Are you considering moving into a rental in Alberta, or wondering if your current arrangement is a short-term rental or a long-term tenancy? Understanding the differences is crucial for your rights, responsibilities, and what legal protections apply. This guide compares both options to help Alberta tenants make informed decisions and avoid surprises down the road.

Short-Term Rentals in Alberta

Short-term rentals are properties rented for a limited period, usually less than 30 consecutive days. Examples include vacation properties, homes listed on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, or furnished monthly rentals. These arrangements are generally considered temporary accommodations.

• Often do not require a lease or formal rental agreement
• Typically do not fall under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act
• May have house rules, but not the same protections as tenants in long-term rentals

It’s important to note that guests in short-term rentals usually do not have the same rights as tenants, such as protection from eviction without notice. If something goes wrong (e.g., cancellation by the host), your rights are limited to what is stated in the booking agreement or platform policies.

When Is a Rental a "Short-Term Rental"?

In Alberta, a true short-term rental is usually for less than thirty days. If your rental lasts longer, especially if it is your main home and you pay monthly, it may be considered a long-term tenancy and different laws apply.^[1]

Long-Term Tenancies in Alberta

Long-term rentals involve a lease or agreement for a period longer than thirty days. These rentals are covered by Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and offer much stronger legal protections for tenants and landlords alike.

• Require a written or verbal tenancy agreement
• Security deposits are regulated under the RTA
• Tenants are entitled to privacy, reasonable enjoyment, and notice before landlord entry
• Eviction rules, rent increases, and repairs are regulated

For more about security deposits under Alberta’s laws, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Tenancy agreements can be periodic (month-to-month) or fixed-term (for a set period, such as one year). After you sign a rental agreement, both you and your landlord have key rights and duties—explained here: What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Legal Protections for Long-Term Tenants

• Rights to notice for rent increases or eviction (see RTA)
• Dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Prescribed forms for notices and complaints

Not sure what your landlord can and cannot do? Learn about the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Tip: When considering any new rental in Alberta, ask for a written agreement and clarify if your arrangement is protected by the RTA. This ensures stronger safeguards and legal recourse if needed.

Which Rules Apply: The Key Differences Explained

• Legal Coverage: Long-term tenants are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act; short-term guests are not.
• Deposit Rules: Only long-term tenancies have regulated deposit requirements and return procedures.
• Eviction and Notice: Long-term tenants have a right to proper notice and may challenge evictions; short-term guests can usually be asked to leave at the end of the booking without formal notice.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords must keep long-term rentals safe and habitable under the law.

If you’re searching for a new place that truly meets your needs, Houseme - your rental solution in Canada makes it easy to explore verified long-term and short-term listings in Alberta and across the country.

Relevant Forms for Alberta Tenants

If you are in a long-term tenancy, certain official forms may be relevant. Examples include:

• Notice to Vacate (Form 1): Used by tenants to give proper notice if you intend to end your lease. Download from the Government of Alberta rental forms page. You might use it if moving out at the end of your lease.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTDRS Form): Allows tenants to apply for a hearing with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) if there is a dispute over the tenancy, such as improper eviction or withheld deposit.

Action tip: Always read and follow form instructions carefully, submit forms with any required supporting documents, and keep copies for your records.

How to Tell If You’re Protected by Alberta’s Tenancy Laws

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is my agreement for more than 30 consecutive days?
• Is this my primary home?
• Did I sign a lease or formal rental agreement?

If the answer is yes to these, you’re likely in a long-term tenancy. For additional information about tenant and landlord rights in Alberta, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

FAQ: Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals in Alberta

1. Are short-term rental guests considered tenants under Alberta law?
   No, guests in true short-term accommodations (less than 30 days) are not protected by the Residential Tenancies Act and do not have tenant rights.
2. Do I need a signed lease for my rental to be a long-term tenancy?
   Not always—a verbal rental agreement can be valid in Alberta. However, a written lease is highly recommended for clarity and legal proof.
3. What can I do if I have a problem with my landlord in a long-term tenancy?
   You can try to resolve the issue directly, but if that doesn’t work, you can apply for a hearing with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
4. What notice is required to end a long-term tenancy?
   You must provide written notice using the correct form and timeframes, which vary depending on the agreement type (e.g., month-to-month or fixed-term).
5. Are deposit rules the same for short-term and long-term rentals?
   No, only long-term tenancies have regulated deposit rules. Short-term rentals handle deposits according to booking agreements or platform terms.

Conclusion: What Alberta Tenants Should Remember

• The Residential Tenancies Act protects long-term rental tenants, but not short-term guests.
• Written leases and proper forms are key for tenant protections.
• If in doubt, check with RTDRS or review your agreement for clarity.

Knowing whether your rental is long-term or short-term ensures you understand your rights, can resolve disputes fairly, and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) - Government of Alberta – The law governing residential tenancies
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Apply for dispute resolution online or get information about your rights
• Printable forms and guides: Official Alberta tenancy forms
• Tenant advice and information: Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)

---

1. Government of Alberta, About the Residential Tenancies Act
2. Government of Alberta, Alberta Residential Tenancy Forms

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy