PEI Tenant Maintenance and Repairs Checklist (2024)

Living in a rental property in Prince Edward Island comes with important maintenance and repair rights and responsibilities. Knowing what to expect, what’s required of you, and how to address issues quickly can help protect your comfort and safety—and your legal standing under PEI’s rental laws.

What Maintenance Is Required in Prince Edward Island Rentals?

Under the Rental of Residential Property Act of Prince Edward Island^[1], both landlords and tenants have legal obligations to keep the rental safe and in good repair.

• Landlords are responsible for major repairs, structural elements, heating, plumbing, electrical, and keeping the property safe and healthy.
• Tenants must keep their unit reasonably clean, avoid damage, and promptly report needed repairs.

For a full list of legal rights and obligations in PEI, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Key Maintenance Areas for Tenants to Monitor

• Heating/cooling: Report any failures right away during cold or hot months.
• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms: Should always work; let your landlord know if not.
• Plumbing (toilets, faucets, showers): Watch for leaks or blockages and report them quickly.
• Mold, pests, and safety hazards: Bring these up promptly to protect your health.
• Locks and security: Your doors and windows should be secure.

If you’re concerned about health, safety, or structural issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Tenants

Use this maintenance checklist to stay on top of your responsibilities and know when you need to contact your landlord or the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC), PEI's residential tenancy authority^[2].

• At move-in:
  • Do a walk-through inspection and note any existing damage
  • Test all appliances and utilities
  • Check windows, doors, smoke alarms, and general cleanliness
• During tenancy:
  • Keep the unit tidy and avoid damage
  • Report maintenance problems in writing, with photos if possible
  • Follow up if repairs aren’t done within a reasonable timeframe
• Preparing to move out:
  • Return the unit in similar condition to move-in (allowing for normal wear and tear)
  • Document the condition to avoid deposit disputes

How Repairs Are Handled in PEI

If you notice an issue—like a broken window, faulty outlet, or a leaking faucet—notify your landlord as soon as possible and preferably in writing. Landlords must address urgent repairs (such as loss of heat) quickly. For non-emergency issues, standard timelines apply.

For more details about routine maintenance and who is responsible for what, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Requesting Repairs: Official Forms

• Form 6: Application for Enforcement of Statutory or Other Conditions
  Use this form if your landlord does not respond to repair requests or fails to keep the rental in good repair. Complete Form 6 (PDF) and submit it to IRAC.
  Example: If your heating system is broken in winter and the landlord hasn't responded, submit this form with your documentation to seek enforcement.
• Form 7: Application to Determine Dispute
  If there’s a disagreement about repairs, costs, or responsibility, use Form 7 (PDF) to request a decision from IRAC.
  Example: If you and your landlord disagree on whether a repair is necessary or who should pay, apply with Form 7.

Tip: Always keep copies of your requests, repair receipts, and all correspondence related to maintenance for your records.

Emergency Repairs in PEI Rentals

An emergency repair is any situation that threatens health, safety, or makes the unit uninhabitable (e.g., burst pipes, loss of heat in winter, unsafe electrical wiring). Landlords must handle these without delay. If you cannot reach your landlord, you may be able to arrange minimal temporary repairs yourself and recover the reasonable cost, but always document thoroughly and contact IRAC for guidance first.^[1]

What If Repairs Aren’t Done?

If your landlord does not respond after you’ve requested a repair, you may contact IRAC to file a complaint. Be sure to keep all written communication and evidence. Learn more about Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Cleaning, Damage, and Normal Wear and Tear

Tenants are responsible for routine cleaning and for preventing damage caused by neglect. "Normal wear and tear" is expected; you’re not responsible for aging paint or minor scuffs from daily living. However, cleaning or damage beyond this could affect your security deposit.

See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more.

Pest and Health Issues

Landlords are typically responsible for keeping the premises pest-free and addressing mold and humidity problems, unless you caused the issue through neglect. Inform your landlord in writing if you notice pests or health hazards.

Summary: Keeping Your PEI Rental Safe and Well-Maintained

Staying proactive and knowing your rights ensures repairs happen quickly and fairly. For a quick reference, keep this checklist handy throughout your tenancy. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings if you are seeking your next PEI apartment or home.

1. What if my landlord refuses necessary repairs?
   If your landlord ignores repair requests, document all attempts to contact them, and submit Form 6 to PEI IRAC. You can also seek a formal dispute using Form 7 if needed.
2. Who pays for repairs in a PEI rental unit?
   The landlord pays for major repairs and issues resulting from normal use. Tenants cover damage caused by themselves or their guests and are responsible for basic cleaning.
3. What counts as an "emergency repair"?
   Situations like no heat in winter, burst pipes, flooding, fire, or major electrical problems are emergencies, and the landlord must respond right away.
4. Do I need to do a move-in inspection in PEI?
   While not strictly required, a move-in inspection is highly recommended to document the rental’s condition, which helps protect your deposit at move-out.
5. Where can I get advice if repairs are not handled properly?
   Tenants can contact IRAC, local tenant advocacy services, or review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island for further support.

1. How do I request a repair in my PEI rental?
   Notify your landlord in writing as soon as you notice a problem. Clearly describe the issue, and include photos if possible. Keep a record of all correspondence. If unresolved, file Form 6 with IRAC.
2. How can I recover costs if I pay for an urgent repair?
   Keep all receipts and notify your landlord immediately. If you needed to arrange an emergency repair, submit documentation and request reimbursement. If there’s a dispute, file Form 7 with IRAC.
3. How do I file a complaint about unresolved repair issues?
   Gather evidence (photos, messages) and submit Form 6 to IRAC, explaining the problem and your attempts to resolve it. IRAC will review and may schedule a hearing.
4. How to prepare for a maintenance hearing at IRAC?
   Collect all written requests, photos, estimates, and receipts. Prepare a clear summary of the issue’s timeline. Attend your hearing with this documentation to support your case.

Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants

• Know what maintenance and repairs you are responsible for as a tenant in PEI.
• Document everything—always submit requests in writing and keep records.
• Use official forms if repairs aren’t handled. Contact IRAC for support when needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC): Rental Property Office – PEI IRAC | Phone: 1-902-892-3501
• PEI Housing Services and Supports
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island
• Local tenant support organizations or legal clinics

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1. Rental of Residential Property Act of Prince Edward Island
2. Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) – Rental Property Office

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