Top 50 Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Questions in Alberta

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Alberta published: June 26, 2025 Flag of Alberta
What rights do tenants have in Alberta?
Tenants are protected under Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act, which covers rent, repairs, eviction, privacy, and more. See the official government site.
Can my landlord increase my rent?
Yes, but only once every 12 months, with 3 months' written notice for monthly tenancies.
How much notice is needed for a rent increase?
Landlords must give at least 3 full months' written notice for monthly tenancies.
What can I do if repairs are not being made?
You can request repairs in writing. If unresolved, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).
Can my landlord evict me without reason?
No, eviction must follow legal grounds and proper notice as per the Residential Tenancies Act.
What are valid reasons for eviction in Alberta?
Reasons include non-payment of rent, lease violations, or landlord's need for the property.
How much notice must my landlord give for eviction?
Notice periods vary: 14 days for non-payment or breaches, or 3 months for ending periodic tenancies without cause.
Can I be evicted during winter?
Yes, there are no restrictions on evictions during winter in Alberta.
What do I do if I get an eviction notice?
Check the notice for accuracy. You can dispute it through the RTDRS or court before the vacate date. See the eviction process page.
Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice?
No, unless it’s an emergency. Otherwise, 24 hours' written notice is required.
Is a written lease required in Alberta?
Leases can be written or verbal, but a written agreement is strongly recommended.
What information must be in my tenancy agreement?
It should state the parties, rent amount, frequency, term (fixed or periodic), and rules.
Can my landlord ask for a security deposit?
Yes, but it cannot exceed one month's rent.
When should I get my security deposit back?
Within 10 days after you move out, minus any proper deductions for damage or cleaning.
Can my landlord deduct money from my security deposit?
Yes, but only for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, or cleaning, with receipts provided.
What is considered normal wear and tear?
Reasonable deterioration from everyday use, not damage caused by neglect or abuse.
How do I end a month-to-month tenancy?
Give your landlord at least one full month's written notice.
Can my landlord end my tenancy without cause?
Yes, for a periodic tenancy with minimum 3 months’ written notice.
What happens if I break my lease early?
You may be responsible for unpaid rent and possibly other costs unless assigned or sublet with landlord approval.
Do I need my landlord's approval to sublet?
Yes, you must get your landlord’s written consent to sublet or assign your tenancy.
What if my landlord won’t make essential repairs?
You can apply to the RTDRS for an order to complete repairs. Document all requests in writing first.
How do I request repairs in writing?
Send a written letter or email describing the issue to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.
Does my landlord have to provide heat or hot water?
Yes, landlords must ensure essential utilities like heat, water, and electricity are provided as stated in the lease.
Who pays for repairs due to accidental damage?
Tenants are responsible for accidental or intentional damages they or their guests cause.
How can I dispute my landlord’s decision?
You can apply to the RTDRS or Provincial Court. See RTDRS.
What is the RTDRS?
The RTDRS (Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service) is Alberta's tribunal for resolving disputes. Learn more here.
How do I file a complaint with the RTDRS?
Submit an Application through their portal or in person. See official instructions.
What form do I use to give notice to end my tenancy?
Use the 'Tenant Notice to Terminate Tenancy' form. Download it here. Give to landlord in writing.
Do I need to clean when moving out?
Yes, the unit should be as clean as when you moved in, except for normal wear and tear.
Can my landlord restrict guests?
Generally, landlords can’t restrict reasonable guests, but you are responsible for their behavior.
How do I document the condition of my rental?
Complete a move-in and move-out inspection report with your landlord, including photos. Use the official Inspection Report.
Can my landlord prohibit pets?
Yes, unless the lease allows pets or you need a service animal for a disability.
What should I do if I experience harassment?
Document incidents and seek help from RTDRS or the police if it's severe.
Does my landlord need to provide receipts for my deposit?
Yes, landlords must provide a written receipt for your security deposit.
Can I refuse entry to my landlord?
You can if they have not given proper notice, unless there's an emergency.
What do I do if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
Request an itemized statement. If unresolved, apply to the RTDRS for recovery.
Is there a limit to rent increases?
There is no limit on the amount, but increases can only happen once every 12 months.
What does 'periodic tenancy' mean?
A tenancy with no set end date, usually month-to-month or week-to-week.
Who handles disputes between tenants and landlords?
The RTDRS or Provincial Court resolves these issues.
What is the Residential Tenancies Act?
It is the main law in Alberta governing rental housing. Read it here.
Can I stay if my landlord sells the property?
Your lease remains valid until proper notice is given by the new owner.
What can I do about noisy neighbors?
Report noise issues to your landlord and document all incidents.
Who pays utilities?
Check your lease; it must state which utilities are included or paid by you.
Can a landlord change the locks?
Only with your consent or after obtaining an order. You must get a new key immediately.
Do I have the right to privacy?
Yes, landlords must follow notice rules before entering your home.
What happens if my landlord dies?
The tenancy continues with the landlord’s estate or new property owner.
Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease?
Yes, at the end of a fixed-term lease, but sufficient notice may be required.
Can I ask for written proof of rent payments?
Yes, your landlord must provide a receipt upon request.
When can I apply to the RTDRS?
Whenever you have an unresolved dispute with your landlord, such as deposits, repairs, or notices.
What happens if I overpay rent?
You are entitled to a refund or rent credit for the overpayment.
Are verbal agreements enforceable?
Yes, verbal tenancy agreements are legally valid but can be harder to prove.
Where do I find official tenancy forms?
Get forms from the Alberta government forms page.

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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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