detailed look at both parties' responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Examples of Common Repair Disputes

• Broken furnace during winter — not fixed after multiple requests
• Plumbing issues leading to water damage and mould
• Landlord claiming tenant must pay for appliance repair due to 'misuse'

What to Do First: Steps to Take About Repairs

If something in your unit needs fixing and your landlord isn't responding, follow these steps:

• Notify your landlord in writing (email or letter) about the repair. Include details and photos if possible.
• Keep a record of your correspondence and any responses received.
• Allow a reasonable time for repairs, depending on the issue's urgency. Emergencies should be addressed right away.

If Repairs Aren't Completed: Next Steps

Still no action? Alberta tenants have several options:

• Contact Alberta Health Services or your municipality if a repair affects health or safety.
• Serve a formal notice using the proper form (see below).
• Apply to the tribunal for a remedy or rent reduction.

Essential Official Forms for Repair Disputes

Several forms may help resolve a repair dispute in Alberta:

• Notice to Remedy Breach of Residential Tenancy Agreement:
  Download the form (PDF)
  Use this form to formally tell your landlord they must fix a problem within a certain timeframe. For example, if your landlord ignores a leaking pipe, complete and serve this notice to start the formal process.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTDRS Form):
  View application instructions
  If no resolution is reached, use this form to apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for an order requiring repairs, compensation, or other remedies.

The Tribunal Handling Alberta Rental Disputes

Repair and other tenancy disputes in Alberta are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), a tribunal where tenants can apply for orders without going to court.

How to Resolve Disputes: Options for Tenants

Here’s how you can proceed:

• Negotiate directly with your landlord and keep written communications.
• If repairs affect Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting, contact the appropriate authority.
• Use a formal notice or apply through the RTDRS if negotiation doesn’t work.

If you’re unsure about your next steps, reading up on Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities offers practical guidance.

Summary: Resolving Repair Disputes

Most repair disputes can be solved through prompt reporting, clear records, and formal action if needed. Staying informed will help protect your tenancy and ensure a livable home.

You can always Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings if you’re considering a move or seeking better options.

To understand rights and obligations specific to your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t fix urgent repairs?
   Start by giving written notice. If the issue affects health or safety, contact Alberta Health Services or municipal authorities. If unresolved, file an application with the RTDRS.
2. Can my landlord make me pay for repairs?
   Landlords can only require tenants to pay for repairs if the damage was caused by the tenant’s negligence or misuse, not for normal wear and tear.
3. What if repairs are not done before I move out?
   You should document all outstanding repairs and your requests. This protects your security deposit and supports your case if a dispute arises regarding deductions.
4. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made?
   No, Alberta law does not let tenants withhold rent unless authorized by an order from the RTDRS or court.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Information and applications
• Service Alberta – Tenant and landlord rights, guides, and forms
• Alberta Health Services (Environmental Public Health) – Health and safety complaints
• Local legal clinics or the Edmonton Community Legal Centre for free tenant advice

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, RSA 2000, c R-17 – View Alberta legislation
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service – Official Alberta government page
3. Service Alberta – Alberta rental law overview

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