Tenants living with young children in Prince Edward Island need clear information about window guards and other child safety measures. This guide explains tenant and landlord responsibilities, practical safety steps to reduce fall risk, and how to formally request installations or repairs in a rental. It covers what to check in your lease, how to document concerns, and the routes for resolving disputes with a landlord or the provincial tenancy body. The language is aimed at renters and parents who want straightforward, step-by-step advice for keeping children safe while protecting their rights in PEI rental housing. If you are moving and need a safe rental, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
What PEI law says
In Prince Edward Island, landlords must provide safe, habitable windows and are responsible for repairs that affect child safety. If a window presents a fall risk for children, tenants can ask the landlord to install window guards or safety devices. For broader hazard prevention and tenant safety details, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting, and for provincial rights see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island. For formal dispute resolution, contact the Residential Tenancies Board or equivalent provincial tribunal [1]. The applicable legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act in Prince Edward Island [2].
How to ask your landlord for window guards
- Check your lease for clauses about safety and repairs.
- Take dated photos and keep a short log of incidents or risks.
- Send a written request to the landlord describing the hazard and the fix you want, keeping a copy.
- Follow up by phone or text and note the date and time of the conversation.
Liability, repairs, and reasonable modifications
Landlords usually must pay for repairs that affect habitability, but tenants may be allowed to arrange urgent safety repairs and seek reimbursement if the landlord does not act in reasonable time. Before arranging work, try a written notice with a reasonable deadline and keep evidence of the problem and your attempts to resolve it. If the landlord refuses or delays, you can apply to the provincial tenancy board for an order requiring repairs or compensation [1].
FAQ
- Do landlords in PEI have to install window guards for child safety?
- Not always automatically, but landlords are responsible for maintaining safe windows and may be required to install guards if a reasonable safety risk exists; you can request repairs or bring the issue to the tenancy board.
- What if my landlord ignores my written request?
- Keep records and photos, then apply to the Residential Tenancies Board or use the official forms to request a hearing; this can lead to an order for repairs or reimbursement.
- Can I install temporary guards myself?
- Yes, temporary non-damaging guards that do not alter the window frame are often acceptable, but get the landlord's written consent when possible and keep receipts to request reimbursement if needed.
How-To
- Note the hazard and take immediate steps to secure the area while you pursue repairs.
- Write a clear written request to the landlord describing the problem and the remedy you propose, and set a reasonable deadline.
- Gather evidence: photos, dates, witness statements or messages showing the risk or incidents.
- Contact the provincial tenancy board or tenancy office if the landlord does not respond; include your documents.
- Attend any hearing or mediation and bring copies of all documents and receipts to support your request.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Board (Prince Edward Island)
- Prince Edward Island - Housing and tenant information
