Sexual Harassment by Landlords in PEI: Tenant Rights

Sexual harassment by a landlord can be distressing and may affect a tenant's safety, privacy, and ability to live comfortably. This guide explains what renters in Prince Edward Island should know about their rights, how provincial discrimination and tenancy rules apply, and practical steps to document incidents, report harassment, and seek remedies. It covers when to contact the Residential Tenancies authority or the PEI Human Rights Commission, how to use official complaint forms, what evidence to keep, and options if you need temporary safety measures or to end a lease. The language is clear and supportive so tenants can act confidently while protecting their well-being and legal rights.

What landlord sexual harassment looks like

Sexual harassment from a landlord can include unwelcome comments, sexual advances, requests for sexual favours in exchange for services or repairs, inappropriate touching, or persistent sexualized messaging. Harassment can be direct threats or subtle pressure that interferes with a tenant's right to quiet enjoyment of the rental unit. Tenants should know that harassment can also be discriminatory when it targets a protected characteristic under human rights law.

Immediate steps to protect yourself

• If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or local emergency services without delay.
• Tell a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour where you are and what happened so someone else knows your situation.
• Start a written log with dates, times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses.

How and what to document

Good evidence makes complaints clearer and stronger. Document what happened as soon as possible, keep originals and backups, and ensure files are dated. If messages or photos are involved, preserve digital copies and avoid deleting metadata when possible.

• Take dated photos or screenshots of texts, emails, or social media messages and save them in a secure location.
• Keep a written incident log noting dates, times, locations, and any witnesses for each occurrence.
• Save copies of your lease, notices from the landlord, and any repair or entry records that show patterns of behaviour.

Reporting, official remedies, and forms

Tenants in Prince Edward Island can pursue more than one route: a complaint to the PEI Human Rights Commission for harassment that is discriminatory, or an application under provincial tenancy rules for breaches of the rental agreement or illegal entry. Contact the PEI Human Rights Commission PEI Human Rights Commission^[1] or consult provincial tenancy legislation and the authority that oversees residential tenancies in PEI Residential Tenancies Act^[2]. Use the official human rights complaint form when alleging discrimination or harassment that relates to a protected ground; the commission's complaint information and form explain timelines and what to include Complaint Form^[3].

When preparing an application under tenancy rules, you may ask for remedies such as orders to stop the harassment, compensation for damages, or termination of the tenancy in serious cases. Exact procedures and forms vary by province; follow the Residential Tenancies office instructions and filing timelines. For practical guidance on raising concerns directly with your landlord, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide and review landlord and tenant obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. If you need to find a new place quickly for safety, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ

Can a landlord sexually harass a tenant in Prince Edward Island?

Yes. Landlords can commit sexual harassment; tenants have rights under human rights law and tenancy rules and can file complaints with the PEI Human Rights Commission or seek remedies through the residential tenancy process.

What evidence should I collect before filing a complaint?

Collect dated messages and photos, a written incident log with dates and witnesses, copies of lease and any notices, and any communication from the landlord about repairs or entry.

Will filing a complaint risk eviction?

Laws prohibit retaliation for asserting legal rights in many cases, but tenants should follow filing rules and deadlines and seek advice; document all steps and seek immediate help if you face threats or illegal eviction attempts.

How-To

1. Document every incident: write dates, times, descriptions, and gather photos or screenshots.
2. Seek support: tell someone trusted, contact local support services, or seek legal advice.
3. Choose where to file: submit a human rights complaint for discrimination or an application under tenancy rules for breaches; follow form instructions and include your evidence.
4. Consider safety moves: if unsafe, plan relocation and document reasons; consult resources to understand notice and deposit rules before moving.

Key Takeaways

• Sexual harassment by a landlord can violate human rights and tenancy laws, and tenants have formal complaint options.
• Start documenting incidents immediately and preserve digital and physical evidence.
• Contact the PEI Human Rights Commission or the residential tenancy authority for the correct forms and timelines.

Help and Support / Resources

• PEI Human Rights Commission
• Residential Tenancies Act (PEI)
• Prince Edward Island Government - Housing and Tenancy Services

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1. [1] PEI Human Rights Commission
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (PEI)
3. [3] Human Rights complaint form (PEI)