Managing your rental housing in Alberta can be more challenging if you have mental health needs. Fortunately, Alberta offers a range of support services to help tenants maintain safe, stable, and healthy housing. This guide explains your rights under Alberta law, practical steps to access assistance, and important resources for tenants facing mental health challenges.

Your Rights as a Tenant With Mental Health Needs

All Alberta tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), regardless of their mental health status.^[1] This means landlords cannot discriminate against you due to a disability, including mental illness, as per the Alberta Human Rights Act.

• Landlords must provide safe, habitable housing and treat all tenants fairly
• You have the right to request reasonable accommodations (such as assistive animals, payment plans, or communication supports)
• Evictions or negative actions based solely on a mental health issue are not allowed

For a complete summary, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

What Types of Support Services Are Available?

If your mental health affects your ability to keep up with rent, property maintenance, or communication with your landlord, Alberta has organizations ready to assist. These services aim to help you stay housed and healthy.

• Tenant Support Programs: Local non-profits such as The Canadian Mental Health Association – Alberta Division offer housing advocates, crisis intervention, and transitional housing help.
• Legal Aid Alberta: Provides advice and representation for tenants facing eviction or legal disputes.
• 211 Alberta: A free helpline connecting tenants to mental health and social services, including financial support, peer support, and emergency shelter.
• Government Supports: Alberta Social Housing programs and Alberta Works can offer rent supplements or crisis support.

These resources can connect you with counselors, housing advocates, peer support groups, and transit or relocation help if your tenancy is at risk.

Addressing Health and Safety Concerns

Mental health conditions can sometimes affect a tenant's ability to maintain a safe living environment. If you’re experiencing challenges with property upkeep or face issues such as pests, repairs, or health hazards, it’s important to communicate promptly with your landlord. For more detailed advice, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If you feel overwhelmed, ask a family member, friend, or community worker to help you communicate with your landlord or housing provider.

Filing a Complaint or Applying for Help

If you’re experiencing discrimination, harassment, or facing eviction due to your mental health, you have options to resolve the issue. The tribunal responsible for residential tenancy issues in Alberta is the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).^[2] You may also file a human rights complaint using the Alberta Human Rights Commission’s forms.

• RTDRS Application Form (official site): Used to resolve tenancy disputes, such as evictions or accommodation requests. Example: If your landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation for a mental health issue, you can apply with this form. The RTDRS website provides step-by-step instructions.
• Human Rights Complaint Form (official site): Use this form if you believe you've been discriminated against due to your mental health. Example: You are evicted because of a mental health-related incident and need to challenge the decision.

Always seek advice from an advocate or legal support worker before starting a formal complaint if possible.

Maintaining Your Tenancy and Preventing Issues

Good communication and clear record-keeping are essential. If you’re worried about meeting your rental obligations due to your mental health, talk to your landlord as soon as possible. Consider reviewing Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a comprehensive overview of how responsibilities are managed in Alberta rentals.

Tenants facing mental health challenges can also benefit from a supportive network. Alberta’s service providers can act on your behalf or help mediate a solution before issues escalate.

FAQ: Support for Alberta Tenants with Mental Health Needs

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses a reasonable accommodation for my mental health?
   Document the request, communicate in writing, and seek assistance from an advocate or the Alberta Human Rights Commission. You may also apply to the RTDRS for dispute resolution.
2. Are there specific organizations in Alberta that help tenants with mental health issues?
   Yes. Contact 211 Alberta, the Canadian Mental Health Association, or Legal Aid Alberta for direct support and referrals.
3. Can I be evicted for reasons related to my mental health?
   No—landlords cannot evict based solely on a mental health condition. However, standard rules on tenancy must still be followed. Disputes may be reviewed by the RTDRS or Alberta Human Rights Commission.
4. How do I request a service animal or support animal as an accommodation?
   Notify your landlord in writing and provide documentation of your need. For disputes, contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Tenants with mental health needs in Alberta are protected by law and have a right to reasonable accommodation.
• A variety of support services are available through provincial programs, non-profits, and legal aid organizations.
• Proactive communication with your landlord, documentation, and seeking outside help early can help maintain stable housing.

Connect with resources and know your rights—your mental health should never be a barrier to safe and secure housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – handle deposit disputes, evictions, or accommodation requests
• Alberta Human Rights Commission – address discrimination issues
• Canadian Mental Health Association: Alberta Division
• 211 Alberta – Information & Referral Line
• Legal Aid Alberta
• For general rental support, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

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

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