Tenants often wonder what changes they can make to a rental unit and who is responsible for repairs in Alberta. This guide explains tenants' practical rights and responsibilities around alterations, routine and emergency repairs, and documenting requests so you can protect your living conditions and deposit. It covers when you must ask for written landlord permission, what landlords must fix under provincial rules, how to use official forms to raise a dispute, and steps to take if repairs are delayed or refused. The language is plain and aimed at renters who want clear, usable next steps for requesting repairs, making minor changes, or seeking resolution through provincial services in Alberta.
Understanding permissions and repairs
Under Alberta rules, landlords are responsible for ensuring a rental is habitable and meets basic health and safety standards. Tenants are expected to keep the unit reasonably clean and avoid causing damage beyond normal wear and tear. You should be familiar with the Residential Tenancies Act and provincial guidance when deciding whether a change or a repair is your responsibility or the landlord's.[1]
When you need landlord permission
- Any repair or structural change (for example, replacing cabinets or removing walls) requires written landlord permission.
- Installing built-in fixtures or hardwired appliances should be approved in writing to avoid deposit deductions or payment disputes.
- Changing locks or altering keys requires landlord consent and must follow safety and entry rules.
Requesting repairs and timelines
If something needs repair, tell your landlord in writing and keep a dated copy. If the issue affects health or safety (no heat, major plumbing leaks, mold), make this clear in your message and ask for an estimated repair date. If the landlord does not respond, you may escalate the matter to provincial services for dispute resolution.[2]
- Give a written notice describing the problem, the date you noticed it, and a reasonable time for access.
- Keep photos, messages, receipts, and records of any temporary fixes you paid for or arranged.
- If repairs are urgent, explain the risk to health or safety and request immediate attention.
Official forms and where to use them
When informal requests do not resolve a repair or alteration dispute, tenants can use official channels. The main dispute resolution service in Alberta is the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Below are common official forms and how tenants typically use them.
- RTDRS Application (Application for Dispute Resolution): used to ask the RTDRS to hear a dispute about repairs, unpaid repair costs, or landlord obligations. Example: you filed written repair requests and waited without action; you apply to ask the RTDRS to order repairs or a rent abatement.[3]
- Written notice or email record: not an official government PDF, but a required step—documenting your repair requests with dates and details is essential before filing an application.
FAQ
- Can I paint or decorate my rental without permission?
- Usually minor, temporary changes like removable hooks or removable wallpaper are acceptable, but painting walls or making permanent changes typically requires written landlord permission. If you make changes without permission you may be responsible for restoring the unit at move-out.
- Who pays for routine repairs like clogged drains or small appliance fixes?
- Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining plumbing, heating, and essential systems. Tenants are responsible for damage they cause. For specifics about routine repairs and responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
- What can I do if my landlord refuses to fix an essential issue?
- Document your requests, keep evidence, and consider applying to the RTDRS for dispute resolution if the landlord does not act. The RTDRS can order repairs or other remedies after reviewing the evidence.[2]
How-To
- Document the problem with date-stamped photos, videos, and a brief written description to keep as evidence.
- Send a clear written request to your landlord (email or registered letter) describing the repair, the risk, and a reasonable timeframe to complete it.
- Allow reasonable access for inspections or repairs and keep records of any missed appointments or denied entry.
- If the landlord fails to act, prepare and submit an RTDRS Application with your documentation to ask for dispute resolution.
Key Takeaways
- Get written permission before doing permanent alterations to avoid liability.
- Always document repair requests with dates, photos, and copies of correspondence.
- Use the RTDRS if landlord responses don’t resolve health, safety, or major repair problems.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information — Government of Alberta
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — Government of Alberta
- RTDRS and tenancy forms — Government of Alberta
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