Top 10 Alberta Rental Safety and Security Facts for Tenants

Feeling secure in your Alberta rental is more than just your right—it's essential for your comfort and peace of mind. Whether you're renting for the first time or are an experienced tenant, understanding the latest safety and security facts will help you protect yourself, your family, and your belongings. This guide provides Alberta renters with crucial, actionable information about legal protections, landlord obligations, emergency plans, and more, all backed by Alberta's tenancy law.

Your Rights and Legal Protections in Alberta

Tenants in Alberta have clear rights to a safe and secure home. The Residential Tenancies Act sets out rules and obligations for both landlords and tenants.^[1] Under this law:

• Your landlord must provide rental premises that meet Alberta health and safety standards.
• Emergency exits, smoke detectors, and locks must be functional and maintained.
• Tenants can request urgent repairs if something compromises their safety.

For detailed information about general tenant and landlord obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

10 Must-Know Facts for Alberta Renters

1. Legal Right to a Safe Home: Landlords are legally required to keep rental units safe and healthy. This covers heating, plumbing, doors, windows, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and removal of hazards like mold.
2. Repairs and Emergencies: If you have an urgent safety issue (like a broken lock or fire hazard), report it to your landlord right away. For major, urgent problems, Alberta tenants can use the "Tenant Request for Repairs" form. Always document your request in writing for your records.
3. Fire Safety Standards: Rental units must comply with the Alberta Fire Code. Working smoke alarms are required. Ask your landlord when detectors were last tested or replaced.
4. Security of Entry Doors and Locks: You are entitled to functioning locks. Landlords cannot change the locks without your consent. If you need to change them for safety reasons, always request your landlord’s permission first.
5. Pest Infestations: If you discover pests that affect your health or safety, notify your landlord immediately for prompt action. For more details, read Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
6. Privacy and Notice of Entry: Landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your home, except in emergencies. Your right to privacy is protected by law.
7. Common Area and Building Security: Lobbies, hallways, and parking lots should have appropriate lighting and working locks. Report any concerns about shared spaces.
8. Unsafe Conditions and Complaints: If your landlord does not respond to safety concerns, you can file a formal complaint with Alberta Health Services or apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
9. Moving In Safely: When moving in, complete an inspection with your landlord to document the unit's condition—including safety features. Learn more in Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
10. Know Your Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with your building’s emergency exits, fire escape plans, and safety contact numbers. Store this information in an easy-to-access place.

Forms, Procedures, and Examples

Urgent Repair Request Form

• Form Name: Tenant Request for Repairs
• When to Use: If your unit has an urgent repair issue impacting safety (e.g., no heat in winter, broken lock, severe leak), notify your landlord in writing using this form.
• Where to Find: Tenant Request for Repairs (Alberta)
• Example: If your apartment's door lock won’t secure, fill out the form, submit it to your landlord, and keep a copy. If not fixed in a reasonable time, you may contact Alberta Health Services or apply to RTDRS for an order.

Dispute Resolution Application

• Form Name: RTDRS Application Form
• When to Use: If your safety concern remains unresolved, apply to the RTDRS to order repairs or terminate your lease.
• Where to Find: Apply to the RTDRS
• Example: After repeated written requests for a broken heater, with no response from your landlord, complete this application and submit it.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

Alberta law provides robust protections around your safety and security. Explore all your rights and responsibilities with Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Proactive Safety Tips for Tenants

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
• Keep exits clear of clutter.
• Store emergency contact numbers for building management and fire services.
• Use window and door locks consistently.
• Report suspicious activity to building management or authorities.

For more safety basics, check out Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Ready to explore your next safe home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and compare secure apartment and house listings easily.

FAQ: Alberta Rental Safety and Security

1. Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice?
   Except for emergencies, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental unit.
2. What if my rental unit has a safety hazard that isn’t fixed?
   First, notify your landlord in writing and allow reasonable time for repairs. If no action is taken, you may contact Alberta Health Services or apply to the RTDRS for help.
3. Are working smoke detectors legally required in Alberta rentals?
   Yes, smoke detectors are mandatory, and landlords must maintain them. Test yours regularly and inform your landlord of any issues.
4. How do I report building safety concerns?
   Submit the issue to your landlord in writing. If they do not address urgent safety problems, you may escalate to RTDRS or Alberta Health Services.
5. What steps should I take if I'm locked out due to a broken lock?
   Contact your landlord immediately. If not resolved urgently, document your communication and, if needed, file for repairs through the relevant Alberta form.

How To: Taking Safety Action in Your Rental

1. How do I request an urgent safety repair in Alberta?
   Notify your landlord in writing (using the Tenant Request for Repairs form). Keep a copy for your records. If not fixed promptly, escalate to the RTDRS.
2. How can I apply to RTDRS if my safety concerns aren’t addressed?
   Obtain the application form, gather your supporting documents (requests, photos), and submit it to the RTDRS for review.
3. How do I document safety conditions during the move-in inspection?
   During the inspection with your landlord, note and photograph any safety issues on the inspection report. Both parties should sign and keep copies.
4. What is the process to report persistent pest problems?
   Notify your landlord in writing and keep records. If not resolved, contact Alberta Health Services or file a dispute with RTDRS.

Key Takeaways

• Know your rights to a safe, secure rental under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act.
• Always report and document safety issues with your landlord promptly.
• Use official forms and, if needed, seek help from Alberta’s dispute resolution services to protect your safety.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act Overview
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Alberta Health Services – Environmental Public Health
• Renting in Alberta – Government Information
• For a full overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

---

1. See Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. RTDRS: Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service
3. Alberta Health Services: Environmental Public Health: Rental Housing

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy