A practical starting point for rental agreements, condition records, repairs and notices, with links to the province’s official guidance.

Sources checked . Check the linked sources for later changes.

Start with the right rules

Before signing or changing a rental agreement, confirm whether the Residential Tenancies Act applies to the accommodation. Some arrangements are excluded. The provincial Landlord & Tenant hub brings together the legislation, landlord and tenant guide, forms and dispute-resolution information.

Official sources: Official Landlord & Tenant resources · Provincial tenancy FAQs and exclusions

Put the practical details in writing

Use the province’s Standard Rental Agreement as a starting point. Check the parties’ names, rental address, tenancy type, start date, rent and due date. Make the inclusions clear: utilities, parking, appliances, furnishings, snow clearing and lawn care. Record emergency contacts and keep a complete copy of the agreement and related documents.

Official sources: Standard Rental Agreement (PDF)

Build a clear condition and repair record

Walk through the property at move-in and move-out. Use a condition report, dated photographs and specific notes so existing wear can be distinguished from later changes. For example, record “scratch on the lower kitchen cupboard door” rather than “kitchen worn.”

For a repair request, describe the issue, where it is, when it began and any immediate safety concern. Keep the request, replies and completion notes together. The province provides condition-report and repair-request forms.

Official sources: Official condition-report and repair forms

Check the process before giving notice

Rent changes, entry, ending a tenancy and handling a security deposit each have specific rules. Before taking a step, identify the tenancy type, the applicable notice or form, the timing and the permitted way to deliver it. Keep evidence of delivery.

For deposits, verify the current limit, receipt requirements, interest and return or claim process. Avoid relying on an old form or a rule from another province.

Official sources: Guide for Landlords and Tenants (PDF) · Current provincial forms

Prepare a useful record if a disagreement arises

Write down the issue and the outcome you are seeking. If it remains unresolved, consult the province’s dispute-resolution guidance or seek legal advice. A short, organized timeline is easier to review than scattered messages.

  • Rental agreement and any written changes
  • Rent and deposit receipts or payment records
  • Condition reports, photographs and repair requests
  • Relevant correspondence, notices and delivery records
  • A dated summary of events and the requested resolution

Official sources: Provincial dispute-resolution guidance

General information, not legal advice. Check the current provincial rules and obtain advice about your own circumstances before acting.