Many tenants in Prince Edward Island face questions about who must clear snow and ice, what counts as tenant liability, and when to use tenant insurance. This guide explains rights and practical steps in clear language so renters know how to document hazards, report unsafe conditions, and reduce personal risk. It covers common lease clauses, municipal sidewalk bylaws, how to respond after a slip or property damage claim, and when to contact the Residential Tenancies Board or seek formal remedies. If you rent in PEI, these plain-language tips will help you protect yourself, understand responsibilities under your lease, and gather the evidence needed for insurance or tribunal applications.
Who is responsible for clearing snow and ice?
In Prince Edward Island, responsibility depends on the lease, type of property, and municipal bylaws. Some leases require tenants to clear private walkways and entrances; others assign that duty to the landlord or property manager. Check your rental agreement and any building rules, and consider municipal sidewalk bylaws for public areas.[1]
Tenant steps to reduce liability
Simple actions reduce risk and protect your legal position if someone slips or property is damaged.
- Clear snow and ice from private entrances and walkways within a reasonable time after a storm.
- Document conditions with photos, timestamps, and short notes after you notice hazards.
- Contact your landlord or property manager right away to report safety risks and request repairs or clearing.
- Keep copies of any notices or messages you send or receive about snow and ice.
For general safety obligations and common habitability issues see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
What to do after a slip, fall, or damage claim
Ensure immediate safety and call emergency services if someone is seriously injured. If safe, take photos of the exact spot, note weather and recent clearing activity, and collect witness names and contact details. Notify the landlord in writing (email or registered mail) and keep copies. Report the incident to your insurer and get a claim number if you have tenant insurance. If the landlord does not respond, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Board for resolution and a hearing.[2]
If you are looking for alternative rentals while resolving a safety or liability concern, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
Common forms and when to use them
- Application to the Residential Tenancy Board (application form): used when you need a hearing for repairs, dispute over responsibility, or compensation; for example, if a landlord refuses to remove ice on a common walkway and a tenant is injured.[2]
- Notice to landlord (written request): a dated written notice asking the landlord to clear snow and ice; use email or registered mail and keep a copy as evidence.
- Insurance claim form (tenant insurance): submit after injury or property damage; include photos, medical or repair receipts, and any police or incident numbers when available.[3]
FAQ
- Am I legally required to shovel my rental's sidewalk in PEI?
- It depends on your lease and local bylaws. Private walkways or entrances listed in your rental agreement can be your responsibility; sidewalks bordering the public street are often covered by municipal bylaws. Check your lease and local rules and keep a written record of any responsibility assigned to you.[1]
- Will tenant insurance cover a slip on ice?
- Many tenant policies include liability coverage for accidental injury or damage you cause to others, and contents coverage for your belongings. Contact your insurer promptly, provide photos and documents, and follow their claim process.
- How do I apply to the Residential Tenancies Board?
- Complete the Board's application form to request a hearing about repairs, safety, or compensation. Include evidence, copies of written notices, and photos. The Board will set a hearing date and notify both parties.[2]
How-To
- Ensure immediate safety: move to a safe place, call emergency services if needed, and help others as appropriate.
- Document the scene: take clear photos from multiple angles, note time and weather, and collect witness names and contact details.
- Contact the landlord and your insurer: send a written notice to the landlord and start an insurance claim if applicable, keeping copies of all correspondence.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Board if the landlord does not address the hazard or you need monetary compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Check your lease and municipal bylaws to know who must clear snow and ice.
- Report hazards in writing and keep dated photos and copies of all messages.
- Use tenant insurance and the Residential Tenancies Board when necessary to resolve disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board, Government of Prince Edward Island
- Residential Tenancies Act (Prince Edward Island)
- Government of Prince Edward Island — Housing and tenant resources
