Can my landlord increase my rent by any amount?

No. PEI limits rent increases to a set annual percentage, with at least three months’ written notice and only once every 12 months.

What notice must my landlord give to enter my rental unit?

Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering, unless there’s an emergency.

Is my landlord allowed to keep my damage deposit?

Only if rent is owed or the unit is damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Otherwise, you must get your deposit back within 10 days.

What Landlords Are Allowed and Not Allowed to Do in PEI

Q: How do I dispute an eviction or unfair landlord action?

You must file Form 6 with the Director of Residential Rental Property Office for a formal dispute.

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

As a tenant in Prince Edward Island, it is important to understand your rights and the boundaries landlords must follow. The Residential Rental Property Act protects tenants from unfair practices and outlines both landlord and tenant responsibilities. By knowing what is permitted and what isn't, you can confidently address issues such as rent increases, repairs, privacy, and eviction in PEI.

Landlord Powers and Tenant Protections

The Prince Edward Island Residential Rental Property Act^[1] is the main law governing rental relationships. The Director of Residential Rental Property Office oversees disputes and enforcement in the province.

What Can Landlords Do in PEI?

Landlords in PEI have certain rights and responsibilities. These include:

Collecting rent as agreed in the lease
Increasing rent (following legal rules and notice periods)
Requesting a security deposit of up to one month's rent
Posting proper notice before entering your unit (at least 24 hours, except emergencies)
Enforcing reasonable rules set out in a rental agreement
Applying to the Director to end a tenancy under certain conditions (e.g., for non-payment, substantial damage, or landlord's personal use)

If you want to learn more about your responsibilities after the rental agreement, refer to the guide Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Landlords Cannot Do

Landlords are not allowed to:

Enter your unit without proper notice (except in emergencies)
Increase rent without following legal notice rules or above the allowed percentage
Evict you without cause and without following proper legal procedures
Shut off vital services (heat, water, electricity) to force you out
Change locks or remove belongings without a formal eviction order
Retaliate against you for asserting your rights

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island summary is a quick reference for more details on your protections.

Rental Increases: What’s Allowed?

Rent increases in PEI are tightly regulated. Landlords can only raise rent once every 12 months, must provide at least 3 months’ written notice, and may not exceed the annual allowed rent increase set by the province. If you suspect an illegal rent increase, you can file a complaint with the Rental Office.

Deposits, Inspections, and Repairs

Landlords may collect a security deposit, but it must be returned at the end of your tenancy unless rent is outstanding or the unit is damaged beyond normal wear. For more details about deposits, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Landlords must keep your unit safe and habitable. They are responsible for repairs not caused by neglect or misuse. If you face unsafe conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for tips and next steps.

Privacy and Entry

Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit and only for valid reasons (repairs, inspections). Exceptions include emergencies, where immediate entry is allowed. Entry without notice or for non-emergency reasons is not permitted.

If Your Rights Are Violated: Steps to Take

If you believe your landlord has acted illegally, you can:

Communicate your concerns in writing and keep records
Contact the Director of Residential Rental Property Office
File a complaint or application for dispute resolution

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Form 6: Application by Tenant to Director
Use this form to file a formal dispute, such as appealing an eviction or disputing a rent increase. Download it from the PEI government website.
Example: If your landlord raises rent illegally, complete Form 6 and submit it to the Rental Office to request a hearing.
Form 7: Application for Return of Security Deposit
If your landlord refuses to return your deposit, fill out Form 7 and appeal to the Director to have your deposit returned.

Where to Find Quality Rentals in PEI

If you are looking for a new home or want to compare your current options, you can View available rentals coast to coast and find apartments and homes across Prince Edward Island easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can my landlord increase my rent by any amount?
No. Rent increases in PEI are limited by the government-set annual increase amount. Your landlord must also provide at least 3 months’ written notice and can only increase rent once every 12 months.
What notice must my landlord give to enter my rental unit?
Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice and may only enter for specific reasons, such as repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to new tenants.
How do I dispute an eviction or unfair landlord action?
You can file a complaint with the Director of Residential Rental Property using Form 6. The Office will review your application and may schedule a hearing.
Is my landlord allowed to keep my damage deposit?
Only if you owe outstanding rent or have caused damage beyond normal wear and tear. Otherwise, your deposit must be returned within 10 days after moving out.

Conclusion

Landlords in PEI must follow clear rules regarding rent, entry, evictions, and deposits.
Tenants are protected by the Residential Rental Property Act and can dispute violations through the proper channels.
Knowing both your rights and your responsibilities fosters a healthier rental relationship and helps resolve issues fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Director of Residential Rental Property Office: File disputes or ask questions (1-902-892-3501).
PEI Tenant Information: Official regulations and forms.
Local legal clinics or tenant support organizations (e.g., Community Legal Information, PEI) for free legal advice.
Find more information at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.