Top 50 Questions: Leases & Agreements for Alberta Tenants

Leases & Agreements Alberta published June 26, 2025 Flag of Alberta
What law covers rental leases and agreements in Alberta?
Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) governs leases and agreements.
Who enforces residential tenancy laws in Alberta?
The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) hears most disputes.
Do leases in Alberta have to be written?
No, but a written agreement is recommended for clarity and proof.
Must my landlord give me a copy of the lease?
Yes. Landlords must provide a signed agreement within 21 days.
What if my landlord won’t give me a copy?
You may withhold rent until it’s provided, but only after 21 days.
Can a lease require me to pay for repairs?
Tenants are only responsible for damage they cause, not regular wear and tear.
How much security deposit can my landlord charge?
Maximum is one month’s rent.
When does my security deposit have to be returned?
Within 10 days after tenancy ends unless you agree in writing to wait longer.
Can my rent be increased during a fixed-term lease?
No. Rent can’t increase during a fixed term.
How often can rent be increased?
Only once every 12 months for the same tenant.
How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
Three full months’ written notice is required.
Does Alberta limit how much rent can increase?
No. There is no percentage cap, but increases must follow notice rules.
Can my landlord change the terms of the lease before it ends?
No, unless you agree or the lease allows for changes.
What is a periodic tenancy?
It is a lease with no end date, renewing monthly or weekly.
How do I end a month-to-month lease?
Give at least one full month's written notice before the end of a tenancy month.
Do I need to give written notice to move out if my lease ends?
For fixed-term leases, notice is not required unless your lease says so, but it's best to confirm in writing.
Can my landlord make me sign a new lease every year?
Only if you agree to it. Fixed-term leases do not auto-renew.
What if my landlord sells the property?
Your lease and rights continue, unless you get proper notice to end tenancy.
Can my lease include no-pet or no-smoking clauses?
Yes, landlords can include these clauses in the agreement.
What if the lease is missing important details?
The RTA’s minimum standards apply, even if not stated in your lease.
Can my landlord ask for post-dated cheques?
Yes, but you do not have to provide them in advance for a periodic tenancy.
What forms do I use to give notice to move out?
Use the "Notice to Terminate a Residential Tenancy" form: Official Form. Give appropriate notice for your tenancy type.
What happens if I move out early?
You may owe the landlord for lost rent until a new tenant is found, unless there’s a legal reason to leave early.
Can someone else move in with me without the landlord's approval?
Not unless the lease allows or the landlord consents.
Is it legal to sublet my unit?
Only if allowed by the landlord and with written consent.
What is a fixed-term tenancy?
It’s a lease with definite start and end dates.
Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease?
Yes. Landlords do not have to renew a fixed-term lease.
Do verbal rental agreements count in Alberta?
Yes, they are legally binding, but harder to prove if a dispute happens.
Can a lease include a penalty for ending early?
Yes, if the amount is reasonable and in the agreement.
Can my landlord ask for more deposit later?
No. The security deposit can’t be increased after your tenancy starts.
What notice must my landlord give to end my tenancy?
It depends: 1 year for condo conversion, 3 months for employer-provided housing, 14 days for non-payment or breach, other cases vary.
Can my landlord visit or enter my unit without permission?
Only in emergencies or with 24 hours’ written notice.
What should I do if I disagree with a lease term?
Try to negotiate before signing. You may also contact the Consumer Contact Centre for advice.
Are there standard lease forms in Alberta?
Yes. The government supplies a sample: Residential Tenancy Agreement Sample.
What form do I use for a rent increase?
Landlords should use the "Notice of Rent Increase" form: Official Form.
What if there is no written lease?
The RTA still protects your rights; the law applies even with verbal agreements.
Can I break my lease if I feel unsafe?
You might qualify to end your lease early for family violence by applying for a Safer Spaces Certificate.
Can a landlord keep my deposit for normal wear and tear?
No. Only unpaid rent or damage beyond regular use can be deducted.
Does a landlord need a reason to end a periodic tenancy?
No, but proper written notice must be given.
Can my lease be cancelled if the property is foreclosed?
Usually, your rights under the RTA remain until you get proper notice from the new owner.
How can I dispute a lease or agreement issue?
You can apply to the RTDRS to resolve disputes.
Can I be charged for cleaning when I move out?
Only if you did not clean the unit to the same condition as at move-in, less normal wear.
What if my lease is lost?
Request a copy from your landlord or use correspondence and payment records to show tenancy terms.
Are roommate agreements covered by the RTA?
No. The RTA only covers tenants and landlords, not roommate-to-roommate matters.
Can the landlord raise rent for new tenants?
Yes. There are no limits on rent amount for new tenants starting a lease.
Can I use my deposit for my last month’s rent?
No. Deposits cannot be used for rent unless the landlord agrees in writing.
Are electronic leases valid in Alberta?
Yes, as long as all parties agree and can access a copy.
Can a landlord add fees (like for parking) mid-lease?
No, unless the agreement allows it or you consent in writing.
Where can I get help if I have a lease question?
Contact the Consumer Contact Centre or RTDRS for support.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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