What Alberta law says about rent increases
- →No cap. Your landlord can raise rent by any amount — Alberta has no limit on how much.
- →3 full months written notice. They must give you notice in writing at least 3 full calendar months before the increase kicks in. Verbal notice doesn't count.
- →Once per year only. They can't raise rent twice in any 12-month stretch.
Your rent details
What can you do if the increase isn't legal?
If your landlord hasn't followed the notice rules or is raising rent twice in 12 months, the increase is not enforceable. You don't have to pay it.
Your options:
- 1.Write back to your landlord pointing out which rule wasn't followed. Keep it in writing.
- 2.File a complaint with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — costs $75 and can be done online.
- 3.Take it to Provincial Court (Civil Division) if needed — this is the last resort.
Common questions
Is there a limit on how much rent can go up in Alberta?
No. Alberta scrapped rent control in 1995 and never brought it back. Your landlord can raise rent by any amount — $50 or $500 — as long as they follow the notice and timing rules.
What counts as "written notice"?
A physical letter or email specifically telling you about the rent increase, the new amount, and the date it takes effect. A text message or verbal mention doesn't count.
My landlord gave 3 months notice but the increase starts mid-month. Is that valid?
The increase has to align with your tenancy agreement. For monthly tenancies, the effective date should typically be the first day of a rental period. An increase starting mid-month is unusual and worth questioning.
Can my landlord raise rent when I renew a lease?
Yes, but the same rules apply — 3 months written notice and at least 12 months since the last increase. Even a lease renewal doesn't let them skip those requirements.
I'm in a mobile home — does any of this apply to me?
Mobile home site tenancies have a longer notice requirement: 6 months written notice instead of 3. Otherwise the same once-per-year rule applies.
This tool is for general information only and is not legal advice. If you have a dispute, consider speaking with a lawyer or contacting the RTDRS. Rules can change — always verify with the Government of Alberta.
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