Abandonment happens when a roommate leaves the rental unit without giving notice, paying rent, or informing the landlord or other tenants. This situation can create confusion about rent payments, responsibilities, and what happens next.
Is It Really Abandonment?
Signs your roommate has abandoned the unit usually include:
- Their personal property is mostly gone
- They stop paying rent or bills without explanation
- They do not respond to messages, or you can't contact them
- They turn in their keys or tell the landlord they have left for good
A tenant is considered to have abandoned the premises if it appears the premises have been vacated without a proper notice or agreement. In Alberta, this is addressed under the Residential Tenancies Act.[1]
Your Rights and Responsibilities After Abandonment
It's important to know what you (and the landlord) must do by law if a roommate abandons the unit. The rules depend on your rental agreement, who signed the lease, and if you are co-tenants or subtenants.
- Joint lease/co-tenants (all names on the lease): You are jointly responsible for rent and damages. If one roommate leaves, the others must cover the full rent unless you negotiate with the landlord.
- Separate agreements: Sometimes landlords make individual leases with each tenant, which may protect you from a roommate's actions.
- Subletting: If you sublet from your roommate, your status and rights may differ.
Read more about your legal duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
What Happens to the Security Deposit?
If you and your roommate paid a security deposit together, the landlord is not required to return your share until everyone legally ends the tenancy. If one person leaves, discuss with your landlord how the deposit will be handled. For an overview, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Official Steps: What to Do If Your Roommate Leaves
If you believe your roommate has abandoned the unit, take these steps:
- Document evidence of abandonment (empty room, messages, returned keys, etc.)
- Contact your landlord immediately in writing to make them aware of the situation
- Continue paying your share of the rent—failure to do so may affect your tenancy
- Negotiate with the landlord about next steps, such as finding a replacement roommate
Alberta landlords must handle abandonment according to the Residential Tenancies Act. They may choose to end the tenancy if rent is not fully paid or if the unit is clearly abandoned.
Forms the Landlord May Use
- Notice of Termination (Form RTB-10): Official government forms. If the tenancy is being ended due to abandonment, the landlord may serve written notice citing abandonment and next steps. This formalizes the end of tenancy under the law.
- Application to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): You or your landlord may apply to the RTDRS to settle disputes on deposits, rent, or responsibilities after abandonment.
For example, if the landlord tries to keep your deposit because your roommate left, you can apply to the RTDRS for a decision.
Who to Contact for Help in Alberta
If communication breaks down or you're unsure of your next steps, Alberta's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) can help tenants resolve conflicts legally, often without a lawyer.[2]
For more about your legal protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.
Need support finding a new place or roommate? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for listings in Alberta and other provinces.
FAQ: Roommate Abandonment in Alberta Rentals
- What qualifies as 'abandonment' of a rental unit in Alberta?
If a tenant moves out permanently without giving proper notice, paying rent, or communicating with the landlord or co-tenants, it may be considered abandonment under the Residential Tenancies Act. - Am I responsible for my roommate's share of rent if they abandon the unit?
If your name is on the lease, you may be liable for the full rent. Review your agreement and speak with your landlord about options. - What should I do with my roommate's belongings if they've left without notice?
Do not throw away or sell their belongings. Inform your landlord, who must follow legal procedures for abandoned property. - Can I find a replacement roommate right away?
Usually yes, but always ask the landlord and get any new roommate approved in writing. - Can I get my share of the security deposit back if my roommate abandoned the place?
Generally, the deposit is only returned after all tenants end the lease properly. You may need to apply to RTDRS if there is a dispute.
Summary: Key Steps for Tenants
- Contact your landlord immediately if your roommate abandons the unit
- Keep paying your share of rent to protect your tenancy
- Follow official procedures using the correct forms if you need to resolve a dispute
- Reach out for help from RTDRS if negotiations fail
In summary, stay informed, act quickly, and use legal resources designed for Alberta tenants sharing housing.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Apply online, get guides, or phone help (1-780-644-3000)
- Government of Alberta - Information for Tenants
- Tenant advocacy organizations (e.g., Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta)
- See: Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
- Official tribunal: Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
