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Landlord and Tenant Information for Albertans

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You are here: Home / Legislation / FAQ – A tenant did not move into a property but already paid an application fee to the landlord. Can the landlord keep the money?

FAQ – A tenant did not move into a property but already paid an application fee to the landlord. Can the landlord keep the money?

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The Residential Tenancies Act does not prohibit landlords from charging application fees. If there is an application form, the tenant should review it carefully before signing it and handing over any money. If the application form says that the application fee is non-refundable, then the money will not be paid back. This is the case even if the tenant decides not to move in or if the landlord does not accept the tenant’s application.

Tip 1: Be sure to have in writing whether an application fee is refundable or not.

Tip 2: Not all landlords charge an application fee. If you do not want to pay an application fee to rent, then you may want to look for a different property to rent.

February 2020

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  • About
    • About CPLEA and Disclaimer
    • Copyright Statement
  • Topics
    • Legislation
    • Leases and Agreements
    • Security Deposits
    • Inspection Reports
    • Responsibilities
    • Roommates, Subletting, and Assignment
    • Repairs
    • Notices
      • Eviction Notice (Notice of Termination of Tenancy for Substantial Breach)
      • Notice of Objection to an Eviction Notice
      • Notice of Entry by the Landlord
      • Notice of Landlord
      • Notice of Rent Increase
      • Notice of Termination of a Periodic Tenancy for Allowable Reasons
      • Notice to End a Periodic Tenancy
      • Tenant’s 14 Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy
    • Dispute Resolution
  • Resources
  • FAQs
  • Glossary
  • Find Help
    • Forms
    • Legal Advice
    • Government & Court Services