Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Checklist for PEI

Renting in Prince Edward Island comes with important legal rights and responsibilities. Understanding these can help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a safe, fair rental experience. This practical checklist covers all the essentials for PEI tenants, from deposits and inspections to repairs and moving out, and is based on the latest provincial legislation and forms.

Your Rights as a Tenant in Prince Edward Island

In PEI, tenants are protected by the Rental of Residential Property Act1. You have the right to quiet enjoyment, privacy, proper notice before entry, and a safe and habitable home. Landlords must follow rules for deposits, rent increases, repairs, and evictions.

  • Receive written notice for rent increases and entry
  • Have repairs done in a timely manner
  • Request basic services (heat, water, electricity) to be maintained
  • Know the process for ending a lease or disputing landlord actions

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

  • Pay rent in full and on time
  • Keep your rental clean and not damage the unit
  • Report issues or needed repairs promptly
  • Respect your neighbours and follow building rules

Both landlord and tenant rights and duties are detailed on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island page.

Checklist: Key Steps for Tenants in PEI

1. Review the Lease Agreement

  • Ensure it lists all occupants, rent amount, and included services.
  • Understand terms for deposits, pets, and notice periods.

After signing, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for what comes next.

2. Pay Deposits Correctly

  • Security deposits may not exceed one month's rent.
  • Get a receipt and keep records.
  • Deposits must be returned, minus damages if any, after moving out.

For more on this, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Document the Condition of the Unit

  • Do an initial inspection and take photos when you move in and out.
  • Note any existing damage on an inspection form. This protects your deposit.

PEI does not have a government-mandated inspection form, but it is best practice to create your own or use the landlord’s version and keep copies.

4. Understand Health and Safety Standards

  • Landlords must provide safe, healthy housing. This means working smoke detectors, no pest infestation, and other basic standards.
  • Report health or safety hazards right away in writing.
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Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

5. Know How Rent Payments Work

  • Rent is due on the date in your lease.
  • A landlord must give written notice for any rent increase, following PEI rules.

6. Requesting Repairs and Reporting Problems

If something breaks or is unsafe, notify your landlord in writing. If they do not respond, you can apply to the Director of Residential Rental Property to resolve the issue.

Tip: Keep all repair requests and responses in writing for your records.

7. Forms and Process for Disputes

  • Form 2: Application by Tenant – Use this to apply to the Director for issues such as repair disputes, deposit return, or other rights. This form is available on the PEI government website. For example, if your landlord refuses to return your deposit, complete and submit Form 2 with supporting evidence.
  • Form 4: Notice of Termination by Tenant – Required if you plan to end your tenancy. Available here. Submit this form to your landlord with the required notice under the Act.

Always read the instructions carefully on the forms regarding timelines and how to deliver them.

8. Moving Out

  • Give proper written notice using Form 4.
  • Arrange a final inspection and clean the unit before leaving.
  • Return all keys to avoid charges.

Common Issues Faced by PEI Tenants

  • Disagreements over deposits
  • Unaddressed repairs
  • Unauthorized entry by landlord
  • Questions around how to end a lease properly

For more information, you can consult resources about Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Where to Get Dispute Help

The Director of Residential Rental Property is PEI’s official body for resolving rental disputes, forms, and enforcement.

PEI tenants can always ask questions or file applications about deposits, rent, or repairs directly with the Director. Check deadlines for each action.

If you’re looking for your next home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for easy browsing and comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the maximum security deposit allowed in PEI rentals?
    Landlords can ask for a security deposit up to one month's rent. This must be held in trust and returned after tenancy minus any lawful deductions.
  2. How do I officially end my tenancy in PEI?
    You must give proper written notice using Form 4: Notice of Termination by Tenant and deliver it with the notice period required by your lease or the Act.
  3. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs?
    Send a written request. If the issue is not resolved, file Form 2: Application by Tenant to the Director of Residential Rental Property.
  4. How much notice must a landlord give before entering my rental unit?
    Landlords generally must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice, except in emergency situations.
  5. What can a landlord deduct from my security deposit?
    Landlords may deduct amounts for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.

How-To: Handling Common Tenant Actions in PEI

  1. How do I apply to the Director for a rental dispute?
    Download and complete Form 2, attach your evidence, and file it with the Director's office. Wait for hearing details. Be sure to keep copies of everything for your records.
  2. How do I give proper notice to end my tenancy?
    Fill out Form 4, give it to your landlord with required notice, and keep proof of delivery (such as a signed copy or delivery receipt).
  3. What steps should I follow before moving out to get my deposit back?
    Clean your unit thoroughly, repair any damages, attend a final walkthrough, return all keys, and provide a forwarding address for your deposit return.

Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants

  • Know your rights and responsibilities under PEI’s Rental of Residential Property Act.
  • Always use official forms and keep copies for your records.
  • Contact the Director of Residential Rental Property for help with disputes or questions.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Rental of Residential Property Act (Prince Edward Island)
  2. Director of Residential Rental Property, PEI
  3. PEI Tenant & Landlord Handbook
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.