Finding family-friendly housing is essential for many tenants in Prince Edward Island, but questions often arise about whether landlords can legally reject rental applicants simply for having children. Understanding your rights is key to making informed decisions in shared housing and rental situations.
Your Rights as a Tenant with Children in Prince Edward Island
In Prince Edward Island, landlords are not allowed to discriminate against tenants because they have children. Family status is a protected ground under both federal and provincial law, meaning rental advertisements or landlords that state "no children allowed" or reject applicants solely for having children are usually breaking the law.
The main law that protects tenants in PEI is the Rental of Residential Property Act[1]. It is enforced by the Residential Tenancy Office, which is the provincial tribunal for rental housing matters.
What Does "Family Status" Protection Mean?
"Family status" means the status of being related by blood, marriage, or adoption, and it protects individuals—including parents with children—from being unfairly treated in housing.
- Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because you have children.
- They also cannot evict or threaten to raise rent solely because your family grows.
- Restrictions such as "adults only" or "no kids allowed" in rental ads are usually prohibited unless the building is designated for seniors (such as 55+ housing).
To learn more about overall tenant and landlord rights in PEI, visit: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.
When Can a Landlord Legally Decline a Family?
There are only a few exceptions to these protections. For example, buildings legally designated as seniors-only residences, or where shared accommodation (such as renting out a single room in a landlord-occupied home) may have limited exceptions under human rights law. However, most traditional rental housing—apartments, houses, duplexes—must accept families with children on an equal basis.
What to Do If You Are Rejected Because You Have Children
If you believe you were refused a rental because of your children, you have the right to make a formal complaint. The PEI Human Rights Commission handles such discrimination cases. Keep notes of your interactions, save any written communication or advertisements, and act quickly—there are time limits for making a complaint.
Steps to File a Complaint for Discrimination
- Gather evidence: Save emails, messages, ads, and make notes of any conversations.
- Contact the PEI Human Rights Commission: Explain your situation and ask about the process.
- Complete the official complaint form: This form is called the PEI Human Rights Complaint Form (no number assigned). You can download it directly from the PEI Human Rights Commission website.
- Submit your complaint: The Commission will review your case and may contact you for further information or mediation.
It’s a good idea to keep all your original documents until your case is fully resolved. The Residential Tenancy Office can also guide you in understanding your rights as a tenant if discrimination is affecting your housing situation.
Making Your New Home Family-Ready: Practical Tips
When moving into a new rental with children, you can expect the landlord to provide the same standard for repairs, health, and safety as they would for any tenant. Families have the right to a safe and well-maintained home.
- Ask for a written rental agreement
- Make notes during the initial inspection
- Be aware of your rights regarding health and safety issues
If your landlord fails to address health hazards or maintenance concerns, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Looking for your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for options that fit every family size and budget.
More on Shared Housing and Family Arrangements
Shared rentals can be an affordable choice for families, but all the rights regarding children apply equally. If you’re joining a roommate arrangement, make sure everyone is clear on expectations and that the landlord agrees to a family living situation. For a detailed overview, see: Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
FAQs: Tenant Rights and Landlords Rejecting Families in PEI
- Can a landlord refuse my application because I have children?
No, in almost all cases, this is discrimination under PEI law. Exceptions apply only to officially designated seniors’ residences. - What should I do if a landlord says no children allowed?
Document the incident and file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission as soon as possible. - Is it legal for roommates to exclude children?
If all tenants are signing the lease together, landlords generally can't exclude families with children, but group living arrangements might have unique dynamics. Consult the Tenancy Office if unsure. - Do my kids' ages matter in rental applications?
No. Your right to rent does not change based on whether your children are infants, toddlers, or teens. - Is the landlord responsible for making my rental unit childproof?
The landlord is responsible for keeping the unit safe and in good repair, but you may need to take basic childproofing steps within your own space.
Key Takeaways for Tenants in PEI
- Landlords cannot reject you for having children, with few narrow exceptions.
- Document any suspected discrimination and file a complaint quickly if needed.
- Always review your lease and know your rights regarding family status.
Knowing your rights keeps you confident and prepared in your search for rental housing with children in Prince Edward Island.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- PEI Human Rights Commission – (902) 368-4180
- PEI Residential Tenancy Office – rental disputes, tenancy forms, and legal information
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island
- Full text: Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI)
- To file discrimination complaints: PEI Human Rights Commission – Complaint Form
- Tenancy rights info: PEI Residential Tenancy Office
