If you're renting in Alberta and your landlord's property is suddenly seized—often because of foreclosure, bankruptcy, or government action—it can be a confusing and stressful time. Understanding your rights as a tenant is essential in these unique situations so you can protect your home and navigate what comes next. This article explains how tenant rights work when a rental property is seized in Alberta, what steps to take, and where to get support.

What Does 'Property Seizure' Mean for Tenants?

Property seizure usually happens when a landlord defaults on their mortgage and the bank or another authority (for example, Canada Revenue Agency or a court) takes legal control of the property. As a tenant, you may find your landlord changes, get notices from a bank, receiver, or sheriff, or be asked to pay rent to someone new. Alberta law is designed to give you important protections during these events.

Your Rights as a Tenant in Alberta When Property is Seized

• Your lease agreement continues: Just because a property is seized doesn't end your lease or rental agreement. The rent and terms continue unless you get legal notice otherwise.
• You cannot be evicted without proper notice: In Alberta, even if the property changes hands, the new owner or authority must follow Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act ^[1] regarding eviction and notice to end tenancy.
• Your security deposit is protected: The deposit remains yours, and the new property owner or receiver is responsible for it.
• Rent payment rules may shift: You may be directed—by notice—to pay rent to a receiver or other party instead of your original landlord.

If you have questions about your ongoing rights and responsibilities after your lease has started, you can learn more in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

What Should Tenants Do First?

After learning that your rental property has been seized, follow these key steps to safeguard your tenancy:

• Request official documentation from any party claiming to be the new owner or manager.
• Continue paying rent as directed in official notices—never stop or change the payee without proper written instruction.
• Ask for proof of security deposit transfer, or confirmation the new owner/receiver is responsible for your deposit.
• Keep all notices, payment receipts, and correspondence in a safe place.

Most importantly, remember the law does not allow for sudden eviction or lockout simply because of property seizure—even in emergencies.

Official Forms and Processes for Tenants

If you need to enforce your rights, respond to an eviction attempt, or claim your deposit, here's what you may need:

• Notice to Vacate (Form 1): Used by receivers, sheriffs, or new owners if they wish to end your tenancy. They must follow legal notice periods and give official written notice, citing the reason.
• Application or Complaint to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): If your rights are violated, file online or use the printed application to seek a remedy. For example, if you are locked out or your deposit is withheld, you can apply to the RTDRS. For more info and forms, visit RTDRS Forms and Filing.

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles most tenancy matters outside the courts in Alberta. You can apply for help directly if you feel your rights are at risk. In rare cases, you may also need to visit the Court of King's Bench for urgent matters.

Relevant Legislation and Sources of Protection

Your main source of legal protection is the Residential Tenancies Act of Alberta ^[1]. This law ensures fair process, protects your tenancy, and sets the rules for deposits, rent, and ending an agreement. Seizure does not void these tenant protections.

For a complete overview of your rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Common Problems for Tenants in Seized Properties

• Confusion about rent payments and who to pay
• Receiving mixed or unofficial communications from various parties
• Concerns about maintenance or urgent repairs
• Fears of sudden eviction or lockout

Many of these concerns overlap with issues tenants face after moving in or when navigating landlord changes. Review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to clarify the basic duties that still apply, even if your landlord changes due to seizure.

Looking for a change or need to secure a new place quickly? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings with up-to-date options and map-based search tools across Alberta and all of Canada.

FAQ: Tenants and Rental Property Seizures in Alberta

1. Can my new landlord evict me right away after a property seizure?
   No. The new owner or receiver must follow all rules in Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act, including providing official written notice and respecting your existing lease terms.
2. Do I lose my security deposit if my landlord's property is seized?
   No. Your deposit must be transferred to the receiver or new owner. You remain eligible to have your deposit returned (with interest, if applicable) when you move out, as long as legal conditions are met.
3. Who do I pay rent to after my rental is seized?
   You will be notified in writing about any change in payee. Always keep receipts. Do not pay anyone who cannot provide proper authorization.
4. Can I end my rental agreement because of the seizure?
   You may end your lease following regular rules and notice periods. Emergency situations or landlord breaches may allow you to apply for early termination through the RTDRS.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• Your rights and lease remain protected after a property seizure—the law does not allow automatic eviction.
• Maintain rent payments to the party officially assigned, and keep all documents and receipts.
• Use the RTDRS or Court for urgent problems or if your rights are denied.

Stay informed, keep excellent records, and reach out for help if anything seems unclear.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Fast, official help for tenant-landlord disputes
• Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies Act Information – Full legislation and frequently asked questions
• Alberta Landlords and Tenants Advisory Boards – Local city-run services to help navigate tenancy issues
• Legal Aid Alberta: Landlord and Tenant Issues

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, RSA 2000, c R-17.1: Read the official legislation
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Alberta government official portal

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