Does tenant insurance in PEI cover guest injuries?

Yes, most tenant insurance policies in PEI provide liability coverage if a guest is injured in your rental, covering legal and medical costs up to the policy limit.

Am I responsible if a guest is injured due to something my landlord hasn’t fixed?

If you have reported the hazard and it's your landlord’s responsibility, you are typically not liable. If you failed to report it, you could share some responsibility.

Can a landlord require tenants to have insurance in PEI?

While not required by PEI law, landlords can require tenant insurance as a condition of the lease agreement.

Are Tenants Liable for Guest Injuries in PEI Rentals?

Tenant Insurance & Liability Prince Edward Island published: June 20, 2025

Inviting friends and family to your rental in Prince Edward Island is a big part of feeling at home. But accidents happen—what if a guest is injured while visiting? As a tenant, you may wonder about your legal responsibilities and liability. Understanding your obligations under Prince Edward Island law can help protect both you and your guests. This guide explains tenant liability for guest injuries, tenant insurance, and what to do if an accident occurs in your PEI rental.

Understanding Tenant Liability for Guest Injuries in PEI

As a tenant in PEI, you have a duty to make sure your rental is reasonably safe for visitors. If a guest gets hurt due to unsafe conditions you control—like cluttered hallways, spills, or hazards you should have fixed—you may be held liable for their injuries. However, if a problem is your landlord's duty (such as major structural repairs), then the responsibility may shift.

Legal Obligations Under PEI Tenancy Laws

The Residential Rental Property Act (PEI) governs renter and landlord responsibilities. Tenants are expected to:

Keep their rental unit reasonably clean and safe
Promptly report major hazards (like broken stairs or faulty wiring) to the landlord
Avoid creating dangerous situations that could harm guests

If an injury is caused by a problem you caused or ignored, you could be legally responsible.

Common Causes of Guest Injuries and Tenant Responsibility

Slips and falls on wet or cluttered floors
Accidents caused by loose rugs or exposed cords
Burns or shocks from malfunctioning appliances (if provided and maintained by the tenant)

Maintaining a safe home isn’t just about preventing injuries, it’s also vital for fulfilling your obligations as a tenant. Learn more about your duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How Does Tenant Insurance Protect You?

Tenant insurance, sometimes called renters’ insurance, usually includes liability protection. If someone is injured in your rental and sues you for damages, tenant insurance can:

Cover legal costs and settlements, up to your policy limit
Protect you from financial burden if found liable
Offer additional living expenses if your home becomes unlivable after an incident

Though not legally required in PEI, having tenant insurance is strongly recommended. It offers peace of mind for accidents, theft, and damage to property.

Tip: Always review your policy details and notify your insurer when situations change, such as taking in long-term guests or subletting.

What to Do If a Guest is Injured in Your Rental

If an accident occurs, quick and proper action is crucial:

Help your guest get medical attention
Document the incident—take notes and photos of where and how the injury happened
Report serious injuries or hazards to your landlord in writing
Notify your tenant insurance provider as soon as possible

Official Forms and Reporting Procedures in PEI

The rental tribunal in PEI is the Director of Residential Rental Property (PEI). If the injury involves a major hazard (like broken stairs or a dangerous appliance) that the landlord is responsible for repairing, submit a written repair request:

Form: Maintenance or Repair Request (no official standardized province-wide form—report in writing by letter or email)
When to Use: If you find a hazard that could injure someone and it's your landlord's responsibility to fix
How: Briefly describe the problem, request repairs, and keep a copy for your records. See the Director of Residential Rental Property site for more info

If your landlord does not address the issue, you may apply to the tribunal using a Form 2: Application by Lessee (Tenant):

Form 2: Application by Lessee (Tenant)
Use this if your landlord refuses to carry out safety repairs after you've asked for them in writing
Fill out and submit Form 2 to the Director of Residential Rental Property, outlining your complaint and steps taken

Detailed steps and advocacy help can be found in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

PEI Tenant and Landlord Rights

Both you and your landlord have rights and responsibilities regarding rental safety, repairs, and who is liable for accidents. For a full overview tailored to Prince Edward Island, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Quick Tips for a Safer Home

Regularly inspect your home for hazards like rugs or loose cords
Report urgent repairs to your landlord immediately
Clarify insurance coverage with your provider

Having a safe rental is part of enjoying your home and inviting guests with confidence. For those looking for a new apartment or rental in PEI, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQs About Tenant Liability and Guest Injuries in PEI

Does tenant insurance in PEI cover guest injuries?
Yes, most tenant insurance policies offer liability coverage that helps with medical or legal costs if a guest is injured in your rental.
What should I do immediately if a guest is hurt in my PEI rental?
Make sure your guest receives medical attention, document the scene, and notify your landlord and insurance provider as soon as possible.
Am I responsible if a guest is injured because of something my landlord hasn't fixed?
Generally, your landlord is responsible for major repairs. However, you must notify your landlord promptly of any hazards. If you haven't reported it, you could share some liability.
Can my landlord require tenant insurance in PEI?
Yes, while not legally required by the province, landlords can include a tenant insurance requirement in your lease agreement.
Where can I learn more about tenant and landlord safety obligations in PEI?
For an overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

PEI tenants have a responsibility to keep their rentals safe for guests
Liability for guest injuries depends on the cause and who controls the hazard
Tenant insurance is a valuable safety net for unexpected accidents

Staying informed protects you, your guests, and your financial security.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Director of Residential Rental Property (PEI) — official tribunal for rental disputes and safety issues
Form 2: Application by Lessee (Tenant) — apply for repairs or safety orders
Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island