What If You Don’t Pay the New Rent Amount in Alberta?

For tenants in Alberta, rent increases can be stressful—especially if your budget is already tight. If you’re facing a new rent amount you can’t afford or have questions about your rights after a rent hike, it’s important to know both your options and what might happen if you don’t pay.

When Can Your Rent Be Increased in Alberta?

Landlords in Alberta can only raise rent once every 12 months for the same tenant. They must provide written notice of the increase:

• At least 3 full months for month-to-month tenants
• At least 12 weeks for week-to-week tenants
• With proper notice timing for fixed-term leases (increases usually only take effect at renewal)

Rent increases must follow rules in the Residential Tenancies Act.^[1]

If You Don’t Pay the Increased Rent

If you don’t pay the new rent after a valid increase notice, your landlord views the amount unpaid as rent arrears. Here’s what may happen:

• Your landlord may give you a written notice for unpaid rent.
• If you don’t pay within the required timeframe, your landlord can start the eviction process.
• The landlord is allowed to apply to Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or the Provincial Court to end the tenancy and recover unpaid rent.

Required Forms and Notices

Landlords usually start by serving a 14-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy for Unpaid Rent. This official written notice must include:

• The amount of rent owed
• A statement that the tenancy will end in 14 days if not paid in full
• The date the notice is given

If you receive this notice, you still have the right to pay the owed amount within 14 days and prevent eviction.

What Can Landlords Do If You Don’t Pay?

Landlords have clear paths if you don’t pay rent after an increase:

• They may serve a 14-day termination notice as outlined above.
• If you remain or don’t pay, landlords can file an application through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or with the Provincial Court for eviction and to recover the unpaid rent.^[2]
• The process is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act.

For more on your rights regarding rent and payment, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Eviction Process Summary

• Notice period: 14 calendar days from notice date
• If outstanding rent is paid in full before the notice expires: The notice is void
• If rent is not paid: The termination takes effect; landlord may seek a court or RTDRS order if you do not leave

For a full overview of tenant and landlord rights in Alberta, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Common Tenant Concerns

• Can a landlord raise rent without notice? (No, they must give written notice as described above.)
• Is a verbal notice enough? (No, it must be in writing.)
• Are there limits on rent increase amounts in Alberta? (No, Alberta does not cap rent increases, but timing and notice rules must be followed.)

If any part of the process feels unfair, or if you believe the landlord has failed to properly fulfill their duties, you can learn more in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Should You Do If You Can’t Afford the New Rent?

• Contact your landlord immediately to discuss payment options or extensions.
• Look into government rent assistance or affordable housing programs.
• Review community supports that might offer emergency help.
• You may need to start looking for a more affordable home—remember, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Staying aware and exploring your options early is the best way to avoid stress and possible eviction.

FAQ: Alberta Tenants and Rent Increases

1. Can my landlord evict me if I only pay the old rent amount?
   Yes. If you pay less than the new rental amount due after a valid increase, your landlord may issue a 14-day eviction notice for unpaid rent.
2. Is there a maximum rent increase in Alberta?
   No, there are no rent caps in Alberta, but there are strict notice rules your landlord must follow.
3. What if I get a rent increase notice that doesn’t follow the rules?
   The rent increase may be invalid. Document everything and seek advice from the RTDRS or a tenant support agency before withholding payment.
4. Can I apply for rental assistance if I can’t afford the new rent?
   Yes. Numerous programs exist to help tenants in Alberta. Reach out to local housing agencies, your municipality, or the Government of Alberta’s affordable housing services.
5. What happens if I pay the full past-due rent after getting an eviction notice?
   If you pay all outstanding rent before the notice period ends, the eviction notice becomes void, and you keep your home.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• If you don’t pay the new rent after a valid increase in Alberta, you risk eviction. Open communication and seeking help early is crucial.
• Landlords must follow strict notice and timing rules regarding rent increases and evictions.
• Always act quickly, review your options, and use resources like the RTDRS or tenant support organizations if you need advice.

Knowing your rights and responsibilities can save you time, money, and stress down the line.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — Dispute rent increases, eviction, and other tenancy issues
• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) — Read the full tenancy law in Alberta
• Alberta Affordable Housing Programs — Official programs for rent assistance
• Community Legal Clinics Alberta — Free legal help for eligible tenants
• For a quick summary of rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

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1. Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service: RTDRS Official Website

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