Renting in Alberta means more than paying rent: tenants also have a legal duty of care to keep their unit safe, clean and in good condition. This guide explains what tenants and renters should do day-to-day, how to report repairs, what to document, and when to involve the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Practical examples show when damage is the tenant's responsibility versus the landlord's, how deposits are handled, and what official forms you may need. The language is plain and aimed at Alberta renters who want clear steps to avoid disputes and protect their rights while maintaining a respectful tenancy relationship.
What the duty of care means in Alberta
In Alberta the Residential Tenancies Act sets out rights and responsibilities for both landlords and tenants, including an expectation that tenants take reasonable care of the rental unit and common areas.[1] Reasonable care generally means keeping the unit clean, preventing damage, reporting repairs promptly, and following any reasonable rules in your tenancy agreement. It does not require tenants to fix major building systems or undertake work that is the landlord's responsibility.
Everyday tenant responsibilities
Typical tenant duties you should follow to meet the duty of care:
- Pay rent on time and in full according to your tenancy agreement.
- Keep the unit reasonably clean and report maintenance issues before they get worse.
- Provide required notices in writing when the tenancy requires it, such as requests for repairs or notice to end tenancy.
- Respect privacy and access rules: allow lawful entry for repairs or inspections with proper notice.
- Follow safety rules that protect you and the building, including prohibited activities in your lease.
Repairs: what to do and when
If something breaks or poses a health or safety risk, report it to your landlord in writing with photos and a date. For urgent hazards (like no heat in winter or major water leaks) follow up by phone and request an immediate response. If the landlord does not act, tenants in Alberta can apply to the RTDRS or use other remedies under the Residential Tenancies Act.[2]
When a tenant may be responsible for a repair
Tenants are usually responsible for damage they, their guests, or pets cause by misuse or negligence. Normal wear and tear is the landlord's responsibility. If you are unsure, document the problem, share photos, and ask the landlord in writing who will cover the cost.
Deposits and move-in/move-out care
Security deposits are governed by provincial rules; keep the move-in condition documented with an initial inspection and photos. Save receipts for any agreed repairs you pay for. If there's a dispute over deductions, you may challenge them through the RTDRS.[3] For more detail on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
How to document issues and protect yourself
Good documentation reduces risk in disputes. Use dated photos, keep copies of all messages and receipts, and write short logs of phone calls, dates, and outcomes. Where possible, send requests and notices by email or text so there is a clear record.
- Take clear, dated photos or video of damage or unsafe conditions.
- Send repair requests in writing and keep copies of landlord replies.
- When moving in or out, perform an inspection and keep a copy for your records.
When to seek dispute resolution
If your landlord fails to address significant repairs, improperly withholds a deposit, or attempts an unlawful eviction, you can apply to the RTDRS for a faster hearing than court in many cases.[2] The RTDRS handles many tenancy disputes and provides binding orders in most cases. Before applying, assemble your documentation, any tenancy agreement, photographs, receipts, and written requests.
Useful tenant actions before filing
- Send one final written request giving the landlord a reasonable deadline to respond.
- Collect evidence: inspection reports, photos, and receipts.
- File the correct RTDRS application form with your supporting documents if needed.
Inspections and moving tips
Complete a thorough initial inspection with the landlord and record existing damage. For a checklist on what to look for and how to record conditions, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants. When you pay for minor repairs that were your responsibility, keep receipts and agree in writing with the landlord about reimbursement if applicable.
Repairs and landlord/tenant responsibilities
If a repair is routine and caused by normal wear, the landlord normally pays. For maintenance and routine repairs guidance, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. When costs are disputed, use your documentation and the RTDRS process if informal resolution fails.
FAQ
- What counts as reasonable care by a tenant?
- Reasonable care includes regular cleaning, prompt reporting of problems, avoiding negligent damage, and following lease rules; it does not include major structural repairs.
- Can I withhold rent if the landlord won’t fix something?
- Withholding rent is risky and generally not advised; instead document the issue and use the RTDRS or other legal remedies—seek legal advice before withholding rent.
- How do I get my security deposit back?
- Complete the final inspection, return keys as required, provide a forwarding address, and request an itemized statement if deductions are made; challenge unfair deductions through the RTDRS if necessary.
How-To
- Document the problem with dated photos and written notes describing the issue.
- Send a written repair request to the landlord with a clear description and a reasonable deadline.
- Follow up by phone if the issue is urgent and keep a record of calls with dates and times.
- If the landlord does not act, prepare an RTDRS application with copies of your evidence and the written requests.
- File the application and attend the hearing with your documentation and a clear statement of the outcome you seek.
- If the RTDRS issues an order, follow the order and keep records until all terms are satisfied.
Key Takeaways
- Document issues immediately with photos and written requests.
- Report repairs promptly and understand which repairs the landlord must handle.
- Use the RTDRS when informal steps do not resolve important disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act and tenant information - Government of Alberta
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - Government of Alberta
- Security deposits and rules for tenants - Government of Alberta
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