No. If a landlord did not complete inspection reports, they cannot keep any of the security deposit to coverage damage to the unit. However, a landlord could still keep the security deposit to cover other things, such as unpaid rent.
The landlord must complete a move-in inspection one week before or after the tenant moves in. The landlord must also complete a move-out inspection one week before or after the tenant moves out. Further, the landlord must give tenants a copy of reports from both inspection. The landlord can complete the inspection without the tenant if a tenant refuses to take part in either inspection.
If the landlord does not return the security deposit, the tenant should write a letter requesting the return of it. If the deposit still isn’t returned, the tenant can file a complaint with Service Alberta. The tenant can also make an application for return of the security deposit in Provincial Court Civil or with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service.
February 2020
