Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I use a wheelchair?

No. This is discrimination based on disability, which is illegal under PEI’s Human Rights Act.

Does my landlord have to allow a service dog or emotional support animal?

If you require the animal due to a disability, the landlord must consider this a reasonable accommodation unless there is just cause to deny it.

What if my landlord refuses my request for a ramp?

Your landlord must evaluate if your request for a ramp is reasonable. If they refuse, ask for reasons in writing and consider applying to the PEI Human Rights Commission or Residential Rental Tribunal.

I think my landlord treats me unfairly because of my religion. What can I do?

Document your experiences and file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission if the issue cannot be resolved informally.

Where can I learn more about PEI tenant law?

See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for comprehensive guidance.

Discrimination and Accessibility FAQ for PEI Tenants

Discrimination & Accessibility Prince Edward Island published July 01, 2025

Understanding your rights as a tenant in Prince Edward Island is crucial, especially when it comes to discrimination and accessibility issues. Whether you're worried about how a disability may impact your rental experience or facing unfair treatment, it's important to know what protections exist and how to use them. This guide explains your legal safeguards under PEI's rental laws, what to do if you feel discriminated against, and how to request accommodations for accessibility.

Legal Protections Against Discrimination

In Prince Edward Island, the Human Rights Act protects tenants from discrimination based on:

Disability or physical ability
Race, colour, ethnic or national origin
Age
Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
Marital or family status
Religion, creed, or political belief
Source of income

Landlords generally cannot refuse to rent to you, evict you, or treat you differently because you belong to one of these protected groups.

Accessibility Rights and Reasonable Accommodation

Tenants with disabilities have the right to request "reasonable accommodation." This means asking your landlord for changes that help you use and enjoy your home—like installing a ramp, allowing a service animal, or modifying fixtures.

Landlords must consider requests seriously but do not have to agree if the change causes undue hardship (major cost, difficulty, or safety risk).
You may need to provide medical documentation supporting your request.

If a landlord denies an accommodation request, they must be able to justify their decision under the law.

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you have been discriminated against or denied a reasonable accommodation, you have the right to file a complaint.

Start by talking to your landlord to clarify the situation—sometimes misunderstandings can be resolved directly.
Document everything: keep copies of emails, letters, or notes from phone conversations.
If the issue is not resolved, you can file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission.
If discrimination affects your tenancy (e.g., threat of eviction or different rules), you can also contact the PEI Residential Rental Tribunal.

Be sure to check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for a clear summary of key tenant protections across the province.

Relevant Official Forms for Tenants

PEI Residential Rental Tribunal – Application Form (Form 2):
Use Form 2 if you want to apply for a hearing about discriminatory treatment, an accessibility complaint, or another rental dispute. Find the form and filing instructions on the PEI Residential Rental Tribunal's official forms page. For example, if your landlord refuses to allow your service animal despite documentation, use Form 2 to start a dispute process.
PEI Human Rights Commission – Complaint Form:
This form is for making a discrimination complaint (about housing or other services). Get the latest version and guidance from the complaint page on the PEI Human Rights Commission website. For instance, if you've been refused a rental for having children, you would use this form.

Rights and Responsibilities for Landlords and Tenants

All parties in a rental agreement have duties under the Residential Rental Act of PEI. Landlords must not discriminate, must allow reasonable accommodations, and must maintain safe, healthy rentals. Tenants also have duties, such as providing necessary documentation for accommodation requests and using their unit responsibly.

For a full overview of these rights and duties—including discrimination and accessibility issues—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Where to Find Accessible and Fair Housing

Finding a home that's accessible and welcoming can be challenging. Many Canadian platforms allow you to filter for accessible features—and you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide range of options.

FAQ

Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I use a wheelchair?
No. This is discrimination based on disability, which is illegal under PEI’s Human Rights Act.
Does my landlord have to allow a service dog or emotional support animal?
If you require the animal due to a disability, the landlord must consider this a reasonable accommodation unless there is just cause to deny it (like health or safety risks for others).
What if my landlord refuses my request for a ramp?
Your landlord must evaluate if your request for a ramp is reasonable. If they refuse, ask for reasons in writing—if you disagree, consider applying to the PEI Human Rights Commission or Residential Rental Tribunal.
I think my landlord treats me unfairly because of my religion. What can I do?
Document your experiences and file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission if the issue cannot be resolved informally.
Where can I learn more about PEI tenant law?
See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for comprehensive guidance.

How To: Filing a Discrimination or Accessibility Complaint in PEI

How do I file a complaint about discrimination in PEI rental housing?
1. Collect evidence such as emails or notes. 2. Try to resolve with your landlord first. 3. Complete and submit the appropriate complaint form to the Human Rights Commission or Residential Rental Tribunal.
How can I ask for a reasonable accommodation?
1. Prepare a written request explaining your needs and include medical documentation if required. 2. Send it to your landlord and keep a copy. 3. Follow up if you do not hear back within a reasonable time.
How do I apply for a hearing at the Residential Rental Tribunal?
1. Download Form 2 from the tribunal’s site. 2. Complete the form with details of your issue. 3. File it by email, mail, or in-person at their office.

Key Takeaways

PEI law protects tenants from discrimination and requires landlords to provide reasonable accommodation for disabilities.
Always document your communications and be aware of official forms and complaint routes.
You can reach out to the Human Rights Commission or Residential Rental Tribunal for help at any stage.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

PEI Human Rights Commission: File a discrimination complaint or get advice.
PEI Residential Rental Tribunal: Resolve tenancy disputes, access forms, and guidance.
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island: Detailed summary of rental laws and tenant supports.
Legal aid and tenant advocates: Available through community legal organizations if you need extra support.