PEI Tenant Moving In & Out Guide: Laws, Forms & Tips

Ready to move in or out of a rental home in Prince Edward Island? Understanding your rights, responsibilities, and the required steps can make your move smooth and stress-free. This guide explains everything you need to know about the moving process as a PEI tenant, including inspections, deposits, forms, and official resources.

Who Governs Renting in Prince Edward Island?

The Residential Tenancy Office of Prince Edward Island oversees all aspects of residential renting, including move-ins and move-outs. Tenancy laws are set out in the Prince Edward Island Rental of Residential Property Act^[1].

Preparing for Moving In

Before you settle into your new home, there are important steps to take to protect your rights and make the transition easier. Always get written agreements, understand your deposit terms, and request an inspection.

• Read and sign a lease agreement. Be sure to review all terms and clarify anything unclear with your landlord.
• Ask for a written receipt when paying your deposit. For a full breakdown, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Request an inspection. Walk through the property with your landlord, noting any existing damage or issues.

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island page provides a useful overview for renters in this province.

Essential Move-In Inspection

Completing a move-in inspection protects you from being charged for damages you did not cause. You and your landlord should:

• Complete a written inspection report (no official form required by law, but using one is good practice)
• Note the condition of all rooms, appliances, and fixtures
• Sign and date the form, then keep a copy for your records

Check out Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for more inspection tips.

Moving Out: Your Rights and Duties

Giving proper notice and leaving your unit clean and undamaged is key for a smooth move-out—and for getting your full deposit back.

Notice Requirements and the Form 1

To end your tenancy in PEI, you must give written notice. The official form is:

• Form 1: Notice of Termination by Tenant
  Use it when: You want to legally end your fixed-term or month-to-month lease. Download directly from the PEI Tenancy Forms page.
  How: Complete the form, sign, and give it to your landlord at least one full rental period before moving (usually one month's notice). For example: if your rent is due on the 1st and you deliver notice on May 15, your tenancy ends June 30.

Cleaning, Repairs, and Final Walkthrough

Before you hand back your keys:

• Remove all personal belongings and trash
• Clean the unit (including appliances, bathrooms, floors)
• Repair any tenant-caused damages
• Request a joint move-out inspection with your landlord

Doing a final inspection helps avoid disputes. For more support, read The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Your landlord must return your security deposit (plus interest) within 10 days after your lease ends, unless they apply to keep part or all for damages or unpaid rent. To maximize your chances of a smooth refund, be sure to:

• Document the rental’s condition on move-out
• Return all keys
• Provide a forwarding address

Learn how to protect your deposit with How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Common Tenant Questions & Key PEI Forms

• Form 2: Application by Landlord or Tenant to Director – Used if you wish to dispute a deposit, settlement, or raise a tenancy issue. Submit this to the Residential Tenancy Office if your landlord refuses to return your deposit without reason. Access at the official PEI website.
• Form 4: Joint Application to End Tenancy – If you and your landlord both agree to end the tenancy early, use this form together.

Submit forms directly to the Residential Tenancy Office listed in the resources section below.

Understanding Your Rights When Moving

Knowing your rights as a PEI tenant ensures fair treatment. You are protected by the Rental of Residential Property Act, which covers everything from notices and deposits to landlord entry and repairs. If you have concerns, view your rights at the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island page or the official government site below.

For those looking for their next home, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice does a tenant need to give to move out in PEI?
   Most leases require one full rental period’s written notice using Form 1. Fixed-term leases may have special terms.
2. Can my landlord keep part of my damage deposit?
   Only if you owe rent or have caused damage above normal wear and tear. The landlord must apply to the Residential Tenancy Office if you dispute this.
3. What happens if my landlord doesn’t do a final inspection?
   You should still document the unit’s condition with photos and keep copies of any communications or inspection requests.
4. How do I end my lease early?
   Talk to your landlord; if they agree, use Form 4. Otherwise, speak with the Tenancy Office for your options and disputes.
5. Where can I get the official tenancy forms for PEI?
   All forms are available at the PEI government tenancy forms page.

How To: Complete a Proper Move-Out in PEI

1. How do I give legal notice to end my tenancy?
   Use Form 1 and give your landlord at least one full month’s written notice before your intended move-out date.
2. How do I ensure I get my deposit back?
   Clean the apartment, repair any damage, document the unit on move-out, and request a joint inspection. Promptly give your forwarding address.
3. How do I dispute withheld deposits?
   File Form 2 (“Application by Tenant to Director”) with the Residential Tenancy Office if you believe the landlord is unfairly keeping your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• PEI Residential Tenancy Office – forms, complaints, and guidance
• Official PEI Tenancy Forms
• Toll-Free Tenant Info Line: 1-800-501-6268
• Explore more rental rights info at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island

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1. Prince Edward Island Rental of Residential Property Act

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