Staircases and walkways are common sources of injury and stress for renters. As a tenant in Alberta, you have the right to a safe, well-maintained path to and within your rental, and knowing how to identify hazards and ask for repairs can protect your family and your legal rights. This guide explains what typical hazards to watch for, who is usually responsible for fixes, how to document problems, and the practical steps for reporting unsafe stairs, handrails, lighting or icy walkways to your landlord and to provincial authorities. It also explains deadlines, official forms, and when to contact dispute resolution services so you can get repairs done promptly and safely.
Common hazards to watch for
Typical problems in rental buildings and houses include structural wear and weather-related issues. Identifying them early helps prevent falls and injuries.
- Broken or loose handrails that need repair.
- Uneven, cracked or missing treads that require repair to prevent trips.
- Poor or missing lighting that creates a safety risk at night.
- Ice, snow or drainage issues on walkways that need removal or repair.
Who is responsible for repairs?
Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining common areas such as stairs and walkways and for timely repairs. If a landlord does not act, tenants can apply to the provincial dispute service (RTDRS) for resolution[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act sets out landlord and tenant obligations and timelines for repairs in Alberta[2]. For more on hygiene, safety and habitability expectations, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Documenting and reporting a problem
Good records speed up repairs and strengthen a tenant's case if a dispute is needed. Note who you told, when, and what response you received.
- Take dated photos or video showing the hazard.
- Log the date and time of each incident or observation.
- Serve a written notice to your landlord describing the issue and requested repair.
If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time after written notice, you can apply to RTDRS for dispute resolution and possible orders for repairs or compensation[1].
Emergency repairs and icy walkways
If a staircase or walkway presents an immediate danger (fall risk, large structural failure, major ice accumulation), ask the landlord for an urgent repair and call local emergency services if people are at risk. For step-by-step guidance on urgent repairs and tenant rights during emergencies, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Can my landlord be fined for unsafe stairs?
- Municipal building inspectors or provincial authorities can enforce safety codes; tenants can also seek orders for repair through RTDRS or other enforcement bodies.
- What if my landlord refuses to fix an icy walkway?
- Document the issue, request an urgent repair in writing, contact municipal services for public walkway issues if applicable, and consider applying to RTDRS if the landlord still refuses.
- How long should I wait for a repair?
- Urgent repairs should be addressed immediately or within a very short timeframe; non-urgent repairs should be completed within a reasonable period after written notice—keep records of dates and communications.
How-To
- Assess immediate danger and remove people from risk if possible.
- Take clear photos or videos with timestamps.
- Serve a written notice to your landlord describing the hazard and requested repair.
- Request an urgent repair, and call emergency services if there is imminent risk.
- If unresolved, contact RTDRS or your municipal tenant help line for next steps.
Key Takeaways
- Remember to photograph hazards and keep dated records.
- Remember to provide written notice to your landlord before filing a dispute.
- Remember that urgent safety issues may require immediate action or emergency services.
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Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
- Repairs and maintenance (Service Alberta)
