Top 50 Questions: Mental Health & Tenancy in Prince Edward Island

Mental Health & Tenancy Prince Edward Island published June 26, 2025 Flag of Prince Edward Island
What protections exist for tenants with mental health concerns in PEI?
Tenants have the same legal protections as all renters. Discrimination based on mental health is not allowed under the PEI Human Rights Act.
Can my landlord evict me because of my mental health condition?
No, a landlord cannot evict you just for having a mental health condition. All evictions must follow legal reasons in the Rental of Residential Property Act.
Who oversees tenancy disputes in PEI?
The Director of Residential Rental Property (PEI Residential Tenancy Office) handles tenancy disputes.
What law protects tenants in PEI?
The Rental of Residential Property Act applies to most rental housing in PEI.
Can my landlord ask about my mental health?
Landlords cannot ask about, require disclosure of, or discriminate against you for mental health issues when renting.
What do I do if I feel discriminated against due to mental health?
File a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission.
Can I request an accommodation from my landlord due to mental health?
Yes. You can request reasonable accommodations. Landlords must consider them unless it causes undue hardship.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
Adjustments to rules, services, or policies, like allowing a support person or a service animal, to assist with your mental health needs.
Can I have a support animal in a "no pets" building for my mental health?
Yes, you may request a support animal as a disability accommodation, even if pets are generally not allowed.
What proof do I need for a support animal?
Typically a note from a qualified healthcare provider confirming the need for the animal for your mental health.
My landlord is ignoring my accommodation request. What can I do?
Document your request, and if refused or ignored, you can file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission.
Can a landlord end my tenancy if I have a mental health crisis?
No, unless your behaviour endangers others or breaches tenancy agreement terms. All evictions must follow legal process.
What if I damage property during a mental health episode?
You may be responsible for damages, but landlords still must follow legal process for compensation or eviction.
Can I get help if my landlord is harassing me because of my mental health?
Yes. Document the harassment and contact the PEI Human Rights Commission and the Tenancy Office.
Do I have to disclose mental health conditions to my landlord?
No, you do not have to share private medical details unless seeking an accommodation.
Can my landlord increase my rent because of my mental health issues?
No, rent increases must follow legal rules and cannot be related to your mental health status.
What official form is used for making a complaint to the Tenancy Office?
Use Application for Hearing (Form 2) to apply to resolve tenancy disputes, like discrimination claims.
How do I fill out Form 2 (Application for Hearing)?
Fill out your information, describe your complaint, and submit to the Director of Residential Rental Property. See Form 2 instructions.
My mental health affects my ability to communicate. Can I bring someone to a hearing?
Yes. You may bring a support person or legal representative to assist you at hearings.
What resources exist for tenants facing mental health-related housing issues in PEI?
You can contact CMHA PEI, Legal Aid PEI, or the PEI Human Rights Commission for help.
Can I get an urgent hearing if I am at risk of homelessness due to mental health issues?
In emergencies, note urgency on your Application for Hearing (Form 2) and notify the Tenancy Office when you apply.
Can my landlord call police if I am having a mental health crisis?
Landlords may call emergency services if there is immediate safety risk, but should respect your privacy otherwise.
What if my mental health makes it hard to pay rent on time?
Communicate with your landlord as soon as possible. PEI tenants must pay rent on time or risk notice, but accommodations may be explored.
Where do I find the PEI Residential Tenancy Office?
See contact and filing details on the Rental Office website.
Can I request repairs that help with my mental health, like extra locks?
Yes, you may request reasonable repairs or modifications. The landlord must consider them under the Human Rights Act.
Is my mental health information confidential?
Yes, landlords must keep any mental health information confidential and only use it for necessary accommodation.
Can a landlord change the locks if I have a mental health crisis?
Not without following legal eviction procedures or your agreement. Lockouts are not permitted except by law.
What if I'm given a Notice to Terminate but believe it's due to my mental health?
You may challenge the notice by applying for a hearing using Form 2.
I need time to move due to mental health. Can I ask for an extension?
You may request more time from your landlord or the Tenancy Office; decisions depend on individual circumstances.
What if a neighbour complains about me due to my mental health symptoms?
Landlords must balance all tenants' rights and address complaints fairly, considering your right to reasonable accommodation.
Can housing providers screen tenants for mental health?
No, tenant screening must not include mental health or disability status.
Does my mental health affect my right to renew a lease?
No, your lease renewal cannot be denied based on mental health.
Can I apply for subsidized housing if I have a mental health disability?
Yes, you may be eligible for subsidized or special needs housing. See Public Housing Application.
My landlord wants a letter about my accommodation needs. Is this okay?
Landlords can ask for reasonable medical documentation to support the need for accommodation but not for full diagnosis details.
What if my mental health makes tenancy obligations hard to fulfill?
Request accommodations that may help you meet your obligations. Seek support agencies or legal advice if needed.
What happens if I'm hospitalized and cannot pay rent?
Let your landlord know and seek community supports. Tenant duties still apply, but accommodations or payment plans may help.
Can landlords require me to leave during a mental health episode?
No, not unless your behaviour creates immediate risk or is a serious breach of the rental agreement.
I feel unsafe in my unit due to my mental health. What can I do?
Request safety upgrades or supports as accommodation or seek community services for help.
Can I break my lease early due to mental health?
You may request to end your lease early for medical reasons. Consult the landlord and explain your situation; you may need documentation.
What PEI government services support tenants with mental health needs?
Contact PEI Mental Health Services for support and referrals.
Can I refuse landlord entry for privacy due to mental health?
Landlords may enter only with notice or in emergencies. You can request privacy but legal entry rules still apply.
Is there a fee to apply for a Tenancy Office hearing in PEI?
No, there is no fee to file an Application for Hearing (Form 2) with the Tenancy Office.
Who can help me prepare for a tenancy hearing?
Contact Legal Aid PEI, local community services, or CMHA PEI for assistance preparing for hearings.
Are support animals considered "pets" under PEI tenancy law?
No, support animals used as medical aids are not considered "pets" under the Human Rights Act.
Can a landlord limit the type of support animal I have?
Only if the animal is dangerous or causes undue hardship for others (e.g., allergies, building restrictions).
I need a live-in caregiver. Is this an accommodation I can request?
Yes, you may ask to have a live-in caregiver as a reasonable accommodation for your mental health disability.
What if a landlord retaliates after I request an accommodation?
Retaliation for requesting accommodation is not allowed. Report to the Human Rights Commission or the Tenancy Office.
My doctor recommends I move for my health. Can I end my lease?
With written medical proof, discuss early termination with your landlord. Legal procedures may apply.
Do I have to use official forms for accommodation requests?
No, but written requests are best. You can also use Form 2 for official matters.
Who do I call in an emergency mental health crisis in PEI housing?
Call 911 or the PEI Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-833-553-6983 in emergencies.
How long does it take to get a decision after a tenancy hearing in PEI?
Usually within 2-4 weeks after the hearing, but timing may vary. Urgent cases can be prioritized.

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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.

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