Top 50 Questions: Special Tenancy Situations in Prince Edward Island

Special Tenancy Situations Prince Edward Island published June 26, 2025 Flag of Prince Edward Island
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Prince Edward Island?
The Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property (PEI Office of the Director) oversees disputes.
What is the main tenancy law in PEI?
The Residential Rental Property Act governs tenancies in PEI.
How do I dispute an eviction notice in PEI?
File Form 6 - Application by a Tenant with the Office of the Director. (Form 6).
How can I request permission to sublet my unit?
Ask your landlord for written consent; use a written request. Subletting needs landlord approval.
Can I add someone to my lease?
Adding someone requires landlord agreement and usually an updated written lease.
What if I need to move before my lease ends?
You can ask to assign or sublet, or negotiate an early termination. Written notice is required.
What is an 'assignment' of tenancy?
Assignment is transferring your lease to someone else, with landlord approval, using Form 14. (Form 14).
What notice must I give to end a month-to-month lease?
Give 1 month's written notice using Form 2 - Notice by Tenant. (Form 2).
How can I request maintenance if my landlord isn't responding?
Put your request in writing. If not resolved, file Form 6 with the Office of the Director. (Form 6).
Can my landlord enter my unit without permission?
No, except in emergencies or with at least 24 hours' written notice for repairs or inspections.
What should I do if my landlord wants to sell the property?
The landlord can sell but must follow notice procedures if you’re asked to move for a buyer’s own use.
What if my rental is damaged by fire or flood?
Inform your landlord as soon as possible. If the unit is unlivable, your tenancy may end automatically.
Can my landlord evict me because they want to move in?
Yes, but only with proper notice using Form 10 - Notice of Termination for Personal Use (Form 10).
Can I be evicted for having guests or roommates?
Usually not, unless guests violate terms or cause damage/disturbances.
Am I responsible if a roommate does not pay rent?
Yes, if you are both on the lease; the landlord can seek full rent from either tenant.
Are rent increases limited in special tenancy cases?
Rent increases must follow annual guidelines. Check allowable rates with the Office of the Director.
How do I challenge an illegal rent increase?
File Form 6 with the Office of the Director to dispute the increase. (Form 6).
What if I am being harassed by my landlord?
Document incidents and file Form 6 to request intervention by the Director. (Form 6).
Can I break my lease due to domestic violence?
You can apply under special circumstances; contact the Office of the Director for guidance.
What if the landlord refuses to return my security deposit?
File Form 9 - Application for Return of Security Deposit. (Form 9).
What if my lease has expired but I still live in the unit?
Your tenancy automatically becomes month-to-month, unless another agreement is reached.
Am I responsible for snow removal or lawn care?
Only if stated in your lease; otherwise, these are the landlord’s responsibility.
If my building is sold, does my lease continue?
Yes, the new owner must honor existing tenancy agreements.
What if my landlord wants to demolish the building?
The landlord must provide written termination notice and follow legal timelines.
Can I get out of my lease if I must move for work?
Only if agreed with the landlord or by assignment/sublet; otherwise, the lease stays binding.
What if I need accessibility modifications?
Request landlord permission in writing. Accommodation cannot be unreasonably refused.
Can I keep a pet if my landlord says no?
You must follow pet rules in your lease, but service animals must be accommodated.
My landlord is selling the building and new landlord wants to change rules. Is that allowed?
New landlords must honor current terms unless both parties agree to changes in writing.
What happens to my lease if a co-tenant dies?
The surviving tenant(s) remain responsible for the lease.
Can I refuse repairs for privacy reasons?
You cannot unreasonably refuse required repairs; 24 hours' notice must be given.
What if my landlord wants to convert my rental to a condo?
You must get written notice of termination as per the Act’s requirements.
Does being in the military let me end my lease early?
Early termination may be possible for service reasons; contact the Office of the Director with documentation.
Can a landlord end my lease for major renovations?
Yes, with lawful notice and proper forms; tenants may apply for compensation.
Is there help for tenants facing homelessness after eviction?
PEI government and local agencies offer support; contact PEI Housing Services for resources.
How do I get repairs if my unit is uninhabitable?
Give written notice to your landlord, then file Form 6 if not resolved. (Form 6).
My family size changed—can I switch to a larger unit?
You may request to transfer but landlord approval is required. No legal right to switch.
Do I have to move out if the property’s owner changes?
No – your tenancy continues under the new owner with all existing terms.
Can I use my unit for business (like home daycare)?
Only with landlord’s written consent and all required permits.
How can I request rent review or reduction?
You may apply to the Office of the Director for rent review using Form 6.
Can the landlord shut off utilities for repairs or disputes?
Utilities cannot be shut off for disputes. Temporary shutdowns for repairs require reasonable notice.
Am I liable if my guest damages the rental?
Yes, tenants are responsible for any damage caused by guests.
What should I do with mail for a previous tenant?
Mark it “Return to Sender – Not at This Address” and place it back in the mailbox.
What steps should I take if I lose my copy of the lease?
Ask the landlord for another copy; they must provide it.
Can my rent be increased if I add a roommate?
Not unless your lease allows it. Consult with the Office of the Director for concerns.
Is written notice required for all special tenancy changes?
Yes, always give and keep notice for changes, requests, or agreements.
Are there forms for every special tenancy situation?
Most require a specific form; visit the PEI Residential Tenancy Forms page.
Do I need to give notice if I want to renew my yearly lease?
No, it automatically becomes month-to-month unless terminated by either party.
Can my landlord limit visitors?
Reasonable limits or terms should be in your lease. Blanket bans are not allowed.
My apartment is being renovated. Do I have to move?
If major renovations make it unlivable, you may have to move and be given notice by the landlord.
What if my landlord serves a short notice to vacate?
If you believe it’s illegal, file Form 6 with the Office of the Director immediately.

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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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