If you share living space with your landlord, then the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) does not apply. For example, the RTA does not apply when you rent a room in the landlord’s home. Likewise, it does not apply if you share a kitchen and/or living room with your landlord.
If you and your landlord have a problem, the first step is for you to communicate about the situation and try to work out a solution. If you reach an agreement, make sure it is in writing. It is important to document problems and their solutions in case you need to take further action.
Since the RTA does not apply, you do not have the option of going to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) if you need help resolving a problem. If you can’t reach a resolution with your landlord, you may wish to consider mediation or making an application to Alberta Court of Justice. You should get legal advice if you plan to make a court application.
A list of organizations that provide legal advice are located on our website.
For more information on shared accommodation, click here.
February 2020
