Can Landlords Refuse Tenants on Assistance in PEI?

In Prince Edward Island, many renters depend on programs like social assistance, disability benefits, or government subsidies. If you're searching for a rental home, you might wonder: Can a landlord legally reject your application simply because you receive assistance? Understanding your rights as a tenant—and what to do if you face discrimination—is essential for finding and securing safe housing. This article explains the rules under PEI's Rental of Residential Property Act, how to handle discrimination, and where to get help if you need it.

Tenant Rights and Discrimination: The Basics

In PEI, landlords must follow rules that protect tenants from unfair treatment. Discrimination in housing is taken seriously and may be unlawful under the Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act as well as tenancy law. In particular, landlords are not allowed to reject an applicant or harass a tenant because of these protected grounds:

• Race, colour, ethnic or national origin
• Religion or creed
• Age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity
• Marital status, family status
• Disability
• Source of income (including government assistance programs)

Source of income protection means landlords generally cannot refuse your rental application if your income comes from assistance programs like:

• Social Assistance
• Disability benefits
• Old Age Security, EI
• Child support or similar income

For more information about these tenant and landlord obligations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Does Source of Income Discrimination Still Happen?

While the law protects tenants from this type of discrimination, some renters still encounter it in subtle or open ways. Landlords might ask what program your income comes from, or make comments about "voucher tenants" or "subsidy renters." Remember: Simply receiving assistance, on its own, is not a legal reason to deny you.

When Can a Landlord Refuse a Tenant in PEI?

Landlords are allowed to assess all applicants for things like creditworthiness, references, or demonstrated ability to pay rent—but they must apply these standards fairly to all applicants. Rejection must be based on legitimate criteria, not your source of income alone. If the landlord sets a minimum income threshold, it must be applied equally, regardless of whether income comes from a job or benefits.

To learn about your responsibilities and what comes next after signing a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Key Tip

If You Suspect Discrimination: What to Do

If you believe you've been rejected or treated differently because of your income source, consider these steps:

• Keep records—Get written reasons for your rejection (if provided), save emails or texts, and make notes of conversations.
• Contact the PEI Human Rights Commission—They receive and investigate complaints about discrimination.
• You can also contact the landlord and explain the law, sometimes misinformation can be resolved quickly.

Under PEI law, you have the right to apply to the Director of Residential Rental Property if your tenancy rights are denied.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

• Human Rights Complaint Form: Use this form to report source of income discrimination. Download and submit from the PEI Human Rights Commission website. Explain your situation, attach evidence, and submit by mail, email, or in person.

Legislation Protecting Tenants

Two key laws protect you:

• The PEI Human Rights Act (see full text), which prohibits discrimination in tenancies.
• The Rental of Residential Property Act, which outlines tenancy rights and dispute resolution.

The Director of Residential Rental Property is the official tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes in PEI. Learn how to apply here.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Although landlords cannot refuse you solely based on your income source, you will still need to provide information like:

• Proof of income (benefit statements or letters)
• References from previous landlords
• Consent for credit checks (if requested)

This can help demonstrate your reliability as a tenant. For more guidance on what to expect after securing a rental, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Want to expand your search across the country? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for more options and tips.

FAQ: Can You Be Rejected for Receiving Assistance in PEI?

1. Can a landlord in PEI turn me down just because I'm on social assistance or disability?
   No. It is illegal for a landlord to reject a tenant solely because their income is from assistance or disability benefits. They must consider all sources of income equally.
2. What can I do if I think I've faced discrimination?
   You can file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission. Keep any texts, emails, or notes as evidence and submit the Human Rights Complaint Form.
3. Are landlords allowed to ask about my income source?
   Yes, landlords may ask about your ability to pay rent and proof of income. However, they cannot reject you based solely on the fact that your income comes from government assistance.
4. What regular tenant obligations remain if I'm on assistance?
   All tenants, regardless of income source, must pay rent on time and follow the terms of their lease. You have the same rights and responsibilities as any tenant.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a PEI tenant?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for complete information on your legal protections.

Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants

• Landlords cannot refuse your application because you receive social assistance or disability.
• The PEI Human Rights Act protects renters against income source discrimination.
• If rejected, gather evidence and consider making a complaint to the Human Rights Commission.

Knowing your rights can help you confidently apply for housing and respond to unfair practices.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• PEI Human Rights Commission – File discrimination complaints, including over source of income.
• Director of Residential Rental Property – For tenancy advice, forms, and disputes.
• PEI Housing Services – Information and support programs.
• Community Legal Information: 1-800-240-9798 – Free legal guidance for tenants.

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1. See: Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act, s.2 and s.13 [Prohibited grounds].
2. PEI Rental of Residential Property Act – governs residential tenancies.
3. PEI Human Rights Commission – Forms and guidance for submitting discrimination complaints.
4. Director of Residential Rental Property – Tenancy dispute authority and resources.

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