First-Time Renter Checklist for Alberta

Before you start browsing listings, figure out what you can actually afford. The general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. In Calgary's 2026 market, that means:

• A household income of $55,000/year can target rents up to ~$1,375/month
• A household income of $70,000/year can target rents up to ~$1,750/month
• A household income of $90,000/year can target rents up to ~$2,250/month

But rent is not your only housing cost. Factor in:

• Utilities: $100 - $250/month if not included (electricity, gas, water)
• Internet: $60 - $100/month
• Tenant insurance: $20 - $40/month
• Parking: $50 - $200/month if not included
• Laundry: $30 - $50/month if coin-operated

Also plan for upfront costs: first month's rent plus a security deposit (up to one month's rent in Alberta). You will need approximately two months' rent available on or before move-in day.

Landlords in Alberta will want to verify your identity, income, and rental history. Having these ready speeds up your application and shows you are serious:

• Government-issued photo ID: Driver's license, passport, or Alberta ID card.
• Proof of income: Two to three recent pay stubs, an employment letter, or a Notice of Assessment if self-employed. Students can provide proof of student loans or a letter from a guarantor.
• Credit report: You can get a free credit report from Equifax or TransUnion. A score above 650 is generally considered good by landlords.
• References: Contact information for 1-2 previous landlords (or a personal reference if this is your first rental). Let your references know they may be contacted.
• Employment letter: A letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and start date. This is especially useful if you are new to a job.

If you want to streamline the process, consider building a SQRFT Tenant Passport -- it packages your credit check, ID verification, and references into one shareable profile that works across multiple applications.

Start your search 4 to 6 weeks before your target move-in date. Most landlords want to fill a unit 2 to 4 weeks in advance, so searching too early means the unit may not be available by the time you need it.

When reviewing listings, pay attention to:

• What is included: Some rentals include heat, water, electricity, parking, or laundry. This significantly affects the true cost.
• Lease term: Is it a 12-month fixed-term or month-to-month? Fixed terms offer price stability; month-to-month offers flexibility.
• Pet policy: If you have pets, confirm the policy before booking a viewing. In Alberta, landlords can legally ban pets.
• Location relative to your commute: Use Google Maps to check drive times or transit routes during peak hours.

Shortlist 5 to 10 properties and schedule viewings for the same day or weekend if possible. Seeing multiple units in a short window helps you compare more effectively.

A viewing is your chance to inspect the unit and ask questions. Do not just look at the finishes -- check the fundamentals:

• Water pressure: Turn on taps in the kitchen and bathroom. Flush the toilet.
• Appliances: Open the fridge, turn on the stove burners, check the oven, run the dishwasher if present.
• Windows and doors: Do they open, close, and lock properly? Check for drafts.
• Electrical outlets: Bring your phone charger and test a few outlets in each room.
• Cell signal: Check your mobile reception in different rooms, especially if you work from home.
• Signs of pests: Look under sinks, behind appliances, and along baseboards for droppings or evidence of insects.
• Storage: Check closet sizes, any included storage locker, and whether there is room for your belongings.
• Common areas: Look at the lobby, hallways, laundry room, and parking. Their condition reflects building management quality.

Take photos and notes during each viewing. After seeing several units, details blend together and it helps to have a record.

The lease is a legal contract. Read every word before signing. Here is what to look for:

• Rent amount and due date: Confirm the monthly amount and when it is due (typically the 1st of each month).
• Lease term: Start date, end date, and what happens when the term expires (automatic renewal, conversion to month-to-month, etc.).
• Security deposit: The amount charged and confirmation that it does not exceed one month's rent (the legal maximum in Alberta).
• What is included: Utilities, parking, storage, laundry -- get it in writing.
• Pet policy: If you have or plan to get a pet, confirm this is allowed in writing.
• Maintenance responsibilities: Who handles snow removal, yard care, and minor repairs?
• Early termination: What are the penalties or conditions if you need to break the lease early?

Remember: any clause that contradicts the Residential Tenancies Act is unenforceable, even if you sign it. For example, a clause waiving your right to a move-in inspection is void.

If anything is unclear, ask the landlord for clarification in writing before signing. Do not feel pressured to sign on the spot.

Under Alberta's RTA, a move-in inspection must be completed within one week before your tenancy starts or on move-in day. This inspection documents the condition of the unit and protects you when it comes time to get your deposit back.

During the inspection:

• Walk through every room with the landlord or their representative
• Note any existing damage: scuffs, stains, dents, scratches, broken fixtures
• Test all appliances, lights, and plumbing
• Check walls, floors, ceilings, windows, and doors
• Take date-stamped photos and videos as supplementary evidence
• Both you and the landlord must sign the completed report

Keep a copy of the signed inspection report in a safe place. When you move out, a similar inspection will be done. Your deposit refund will be based on comparing the two reports. You cannot be charged for normal wear and tear -- only damage beyond what is expected for the length of your tenancy.

Before move-in day, set up any utilities that are not included in your rent:

• Electricity and gas: In Calgary, ENMAX is the default electricity provider. You can choose your retailer through the Utilities Consumer Advocate.
• Water: If you are renting a house or townhome, contact the City of Calgary to set up a water account.
• Internet: TELUS and Shaw (Rogers) are the major providers. Compare plans and schedule installation a few days before move-in.
• Tenant insurance: Strongly recommended even though it is not legally required. Basic policies start at $20/month and cover personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if your unit becomes unlivable.

Also update your address with Canada Post, your bank, your employer, the CRA, and any subscription services. You can set up mail forwarding with Canada Post to catch anything that still goes to your old address.

A few practical things to do on or around move-in day:

• Collect all keys: Unit key, mailbox key, fob for building entry, garage remote if applicable. Test them all.
• Locate important things: Find the breaker panel, water shut-off valve, and thermostat. Know where the fire extinguisher and exits are.
• Introduce yourself: If you are in a building, let the property manager know you have moved in. In a house, introduce yourself to neighbors -- it builds goodwill.
• Document everything: If you notice anything on move-in day that was not caught in the inspection, email the landlord immediately with photos.
• Set up automatic payments: If your landlord accepts direct deposit or e-transfer, set up automatic rent payments so you never miss a due date.

Congratulations -- you have made it through the process. Keep your lease, inspection report, and all correspondence with your landlord in an organized folder. These documents are your protection for the duration of your tenancy.