What are screening fees?
Screening fees are charges some landlords or property managers ask applicants to pay to cover background checks, credit reports, or administration. In Alberta, tenants should ask for a clear explanation of what the fee covers, whether it is refundable, and permission before a credit check is run. Common checks include:
- Credit checks and income verification (pay stubs or salary confirmation)
- Reference checks and supporting documents (employment letters, references)
- Criminal record checks or background screenings
Your rights as an Alberta tenant
Alberta tenants are protected by provincial tenancy rules and have access to dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service[1]. The specific rights and responsibilities appear in the Residential Tenancies Act[2]. If a screening fee seems unfair or discriminatory, you can request a written explanation from the landlord, ask for receipts for any fee, and, if necessary, apply to the RTDRS or contact Service Alberta for guidance[3]. For more about handling deposits and receipts see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and for a broader summary see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.
When is a screening fee allowed?
There is no blanket ban on reasonable screening costs, but landlords must comply with privacy and human rights laws. A fee may be acceptable when it:
- Is disclosed up front before you apply
- Is reasonable in amount and accompanied by a receipt
- Does not result from or lead to discriminatory screening practices
Official forms you may need
- Application to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — no published form number; use when disputing an application fee or decision, for example if a landlord charged an undisclosed screening fee and will not provide a receipt. See the RTDRS page[1] for the online application and guidance.
- Service Alberta consumer inquiry/contact forms — no single form number; use these to request information or register a complaint about a landlord practice before or while pursuing a dispute. See Service Alberta[3].
Practical steps if you suspect an unfair fee
- Ask the landlord in writing for a description and receipt for any screening fee
- Keep records: screenshots of listings, application forms, emails, and any credit reports. For tips on documenting deposits and receipts, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know
- If unresolved, apply to the RTDRS[1] or seek information from Service Alberta[3]
FAQ
- Can a landlord run a credit check without my permission?
- No. Landlords should get your consent before obtaining a credit report; ask for written consent and what will be checked.
- Must screening fees be refunded if I am not accepted?
- Not always. Refund policy should be disclosed in advance; ask for a receipt and written terms. If terms were not disclosed, you can challenge the charge.
- Where can I file a dispute about an application decision or fee?
- You can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service or contact Service Alberta for guidance on next steps.
How-To
- Gather all documents: receipts, emails, screenshots, and any application materials
- Ask the landlord in writing for a full explanation and a receipt within a reasonable time
- If no resolution, complete the RTDRS application form and file your dispute with supporting evidence
- Contact Service Alberta or a tenant advisory service for help preparing your case
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Service Alberta: Tenancy information
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
