Living in a rental property should feel safe and welcoming for every tenant. Unfortunately, there are times when tenants in Alberta find themselves facing discrimination or harassment from other tenants. Knowing your rights and what steps to take can help you resolve these situations effectively and protect your well-being.

Understanding Discrimination Between Tenants in Alberta

Discrimination occurs when a person is treated unfairly based on protected grounds under Alberta’s human rights laws, such as race, gender, religion, disability, age, or family status. In a rental context, discrimination can include verbal harassment, exclusion, threats, or any actions that make you feel unsafe or unwelcome because of a protected characteristic.

Your Legal Protections

Tenants in Alberta are protected from discrimination under the Alberta Human Rights Act. Both landlords and other tenants are expected to foster a respectful living environment. If another tenant is discriminating against you, there are formal steps you can take to address the situation, in addition to discussing with your property manager or landlord.

What Should You Do If Another Tenant Discriminates Against You?

• Document Everything: Keep a detailed log of each incident. Note dates, times, what was said or done, and who was present. Save any texts, emails, or notes relevant to the incidents.
• Inform Your Landlord: Notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the discrimination. Landlords are legally obligated to address discrimination in their properties.
• Know Your Tenancy Rights: Alberta tenancy law emphasizes a tenant’s right to "quiet enjoyment"—meaning you have the right to live without undue disturbance from others, including other tenants. Review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta to understand your protections and obligations.

Filing an Official Complaint

If the landlord does not resolve the issue, or if the discrimination continues, you can file a human rights complaint directly with the Alberta Human Rights Commission. No official form from the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) directly addresses tenant-to-tenant discrimination, but you may pursue a remedy for breach of "quiet enjoyment." For landlord-related tenancy issues, you can apply to RTDRS using their online application process.

Steps for Tenants Facing Discrimination

• Write a formal complaint to your landlord or property manager, outlining the incidents with as much detail as possible.
• If the situation involves threats, violence, or immediate danger, contact local law enforcement right away.
• If the landlord fails to act, you can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission (How to File a Complaint).
• For tenancy issues not resolved by your landlord, you may file an application with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for matters relating to your right to quiet enjoyment.

Relevant Tenant Rights and Forms in Alberta

• RTDRS Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 7): Use this form to apply to the RTDRS if your landlord fails to ensure your right to quiet enjoyment (Download and details). Example: If repeated harassment is ignored by the landlord, you may seek an RTDRS order requiring the landlord to act or even break your lease without penalty.
• Alberta Human Rights Complaint Form: File this if you believe you have faced illegal discrimination (Official guide and form).

Before applying to the RTDRS or the Human Rights Commission, always preserve copies of your complaint, landlord responses, and evidence.

Other Issues Tenants May Face

If you experience ongoing problems in your rental, discrimination may be tied to other issues, such as safety concerns or the need to resolve conflicts. For more on handling difficult situations, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them and How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Key Alberta Tenancy Legislation

• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act: Sets out landlord and tenant rights, including the right to quiet enjoyment.
• Alberta Human Rights Act: Protects tenants from discrimination based on protected grounds.

For a breakdown of provincial rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

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FAQs: Tenant Discrimination Issues in Alberta Rentals

1. What should I do first if I am discriminated against by another tenant?
   Document the incident, inform your landlord in writing, and keep records of your communications and any responses. If your landlord does not resolve the issue, escalate your complaint to the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
2. Is my landlord responsible if another tenant harasses or discriminates against me?
   Yes. Landlords must take reasonable steps to address discrimination or harassment complaints between tenants. If they fail to act, you can take legal action.
3. Can I terminate my tenancy if the situation does not improve?
   In some circumstances, if persistent discrimination results in your quiet enjoyment being denied, you may apply to the RTDRS to end your tenancy early without penalty.
4. Where can I get free advice about my rights as a tenant?
   Contact the Service Alberta Consumer Contact Centre or tenant advocacy organizations such as the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) for information and support.

Conclusion: Your Next Steps

• You have a right to safe and discrimination-free housing in Alberta under both tenancy law and human rights law.
• Keep detailed records, report issues promptly, and use official channels for complaints when necessary.
• Support is available—don't hesitate to reach out to tenant resources or government bodies if you need help.

Taking prompt action protects your rights and helps ensure a safe environment for all tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): For tenant-landlord dispute resolution.
• Alberta Human Rights Commission: To file or learn about human rights complaints.
• Service Alberta: Renting in Alberta: Official guidance, complaint forms, and tenant resources.
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA): Tenant information and legal education.
• For emergencies or immediate threats, call local law enforcement or 911.

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1. Alberta Human Rights Act: Official website
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta): Full legislation text
3. Alberta Human Rights Commission – Filing a Complaint: How to file a complaint
4. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): RTDRS official info

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