Filing a Group Tenant Complaint in Prince Edward Island

If you and other tenants in Prince Edward Island are facing the same issue—such as unsafe conditions, unaddressed repairs, or improper rent increases—a group complaint can be a powerful way to make your voices heard. This guide explains how tenants can work together under PEI’s rental laws to file an official group complaint, step by step.

What Is a Group Tenant Complaint?

A group complaint is when two or more tenants who share the same landlord and are dealing with the same or very similar problem, team up to file a joint application with the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC)—the official tribunal managing residential tenancies in Prince Edward Island. This approach can lead to more efficient solutions and show your landlord the issue is widespread.

Relevant Legislation and Authority

Group complaints and all other tenancy disputes in Prince Edward Island are handled under the Rental of Residential Property Act (RRPA). The Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) oversees all rental disputes, orders, and hearings.^[1]

If you need a basic overview of your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

When Should Tenants File a Group Complaint?

You might consider a group complaint in situations such as:

• Multiple tenants experiencing maintenance or Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting (e.g., mold, pests, lack of heat)
• The same rent increase being issued to all units
• Shared building-wide disruptions (e.g., poor security, recurring noise problems, improper renovations)

By acting together, you may increase the chances of a faster and fairer resolution.

What Form Do You Use for a Group Complaint?

To file a group complaint with IRAC, tenants should complete the Form 2: Application by Lessee (Tenant). There is no separate "group" form—tenants simply list names and signatures of all participating tenants on the same application. Download Form 2: Application by Lessee (PDF) from the official IRAC website.^[2]

• When to Use: When tenants want to request an order for repairs, contest a rent increase, or resolve other disputes with their landlord.
• How to Complete: Each tenant involved lists their information and provides a signature. Clearly describe the shared problem and the action you’re seeking.

Step-by-Step: How to File a Group Complaint in PEI

Below is a summary of the main process tenants follow:

• 1. Gather Your Group: Confirm that all tenants affected by the same issue want to participate.
• 2. Document Your Issue: Collect evidence (emails to your landlord, photos, notices, etc.).
• 3. Fill Out Form 2: Each participating tenant fills in their information on Form 2 and signs.
• 4. Submit the Application: Deliver the completed form to the IRAC office. You can mail, deliver in-person, or email according to IRAC instructions. Always keep a copy for your group records.
• 5. Attend the Hearing: IRAC will contact you to schedule a hearing. All group members are encouraged to attend and speak about their experience.
• 6. Await the Decision: IRAC will issue an Order following the hearing. Group members receive a copy of the outcome.

Filing as a group is similar to an individual complaint but can create more impact and less duplicate paperwork. For general guidance on common rental issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Tips for a Strong Group Case

• Be clear and specific about the issue and how it affects each of you.
• Collect written or photographic evidence from multiple tenants.
• Stay organized—appoint one tenant as the main contact if possible.
• Communicate respectfully with your landlord and IRAC throughout the process.

IRAC encourages dispute resolution whenever possible before filing, but group complaints are a legal right under the RRPA if informal talks do not work.

What Happens After Filing?

Once filed, IRAC will review your complaint and notify the landlord. You will receive a Notice of Hearing. All tenants should prepare to attend and may be asked to present evidence. After the hearing, IRAC will issue a written decision to everyone involved.

Remember: No one can retaliate against tenants for exercising their rights to participate in a group complaint.

For more options and support, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you decide a move is needed after resolving your dispute.

FAQ: Group Complaints for Tenants in PEI

1. Can we file a group complaint if we live in different buildings owned by the same landlord? Only tenants sharing the same building or complex with the same specific issue should file together. Separate buildings usually require separate complaints.
2. Does every tenant need to attend the IRAC hearing? It’s best for all to attend, but one or more can represent the group. All signatures must be on the original Form 2.
3. Will filing a group complaint affect our tenancy? Landlords can’t evict or retaliate for a lawful complaint. If you believe this has happened, notify IRAC immediately.
4. Can we withdraw our complaint after submitting? Yes, but all tenants involved must agree and notify IRAC in writing before a decision is issued.
5. Where do I find more information about Prince Edward Island tenant rights? You can visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for more details.

Key Takeaways for Group Complaints in PEI

• A group complaint lets tenants join forces to address shared rental issues under PEI law.
• Use Form 2: Application by Lessee, include all signatures, and follow IRAC’s process for submitting and attending hearings.
• Document your issue, cooperate as a group, and use official resources for guidance.

For more tenant tips on handling complaints, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) – Rental Office: Learn more about processes, forms, and dispute resolution in PEI.
• Rental Application Forms (IRAC): Access and download all official tenancy forms.
• PEI Government Housing Information: Information on tenant programs, resources, and housing assistance.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island

---

1. See: IRAC - Rental Orders and Decisions
2. Find Form 2 on the IRAC Rental Application Forms page

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy