Leases & Agreements Checklist for PEI Tenants (2024 Guide)

Signing a lease in Prince Edward Island (PEI) is an important milestone for every tenant. Understanding the process, required legal forms, and your rights helps protect you before and after you move in. This practical, up-to-date checklist covers everything tenants should confirm when renting in PEI.

What Should Be in Your Prince Edward Island Lease?

In PEI, most tenancies are governed by the Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Leases can be written, oral, or implied—however, a written agreement is highly recommended. Always confirm your lease includes:

• Names and contact details of both tenant(s) and landlord
• Property address
• Start and end date (for fixed-term leases)
• Amount of rent, due date, and accepted payment methods
• Deposit amount and terms (including receipt)
• Rules on subletting, pets, smoking, and other special terms
• Details about utilities and who pays for each

Some orally agreed tenancies are legal, but a written lease avoids misunderstandings.

Before You Sign: Essential Pre-Lease Steps

• Inspect the unit (ideally with the landlord); consider photos for future reference
• Ask for and review the official lease (see below for forms)
• Request a receipt for any deposit and all payments made
• Confirm the policy on rent increases and notice requirements
• Understand what repairs and maintenance you and the landlord are responsible for

For more information on inspections, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Deposits and First Rent Payment

In PEI, landlords can only request a security deposit up to one month's rent, and must provide a receipt. Only one security deposit may be held at a time, and it must be returned with interest under certain conditions. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Official Forms You’ll Need

• Standard Form of Lease (Form 2):
  Rental Unit Lease Agreement (Form 2) is the official template for most PEI rental agreements. Landlords must use this form for new tenancies.
  Example: Jenny signs a one-year lease for an apartment; her landlord provides Form 2 outlining rent, rules, and both parties’ signatures.
• Security Deposit Receipt (Form 3):
  Security Deposit Receipt (Form 3) is legally required when a deposit is accepted.
  Example: When Adam pays his deposit, his landlord gives him a completed and signed Form 3 as proof.
• Condition Report (Form 4):
  Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report (Form 4) should be completed jointly at move-in and move-out.
  Example: Ellen and her landlord walk through the unit together, noting any pre-existing damage on Form 4.

Who Handles Disputes and Forms?

Any disputes or applications (such as for repairs, termination, or return of deposit) go to the Residential Rental Property Tribunal, PEI’s official board for tenant-landlord matters.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have obligations under PEI law. Tenants must pay rent on time, care for the property, and abide by lease terms. Landlords must keep the unit in good repair, respect privacy (24-hour notice required for entry), and follow the law for rent increases and ending a tenancy.

For more on the obligations of both parties, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Common Problems: What If Something Goes Wrong?

Disputes may arise regarding damage, repairs, rent increases, or the return of deposits. Document everything and use the tribunal’s official forms to resolve issues. For more on your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

What to Check After Signing

• Keep a copy of the signed lease and any condition reports
• Set reminders for rent due dates and required notice periods
• Understand the process if you need to move out before lease-end

Read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for practical next steps after your lease is signed.

Online Tools for PEI Tenants

Renters can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for verified listings and compare options before agreeing to a lease.

1. Do I need a written lease in PEI?
   Written leases are not required by law, but are strongly recommended for your protection. Landlords must use the official Form 2 for new agreements.
2. How large can my security deposit be?
   The security deposit cannot be more than one month's rent. You must receive a receipt (Form 3).
3. What if repairs are needed after moving in?
   Notify your landlord in writing. If not resolved, you may apply to the Residential Rental Property Tribunal.
4. Who keeps the keys at move-in?
   Landlords must provide keys for your exclusive use. Do not pay extra fees for copies unless you lose them.
5. How can I confirm my rights if a problem arises?
   Always refer to your signed lease, file documentation, and the Landlord and Tenant Act.

1. How do I apply to the Residential Rental Property Tribunal if I have a dispute?
   
   • Download the right application form from the Tribunal website
   • Fill in your details and describe the issue clearly (e.g., return of deposit, repairs required)
   • Submit the form by mail, in person, or electronically as instructed
   • Include evidence such as lease copies, payment receipts, and photos
   • Wait for a response and Tribunal hearing date
2. How can I make sure my deposit is returned?
   
   • Complete a move-out inspection using Condition Report (Form 4) with your landlord
   • Leave the unit clean and undamaged
   • Request the return of your deposit in writing; if not returned, apply to the Tribunal
3. How do I confirm all lease terms are legal?
   
   • Compare your lease to Form 2, the official PEI lease template
   • If unsure, contact the Tribunal or a tenant support service for guidance

Key Takeaways for PEI Renters

• Use PEI’s official lease forms to protect your rights
• Security deposits are capped and must be receipted
• Document everything, especially at move-in and move-out

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Rental Property Tribunal (PEI) – applications, forms, dispute resolution
• PEI Government: Rental Unit Leases Overview
• Free tenant advice: PEI Family Legal Aid or community legal clinics
• For quick reference, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island

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1. Landlord and Tenant Act, PEI
2. Residential Rental Property Tribunal
3. PEI Government: Rental Unit Leases

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