Can my landlord ask for details about my mental health condition?

Landlords can request enough information to assess an accommodation, but cannot demand a diagnosis or full medical history.

Do I need to disclose my mental health status before signing a lease?

No, you are not obligated to reveal a mental health condition unless you are requesting an accommodation that requires it.

What if I’m denied an accommodation?

You can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission or seek resolution through the RTDRS if your landlord does not provide a reasonable accommodation.

Is there any cost to submitting a Human Rights complaint?

There is no fee to file a discrimination complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

Are emotional support animals always permitted as an accommodation?

Landlords must allow them in most cases, unless it causes undue hardship (such as allergies for other tenants or property damage risks).

Tenant Mental Health Rights & Accommodations in Alberta

Mental Health & Tenancy Alberta published: June 19, 2025

Living with mental health challenges or supporting someone who does can affect your rental experience in Alberta. Understanding your rights and the types of reasonable accommodations landlords must offer can make a significant difference in your well-being and housing stability. This guide breaks down the essential information, resources, and steps to help tenants in Alberta get the support they need—while upholding their rental obligations.

Understanding Mental Health Rights for Alberta Tenants

Tenants in Alberta are protected from discrimination based on a mental disability under the Alberta Human Rights Act. This means landlords must not treat you unfairly during any stage of your tenancy—from viewing an apartment, signing a lease, to living in your home.

Right to Accommodation: Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with mental health needs, unless it causes them undue hardship.
Privacy: You do not have to disclose a diagnosis to your landlord, but may need to describe your needs or provide documentation if requesting an accommodation.
Equal Access: You cannot be denied a rental, evicted, or have your lease conditions changed simply because of a mental health condition.

For a broader look at your rights and your landlord's, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Reasonable Accommodations: What Can You Request?

A reasonable accommodation is a change to rules, policies, or the environment that allows someone with a mental health disability to live safely and comfortably. Examples in rental housing may include:

Permission for an emotional support or service animal, even in a "no pets" building
Adjusting communication methods (e.g., allowing a support person to communicate on your behalf)
Flexible rent payment dates if your income arrives irregularly due to disability benefits
Allowing modifications inside the unit (e.g., safety devices or quiet spaces)

Requests should be made in writing, describing how the accommodation relates to your mental health needs. Usually, a letter from a healthcare provider may be required.

The Process: How to Request an Accommodation

Follow this practical process if you need an accommodation:

Make your request in writing (an email or letter is best).
Explain your need and, where possible, provide documentation (like a doctor’s note confirming a need for accommodation; no detailed diagnosis is required).
Give your landlord reasonable time to consider and respond. Most will need to discuss options and may seek more information.
If your landlord refuses or ignores your request without good reason, you can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission or request resolution through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

Official Forms and How to Use Them

If your request or situation is not resolved and you wish to pursue your rights:

Human Rights Complaint Form (Alberta Human Rights Commission): Used to file a formal complaint if you face discrimination based on mental health. Steps include downloading the Complaint Form, completing it, and submitting via email or mail.
Application Form (RTDRS): If your landlord is not meeting their obligations (such as repairs or accommodation), you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service. Choose "Tenant Application" online or download the paper form.

Example: If your landlord refuses a reasonable request for an emotional support animal and threatens eviction, you may file with the Human Rights Commission and use the RTDRS to stop the eviction.

Your Ongoing Rights and Responsibilities

Accommodations do not override your duty to fulfill tenant responsibilities. You are still expected to:

Pay rent on time
Avoid damaging the property
Respect your neighbours and comply with reasonable building rules

If mental health impacts your ability to comply, open communication and documentation are critical. Learn more about these duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Addressing Disputes and Safety Concerns

Sometimes, mental health issues may contribute to conflicts or complaints. You have the right to a safe home. If you face unhealthy or unsafe living situations, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If you feel your rights are violated or need urgent accommodation, reach out for support early. Provincial tenant groups and official government supports can guide you.

If you're seeking a fresh start or a rental that better accommodates your mental health needs, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily and securely online.

FAQ: Tenant Mental Health Rights & Accommodations in Alberta

Can my landlord ask for details about my mental health condition?
Landlords can request enough information to assess an accommodation, but cannot demand a diagnosis or full medical history.
Do I need to disclose my mental health status before signing a lease?
No, you are not obligated to reveal a mental health condition unless you are requesting an accommodation that requires it.
What if I’m denied an accommodation?
You can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission or seek resolution through the RTDRS if your landlord does not provide a reasonable accommodation.
Is there any cost to submitting a Human Rights complaint?
There is no fee to file a discrimination complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
Are emotional support animals always permitted as an accommodation?
Landlords must allow them in most cases, unless it causes undue hardship (such as allergies for other tenants or property damage risks).

Conclusion

Tenants in Alberta have strong protections against discrimination due to mental health and are entitled to reasonable accommodations.
Requests should be made clearly and documented, and tenants should use official resources if facing barriers.
Provincial agencies and dispute resolution services support tenants in upholding their rights and responsibilities.

Knowing your mental health rights and the proper steps can make your tenancy more secure and positive.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Alberta Human Rights Commission: Discrimination complaints, accommodation advice
Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Tenancy applications and dispute resolution
Service Alberta – Landlords and Tenants: Guides, forms, tenant tips
Canadian Mental Health Association Alberta: Peer support, advocacy, and resources
Browse apartments for rent in Canada to explore accessible and supportive rental options nationwide

Alberta Human Rights Act, legislation text
Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta), official source
Alberta Human Rights Commission
Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)