When your rental building in Alberta is being converted into condominiums, it can feel overwhelming. As a tenant, understanding your rights and the process can help you feel more secure and prepared. Whether the new owner plans to occupy your unit or sell it, Alberta has specific rules and protections for tenants in this situation.

What Is a Condo Conversion?

A condo conversion happens when a landlord or property owner turns an existing rental apartment or building into individual condominium units. These units can then be sold rather than rented, which can affect tenants living in the building.

Your Rights During a Condo Conversion in Alberta

The main legislation that covers tenant protections and landlord obligations in Alberta is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)¹.

Here’s what you should expect if your building is being converted:

• Proper Written Notice: The landlord (or new condo owner) must give you the right amount of written notice if they require you to move out. In most cases, this will be a minimum of 365 days’ notice for condo conversions.
• Fixed-Term Leases: If you are on a fixed-term lease, you generally have the right to stay until your lease ends, even if the building is sold or converted. Month-to-month tenants are entitled to the proper notice period.
• Security Deposit: Your security deposit must be returned according to the rules, even if the building changes hands. For details on this, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Final Inspections & Moving Out: Before leaving, you are entitled to a final inspection and an itemized list of deductions from your deposit, if applicable. Read The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out for more guidance.

Specific notice periods and procedures protect tenants from abrupt eviction and ensure a fair transition.

Official Notice Requirements and Forms

In Alberta, if the owner intends to convert the building to condominiums, the tenant must be given at least 365 days’ written notice to vacate. This is to provide you with enough time to find alternate housing.

Four Important Things to Know

• The notice must be in writing and include details about the date by which you must move out.
• The notice must be signed by the landlord or their agent.
• If the landlord doesn’t give you proper notice, you do not have to move out.
• If you have not received the correct form, or if you believe your notice is invalid, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for help.

The official form to end the tenancy is called the Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy (Form 2).
Use it when your landlord formally requests that you vacate due to a condo conversion. For details, see the Alberta government’s Ending a Rental Agreement page.

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles disputes and you can find them at the official RTDRS website.

What If You Want to Stay?

If you wish to remain in your unit after a condo conversion, you may sometimes be able to negotiate a lease with the new owner—especially if your unit hasn’t been sold. However, the new owner is not required by Alberta law to offer you a new lease, and after the notice period, you may need to leave.

Moving Out After Condo Conversion: What Tenants Should Expect

Once you receive proper notice, plan your move accordingly:

• Arrange for your final inspection before moving out.
• Document the condition of the unit to help ensure your deposit is returned.
• Keep all records of communications and notices from your landlord.
• Refer to How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for tips on deposit returns.

If you believe your landlord did not follow the proper process or did not return your deposit, you may apply to the RTDRS for dispute resolution.

If You Have Additional Tenancy or Building Issues

Sometimes, issues like required repairs or sudden rent increases coincide with a condo conversion. To understand your responsibilities and how to resolve problems, check the basics in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Finding Your Next Home

Looking for new rental options? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for up-to-date listings and an easy search experience, no matter where you plan to move.

More Resources on Alberta Tenant Rights

For a complete overview of tenant law, processes, and protections in Alberta, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice must I get if my apartment building is turning into condos?
   Under Alberta law, tenants must receive at least 365 days’ written notice before they are required to move out due to a condo conversion.
2. Is my security deposit protected during a condo conversion?
   Yes. Your security deposit must be handled according to the rules set out in the RTA, regardless of ownership changes.
3. What if I don’t receive proper written notice?
   If you do not get the required written notice, you are not legally required to leave. You can file a complaint with the RTDRS for assistance.
4. Can I negotiate a new lease after conversion?
   You can ask the new owner about leasing, but they are not legally obligated to offer a new rental agreement after the notice period ends.
5. Where can I get official help if I have a problem?
   You can contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) or your local tenant resource centre for support.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• If your rental is converting to condos, you are entitled to at least 365 days’ notice in Alberta.
• Always check your written notice and keep a copy for your records.
• You can dispute incorrect notices or deposit issues through the RTDRS.

Being aware of your rights and documenting all communications will help protect you during a condo conversion transition.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act and Regulations
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – dispute forms, guidance, and support
• Service Alberta: Residential Tenancies Information – fact sheets, forms, and contacts
• Local tenant advocacy groups for free or low-cost advice

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
3. Ending a Rental Agreement – Government of Alberta

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