Top 5 Eviction Facts Every Alberta Tenant Should Know

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Alberta, understanding the eviction process can help you protect your rights and avoid unnecessary stress. Whether you’re facing late rent concerns, disputes, or curious about what your landlord can and can’t do, this guide covers the top five things every Alberta tenant should know about evictions—based on up-to-date laws and official government sources. Familiarizing yourself with these facts can empower you to respond confidently if you ever receive an eviction notice and help ensure a fair process.

1. Reasons a Landlord Can Evict a Tenant in Alberta

Alberta landlords must follow the rules in the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. The most common legal reasons for eviction include:

• Not paying rent on time
• Causing damage to the property or disturbing others
• Breaking rules in the rental agreement (such as keeping unauthorized pets)
• The landlord needs the property for personal use (in specific cases)

Your landlord cannot evict you simply because you complain about repairs or ask about your rights. They must have a valid reason as outlined in Alberta law.

2. Proper Notice Is Required—Verbal Notices Don’t Count

For most types of eviction, your landlord must give proper written notice. This notice needs to be:

• In writing, with your name and the property address
• Dated and signed by the landlord
• State the reason for eviction and the date your tenancy will end

Common required notice periods:

• For non-payment of rent: 14 days’ written notice
• For damaging property or disturbing others: 14 days’ written notice (can be shorter for serious safety issues)
• For ending a month-to-month lease for general reasons: 3 months’ written notice

Always check that the notice you receive meets these requirements. If it doesn’t, the eviction may be invalid.

3. Responding to an Eviction Notice: Your Next Steps

If you get an eviction notice you believe is unfair, review it carefully. The 14-Day Eviction Notice for non-payment is void if you pay your rent in full before the notice period ends (unless you’ve received 3 notices in the past 12 months).

Disagree with the notice? You can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)^[2] or Alberta Courts to challenge the eviction. This can pause the process until a decision is made.

For issues related to obligations of both parties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

4. Official Forms You May Encounter

Evictions in Alberta require specific forms. Key examples include:

• 14-Day Notice to Terminate a Tenancy: Used when rent is unpaid, or for serious breaches. If you receive this, check the reason listed and respond promptly. See the official 14-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy form (Government of Alberta).
• Application to RTDRS: If you wish to challenge an eviction, apply using the Application for Dispute Resolution form (RTDRS Form 1). For example, if you think your landlord’s notice is invalid, submit this form along with relevant evidence.

These forms are processed by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), Alberta’s official tribunal for tenancy disputes.

5. What Happens if You Don’t Move Out?

If you stay past the eviction date, your landlord cannot just change the locks or remove your belongings. They must get a court or RTDRS order for possession. Only a civil enforcement agency (bailiff) can remove tenants—never the landlord alone.

For more about your legal protections and the complete eviction process, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t ignore court or tribunal notices—respond promptly
• Ask your landlord for written communication about any notices
• Reach out to Alberta tenant advocacy resources early if you need help

For other rental issues such as moving out and getting your deposit returned, check out How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

For those considering a move, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings with helpful tools to find your next home across Canada.

1. Can a landlord evict me without going to court in Alberta?
   Most evictions require proper written notice first. If you don’t move out voluntarily, your landlord must apply to the RTDRS or Alberta courts to get a formal order before you can be forced to leave.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give to evict me?
   For late rent or serious breaches, it’s typically 14 days’ notice. For ending a periodic (month-to-month) lease for non-fault reasons, it’s 3 full months’ notice.
3. What should I do if I think my eviction notice is unfair?
   Gather evidence (emails, letters, photos), then apply as soon as possible to the RTDRS for dispute resolution. Respond in writing to your landlord so you have a record of your position.
4. Can I stop an eviction by paying my overdue rent?
   Yes, for unpaid rent, if you pay in full within the 14-day notice period. But if you’ve received 3 notices for late rent in the past year, you may be evicted even if you pay.
5. Is there government help for tenants facing eviction in Alberta?
   Yes, you can seek advice from Alberta’s RTDRS, legal aid clinics, or tenant advocacy organizations listed below.

1. How do I challenge an eviction through RTDRS?
   
   • Obtain and complete the RTDRS "Application for Dispute Resolution" form.
   • Attach supporting documents, such as your tenancy agreement and the eviction notice.
   • Submit the form to RTDRS (in person or online) and pay the filing fee.
   • Attend the hearing, bring your evidence, and explain your situation.
2. How do I know if my landlord’s eviction notice is valid?
   
   • Review the notice for the required elements: written, dated, state reason, correct notice period.
   • If in doubt, contact RTDRS or a tenant support service for review.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Act (Legislation)
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta's official tribunal for tenancy matters
• Alberta Landlords and Tenants Information
• Tenant support: Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (RSA 2000, c. R-17.1)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

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