Setting an asking rent
- Compare similar homes nearby that are currently advertised: same type, size, condition and inclusions.
- Use published data with a date and source, such as the CMHC Housing Market Information Portal. Don't rely on unsourced averages.
- Adjust for what's included: utilities, parking, appliances, furnishings, yard care and snow removal.
- A home priced right usually rents faster, and every vacant month costs you a full month's rent.
We don't publish average rents on this site until we can cite a dated, official source for each figure.
Rules on rent increases
- No more than one increase every 365 days, counted from the start of the tenancy or the last increase.
- In a fixed-term tenancy, if the 365th day falls during the term, rent can't go up until the term ends, even if the lease has an automatic-increase clause (RTA Handbook).
- For a monthly tenancy, give at least 3 full tenancy months' written notice. For a weekly tenancy, give 12 full tenancy weeks.
- The RTA doesn't cap the amount of an increase.
- Non-refundable fees count as rent, so they're subject to the same rules.
- A rent increase aimed at pushing out a tenant because of a protected ground (for example pregnancy or having children) can be discrimination under the Alberta Human Rights Act.
General information only, not legal advice. The Residential Tenancies Act and its regulations are the final word; check the official sources above or get legal advice for your situation.