Legal Rent Increases in Prince Edward Island: Tenant Guide

Are you a tenant in Prince Edward Island concerned about a recent or upcoming rent increase? Understanding PEI’s rules can help you feel confident that your landlord is following the law. This guide explains how to verify if your rent increase is legal, points you to the right government forms, and gives you practical steps if you think your rights have been violated.

Who Regulates Rent Increases in Prince Edward Island?

In PEI, residential tenancies are overseen by the Director of Residential Rental Property, a part of the provincial government. The key legislation is the Rental of Residential Property Act1, which sets out both tenant and landlord rights.

What Are the Rules for Rent Increases in PEI?

Landlords in Prince Edward Island must follow specific legal requirements when increasing rent. The rules are designed to protect tenants while providing landlords clarity about what’s permitted.

  • Annual Maximum Increase: The province sets a maximum percentage increase each year. For 2024, the allowed increase is 0% unless the landlord has special approval from the Director of Residential Rental Property.
  • Notice Period: Your landlord must give you at least 3 months’ written notice before a rent increase.
  • Frequency: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.

If a landlord wants to increase rent above the annual guideline, they must formally apply for approval and provide supporting documents.

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How to Check If Your Rent Increase Is Legal

To determine if your rent increase complies with PEI law:

  • Verify that at least 12 months have passed since your last increase
  • Check whether the notice was given in writing and at least 3 full months before the new rent is to start
  • See if the percentage increase matches the current guideline (0% in 2024), unless there’s an approved exception
Tip: Not sure about your rights or responsibilities? See Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for a clear overview of how increases work in Canada.

Official Notice: Form 10 "Notice of Rent Increase to Tenant(s)"

Your landlord must use Form 10: Notice of Rent Increase to Tenant(s) (download here). Here’s what you should know:

  • This form must state the old rent, new rent, date of increase, and be signed/dated by the landlord
  • It must be given to the tenant at least three months before the increase takes effect

Example: If your rent increase is set for August 1, you must receive the notice by April 30 of that year.

What If the Notice or Amount Is Incorrect?

If your landlord did not use the correct form, gave less than three months’ notice, or is increasing rent above the legal limit without Director approval, you have the right to contest the increase.

Keep all documents and notices you receive. These are essential if you need to challenge the increase.

Disputing an Illegal Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase is not legal, you can file a complaint with the Director of Residential Rental Property. The official form is:

Use this form to apply to the Director for a review. You will need to describe the issue and attach a copy of the notice you received. The Director will investigate and may hold a hearing.

Related Tenant Rights and Resources

For a broader understanding of your rights under PEI law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island. You may also find it helpful to read about Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for general information about rent increases across Canada. If you’re new to renting or want to prepare for possible increases, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you’re searching for a new affordable rental home in PEI or elsewhere, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQs: Rent Increases in Prince Edward Island

  1. How much can my landlord increase the rent in PEI for 2024?
    For 2024, the maximum allowable rent increase is 0% unless the landlord has special approval from the Director of Residential Rental Property.
  2. Does my landlord need to give me notice before a rent increase?
    Yes, your landlord must provide at least three months’ written notice before increasing your rent. The notice must be in the prescribed format (Form 10).
  3. Can my landlord raise the rent more than once a year?
    No. Under PEI law, rent can only be increased once in any twelve-month period.
  4. What should I do if I believe my rent increase was illegal?
    Complete Form 2: Application by Tenant to Director and file it with the Director of Residential Rental Property. Attach the notice you received and outline your reasons for disputing the increase.
  5. Is there any situation where rent can go up more than the guideline?
    Yes, but only if the landlord applies for and receives special approval from the Director. You will be notified if such an application is made.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  • Rent increases in PEI are strictly regulated—most years, increases are limited or banned
  • You must receive at least three months’ notice via the official notice form
  • If you believe a rent increase is illegal, you have clear steps and official forms to help you challenge it

Staying informed about your rights ensures you are protected from unlawful rent increases and gives you peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Rental of Residential Property Act, Government of Prince Edward Island
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.