As a renter in Prince Edward Island, knowing your rights and steps to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) exposure can protect your health and household. This guide explains common CO sources in rental homes, detection and immediate actions if you suspect exposure, and what landlords are responsible for under PEI laws. You’ll find clear directions for requesting inspections or repairs, how to document problems and communicate safely with your landlord, plus when to involve emergency services or the provincial tribunal. Practical tips help tenants handle detectors, maintenance requests, and temporary relocation if a unit is unsafe. Keep records and forms handy so you can enforce your rights efficiently and confidently.
Understanding carbon monoxide in rental homes
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas produced by incomplete combustion. In rental properties, CO commonly comes from furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces and portable generators. Tenants should expect functioning CO alarms where required, and landlords must maintain fuel-burning appliances and flues in safe condition.
Common sources in rentals
- Furnaces, boilers and heating systems that are poorly maintained
- Gas stoves and ovens used for heating
- Fireplaces and wood stoves
- Portable generators or outdoor equipment used too close to the building
If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure: immediate steps
If you or anyone in your unit has symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion) or your CO alarm sounds, act immediately. Quick action protects health and creates a record you can use if the unit is unsafe.
- Leave the premises and get fresh air right away
- Call 911 or emergency services if anyone feels unwell
- Move to a safe location away from the building while waiting for responders
- Write down symptoms, times, alarm events and who was present
- Notify your landlord immediately and request an inspection and repair
- If the landlord does not act promptly, be prepared to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Board[2]
Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities in Prince Edward Island
Under PEI tenancy rules, landlords must ensure rental units are safe and fit for habitation, including maintaining fuel-burning appliances and ensuring required CO alarms are installed and working. Tenants can request repairs, document problems and ask for temporary relocation if a unit is unsafe. When a dispute arises, the Residential Tenancies Board is the designated body for hearings and orders, and official forms exist to start a complaint process.[2]
For guidance on health and building safety basics, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. For steps on emergency repairs and tenant rights during urgent situations, consult Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Official forms you may need and how to use them
Common official forms help you request repairs or start a dispute. Where possible, get the correct form from the Residential Tenancies Board and follow filing instructions.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Board (complaint form) — used when a landlord fails to fix a safety issue; for example, if CO alarms are missing and the landlord does not arrange service, use this application to ask the Board to order repairs or compensation. Link to official forms is available from the Board[2]
- Notice to Landlord / Request for Repair (local repair request form) — use this to give the landlord written notice asking for a specific repair and keep a copy as evidence if the issue continues
How repairs and inspections usually proceed
Once you report a suspected CO problem, landlords should arrange an inspection by a qualified technician and complete required repairs. If hazardous conditions are confirmed, you may be entitled to relocation until the unit is safe.
- Landlord arranges qualified inspection and fixes the root cause
- Tenant documents all communications and keeps records of any medical visits
- If unresolved, tenant files an Application with the Residential Tenancies Board[2]
FAQ
- How can I tell if carbon monoxide is present in my rental?
- Carbon monoxide is not visible or smelly; working CO alarms are the main warning. Symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness and confusion can also indicate exposure. If an alarm sounds or you have symptoms, leave and call emergency services.
- Who is responsible for CO alarms and appliance maintenance?
- Landlords are generally responsible for installing and maintaining required CO alarms and keeping fuel-burning appliances and ventilation in safe working order. Tenants should report faults promptly in writing.
- What can I do if my landlord won’t fix a suspected CO problem?
- Document your requests and any symptoms, seek emergency help if needed, and file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board if the landlord does not act. Keep records of inspections and technician reports.
How-To
- Recognize symptoms and alarm signals and leave the unit immediately
- Call 911 or emergency services and report possible CO exposure
- Document symptoms, times, alarm events and any conversations with the landlord
- Notify the landlord in writing requesting an inspection and repairs
- If the landlord does not act, file an Application with the Residential Tenancies Board and include your documentation
Key Takeaways
- Act immediately on CO alarms or symptoms by leaving and calling emergency services.
- Document everything: alarms, symptoms, communications and technician reports.
- Use official forms to request repairs and, if needed, to apply to the Residential Tenancies Board.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board (PEI) — official information and forms
- Prince Edward Island government — carbon monoxide and alarm guidance
- Prince Edward Island — renters and housing information
