What should I do if my landlord enters my rental unit without notice?

If your landlord enters without 24 hours’ written notice (except emergencies), document it and report to the landlord. Persistent issues should be raised with the PEI Residential Tenancy Office.

Can my landlord raise the rent whenever they want?

No. Landlords may only raise rent once every 12 months, with three months’ written notice, and within PEI’s annual guideline.

What’s the process if I disagree with a rent increase or eviction?

You can file a formal complaint using the correct form with the Residential Tenancy Office, including all supporting documents.

How do I ensure my security deposit is returned?

Leave your unit clean, provide a forwarding address, and request your deposit in writing. Apply to the RTO if it's not returned within 10 days.

Where can I find affordable rental listings in PEI?

Use online resources like Houseme to search for affordable homes for rent across Prince Edward Island.

Top 10 Tenant Rights in Prince Edward Island: What Renters Must Know

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Prince Edward Island published June 13, 2025

Being a renter in Prince Edward Island means you have strong legal protections. Understanding your rights can help you navigate common issues like rent increases, repairs, deposits, and evictions. The Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) of Prince Edward Island resolves disputes and enforces provincial tenancy law. Below, you'll find the 10 most essential rights for PEI tenants—plus official forms, action steps, and useful links.

Key Tenant Rights in Prince Edward Island

1. Right to Safe and Habitable Housing

Every tenant in PEI has the right to a rental home that meets provincial health, safety, and maintenance standards. Your landlord must keep your unit in good repair and comply with local bylaws and safety codes. If you notice serious issues such as leaks, pest infestations, or unsafe wiring, report them to your landlord in writing.

Noise, mold, or pest problems must be addressed quickly.
You can make complaints to the RTO if safety isn’t restored.

If you're dealing with pests, check out Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

2. Right to Privacy and Proper Notice

Landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental, except in emergencies. Entry can only be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. for reasons allowed by law (like repairs or showings).

3. Right to Receive a Written Lease Agreement

Your tenancy must be governed by a rental agreement. This document should clearly state the rent amount, due dates, rules, and responsibilities.

After you’ve signed your tenancy agreement, you’ll benefit from reading What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for more information.

4. Protection from Unlawful Eviction

Your landlord can’t evict you without following the correct legal process. You are entitled to formal written notice using the official form, such as Notice to Quit - Form 4.^[1]

The notice must specify the reason and provide adequate days’ notice depending on the situation (e.g., non-payment of rent: 20 days).
You have a right to dispute evictions through the RTO.

5. Security Deposit Rules

Landlords cannot ask for more than one month's rent as a security deposit. Your deposit must be returned (with interest) within 10 days of moving out, unless deductions for damage are justified.

Learn more about your deposit rights in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

6. Right to Proper Rent Increases

Landlords must give at least three months’ written notice before increasing rent. Only one increase is allowed per year, and the amount is capped by PEI’s annual guideline. Use the official Notice of Rent Increase - Form 2.^[2]

You have the right to dispute above-guideline increases.

7. Right to Maintenance and Timely Repairs

Tenants have the right to essential repairs to heat, hot water, power, and other vital services. For unresolved issues, file a complaint to the RTO using the Tenant Application - Form 6.^[3]

8. Right to End Your Tenancy Properly

If you want to move out, you must give written notice according to your lease terms and the law. Use the Notice to Quit - Form 4 for ending most periodic tenancies.^[1]

Give at least one month's notice for a month-to-month lease.

9. Protection from Discrimination

Your right to rent a home cannot be denied based on race, gender, disability, family status, or other protected grounds under the PEI Human Rights Act.^[4]

10. Right to File Complaints and Dispute Resolutions

You may apply to the RTO for dispute resolution if you and your landlord cannot solve an issue directly. This can include repairs, deposit returns, or disagreements over rent increases.

For an overview of all your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Essential Official Forms for PEI Tenants

Notice to Quit (Form 4): To end tenancies or respond to a landlord’s termination notice. Access from PEI government. Use it if you plan to move out or if you receive a termination from your landlord.
Notice of Rent Increase (Form 2): Used by landlords to lawfully notify tenants of a rent increase. Download here. Review carefully and be prepared to dispute if above guidelines.
Tenant Application (Form 6): File this when asking the RTO to resolve disputes, such as repairs or deposit returns. Official source.

See the complete list of official forms at the PEI Residential Tenancy Forms page.

How to Take Action: Protecting Your Tenant Rights

If you face a problem, always put your communication in writing and keep a copy. Should your landlord not resolve the issue, follow these steps:

Review your tenancy agreement and relevant forms
Notify your landlord in writing about your issue
If not resolved, apply to the RTO using the correct form
Prepare supporting evidence (photos, emails, receipts)

FAQ

What should I do if my landlord enters my rental unit without notice?
If your landlord enters your unit without 24 hours’ written notice (except in emergencies), document the incident and report it to the landlord first. If issues persist, contact the PEI Residential Tenancy Office.
Can my landlord raise the rent whenever they want?
No. Rent increases must follow the legal guideline, occur only once every 12 months, and require three months’ written notice using the official form.
What’s the process if I disagree with a rent increase or eviction?
You have the right to file an application with the RTO using the proper form and have your case heard. Include all relevant documents and communications.
How do I ensure my security deposit is returned?
Make sure you leave the unit clean, provide a forwarding address, and request your deposit in writing if it is not returned within 10 days of moving out. File an application if unresolved.
Where can I find affordable rental listings in PEI?
Affordable homes for rent in Canada are easy to find online with search filters for Prince Edward Island.

Conclusion: Your Key Takeaways

PEI tenants are protected by clear laws covering rent, repairs, deposits, and evictions
Written communication and official forms are crucial for asserting your rights
Respect the proper notice rules and use the RTO when you need resolution

Staying informed and organized can help you enjoy a safe, secure renting experience in Prince Edward Island.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

PEI Residential Tenancy Office: Apply for dispute resolution, download forms, and find guides
Residential Tenancies Act (PEI): Read the full law online
PEI Human Rights Commission: File a discrimination complaint
Community Legal Information PEI: Free tenant education and assistance – legalinfopei.ca
Explore rental homes in your area at Houseme - your rental solution in Canada

Official forms including Notice to Quit (Form 4) are found at https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/residential-tenancy-forms-0.
Rent increase requirements and Notice of Rent Increase (Form 2): PEI Residential Tenancy Office.
Tenant Application (Form 6): Download here.
PEI Human Rights Act: Read the Act.