Facing discrimination because of immigration status can be upsetting and make finding or keeping a home in Alberta even more stressful—especially in shared housing or roommate situations. It's important for tenants to know their legal protections and how to respond if they believe they’ve been treated unfairly due to their immigration or citizenship status. This article explains your tenant rights under Alberta law and what to do if you experience discrimination.

Can Landlords or Roommates Discriminate Based on Immigration Status?

In Alberta, discrimination in rental housing—including roommate or shared accommodation—is prohibited by the Alberta Human Rights Act ^[1]. Landlords and even primary tenants who sublet or choose roommates cannot refuse housing, harass, or treat someone unfairly based on their citizenship, place of origin, or race. However, "immigration status" as a category is not specifically named in the Act, but discrimination related to citizenship or origin often falls under protected grounds.

• Protected Grounds: Includes race, place of origin, ancestry, and citizenship.
• You can apply for any rental or shared accommodation regardless of your visa or permanent resident status.
• Landlords may ask you to prove you can pay rent, but they cannot use your citizenship or immigration status against you if you can otherwise qualify and pay.

Signs of Discrimination in Shared Housing

Discrimination in shared rental situations can include:

• Being denied as a roommate or tenant solely because you are a newcomer, permanent resident, or temporary worker
• Receiving less favorable lease terms than others
• Experiencing harassment, unwelcome comments, or eviction threats based on your status or country of origin

If you are experiencing discrimination, document all communications or incidents. This evidence can help you if you decide to file a complaint.

What Protections Do Alberta Tenants Have?

The main law protecting against discrimination in housing is the Alberta Human Rights Act. The Act applies to anyone offering rental accommodation—including primary tenants subletting rooms. Discriminatory practices are not allowed at any stage: advertising, screening applicants, or managing tenancies.

While landlords can ask for references or proof of income, they must be consistent with all applicants. If they only ask immigrants or newcomers for extra documents or deposits, that may be discrimination. Get clear on your rights by reviewing the official guide: Alberta Human Rights in Housing.

What To Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you were treated unfairly due to your status or origin, Alberta has an official process for addressing this:

• Gather all evidence, such as emails, texts, notes on conversations, or rental advertisements.
• Reach out to the Alberta Human Rights Commission for help and to file a complaint if needed.
• Learn about your housing rights and obligations. Reviewing resources such as Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta can be helpful.

How to File a Human Rights Complaint in Alberta

The Alberta Human Rights Commission investigates discrimination claims related to rental housing. Here’s how to start:

• Step 1: Visit the Complaint Form (PDF) to download the Human Rights Complaint Form.
• Step 2: Complete the form with your personal information, details of your complaint, and attach your evidence.
• Step 3: Submit the completed form by email or mail, as instructed on the first page of the form. Find all details at the Commission’s File a Complaint page.

This process is free. The Commission will review your complaint, may contact the other party, and can offer mediation or an investigation. Tenants are protected from retaliation for filing a complaint.

Connection to Other Tenant Issues

Sometimes discrimination issues overlap with general tenant concerns, such as deposits, repairs, or communication problems. For detailed information about rights and responsibilities in Alberta, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If your dispute also includes unfair demands for extra deposits or fees, refer to Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Relevant Legislation in Alberta

• Alberta Human Rights Act (prohibits discrimination in housing)
• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) (outlines general tenant and landlord rights & responsibilities)

If housing issues escalate beyond discrimination claims—such as evictions or deposit disputes—they are generally handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

Other Ways to Address Roommate Issues

If the problem involves a roommate (not a landlord), sometimes discussion and written agreements can help prevent misunderstandings. For tips and resources on moving in with roommates or shared housing, use reputable sites, or Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Discrimination & Tenant Rights in Alberta Shared Housing

1. Can my landlord ask about my immigration status before renting to me?
   Landlords may verify your ability to pay rent but should not refuse you solely because of your immigration status. Asking for documentation is okay if applied consistently to all applicants.
2. What can I do if I think I was denied housing due to my country of origin?
   You can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission and should collect any evidence (emails, messages) that supports your claim.
3. Does the law protect roommates as well as renters on the lease?
   Yes. The Alberta Human Rights Act applies to anyone offering rental accommodation, including primary tenants who sublet rooms or choose roommates.
4. Where do I report discrimination in Alberta rental housing?
   You can file a complaint using the Human Rights Complaint Form at the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
5. Where can I learn more about all my rights as a tenant in Alberta?
   You can read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a detailed summary.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Discrimination based on immigration or citizenship status is illegal in Alberta rental housing, including shared accommodation.
• You have the right to file a free complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
• Document all incidents and learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Understanding your rights can help you feel secure and empowered when searching for or living in shared housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Commission: File or seek help with discrimination complaints (File a Complaint)
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): For tenancy disputes not related to discrimination
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Alberta Human Rights Act, see full text
2. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta), official legislation
3. Alberta Human Rights Commission, official website

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