When you decide to move out of your rental in Alberta, giving proper notice to your landlord is a crucial first step. But what comes next? This guide explains what happens after you submit your notice, your rights and responsibilities, and how to ensure a smooth transition out of your rental home while protecting your deposit and ensuring compliance with Alberta laws.

What Does Giving Notice Mean in Alberta?

"Giving notice" means you formally tell your landlord in writing that you intend to move out of your rental. Whether you are on a monthly, weekly, or fixed-term lease, providing the correct notice is required under the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)¹. Notice periods typically depend on your rental agreement type, but most periodic tenants must give at least one full tenancy month's written notice before moving out. For fixed-term tenancies, you are generally expected to move by the end date stated in your lease, unless otherwise agreed.

What Happens After You Give Notice?

After your landlord receives your notice, several important steps and timelines follow under Alberta tenancy law. Here’s what tenants in Alberta should expect after submitting their written notice:

• Confirmation of Notice: The landlord may acknowledge receipt in writing or by email. Retain proof you submitted notice for your records.
• Preparation for Moving Out: Start preparing your unit for move-out, including cleaning, repairs, and arranging your own move. Many tenants find Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit helpful at this stage.
• Pre-move-out Inspection: By law, you and your landlord must schedule both a move-out inspection and an inspection report, ideally with you present. This is an important opportunity to review any cleaning or repairs needed.
• Final Rent and Utilities: Ensure you pay all applicable rent and utility bills until the end of your tenancy.
• Returning Keys: You are responsible for returning all keys and access devices by the agreed move-out date.

By following these steps, you maximize your chances of a peaceful move and speedy deposit return.

Required Forms: Notice to Terminate a Tenancy

Alberta does not require a government-issued form for tenant notice of termination, but your written notice must include:

• The address of the rental premises
• The date the notice is given
• The date you intend to move out (the effective date)
• Your signature

Submit this by hand, email, or registered mail and keep a copy. If you need to reference official guidelines, consult the Alberta Government’s Ending Your Rental Agreement page.

Inspections, Repairs, & Getting Your Deposit Back

The Move-Out Inspection

Both you and your landlord should perform a move-out inspection on or after the last day of your tenancy. This protects both parties by documenting the condition of the unit.

After the inspection, you should be provided with a copy of the inspection report. For a closer look at what’s involved and why it matters, see The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

Security Deposit Return

Assuming you leave the unit in good condition and provide your forwarding address, your landlord must return your security deposit (plus interest) within 10 days of the later of:

• The lease ending
• You providing your forwarding address

If any deductions (e.g., for damages beyond normal wear and tear) are made, the landlord must provide an itemized statement. Want to maximize your odds of a full refund? Check out How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Special Considerations: Fixed-Term vs. Month-to-Month Tenancies

Summary: Notice requirements and move-out processes can differ:

• Fixed-term tenancies: Usually end automatically on the agreed date, no notice needed unless specified by your agreement.
• Monthly/periodic tenancies: Written notice is mandatory—typically at least one full tenancy month before you leave.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Move-Out

• Document the condition of your rental with photos and videos before leaving.
• Settle any small repair or cleaning issues early to avoid deductions.
• Provide a forwarding address in writing to your landlord immediately after moving out.
• Read your lease—some require more notice or additional steps.

Key Legal Resources

• Tribunal: The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles most Alberta tenant–landlord disputes.
• Legislation: The Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
• Fact Sheet: For more information on your rights and obligations as a tenant, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Looking for your next place to stay? Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily and find your next home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice do I need to give to end my month-to-month tenancy in Alberta?
   Tenants must provide at least one full tenancy month’s written notice before moving out of a periodic (month-to-month) rental.
2. Do I get my security deposit back automatically in Alberta?
   No, your landlord must return your security deposit (plus interest) within 10 days after you move out and provide your forwarding address, minus any legitimate deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
3. Is a walk-through inspection required before moving out?
   Yes. Alberta law requires both move-in and move-out inspections. The landlord must give you a chance to participate and provide you with a signed inspection report.
4. What if I leave before my lease expires?
   If you want or need to move out early, your obligations may differ. Learn about your options in What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – File applications or resolve disputes with your landlord
• Alberta Service Consumer Tipsheets (Moving, Deposits, Inspections)
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta – Ending a Tenancy
• Contact Service Alberta – Landlord and Tenant Info Line (1-877-427-4088)

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1. See: Alberta Residential Tenancies Act – full text (Alberta Queen’s Printer)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta Government
3. Ending a Residential Tenancy – Official Alberta Resource

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