How Much Can a Landlord Charge as a Security Deposit in Alberta?
This answer covers the law of Alberta.
In Alberta, a landlord cannot charge a security deposit of more than one month's rent, or the monthly equivalent if rent is paid on another schedule. The limit applies at the time the tenancy starts, and only rent paid directly to the landlord counts toward it, not payments to third parties such as utility providers.
A security deposit is any money, property or right a tenant gives a landlord to secure the tenant's obligations, or to be returned when a condition occurs. Because that definition is wide, it is worth asking how any extra payment is described. Whether a pet deposit or fee is allowed depends on the facts, so confirm with a lawyer before paying. A separate deposit for sub-metered heat, natural gas or electricity is separate from the security deposit.
After you pay, the deposit cannot be increased during the tenancy, including when rent rises. A cash deposit must go into an interest-bearing trust account within 2 banking days. Interest is paid at the prescribed rate, which the Alberta.ca chart lists as 0.0% for 2026.
Key takeaways
- The security deposit cannot exceed one month's rent, or the monthly equivalent if rent is paid on another schedule.
- Only rent paid directly to the landlord counts toward the limit, not payments to third parties such as utility providers.
- The deposit cannot be increased during the tenancy, including when the rent goes up.
- Whether a pet deposit or other extra fee is allowed depends on the facts, so confirm with a lawyer before paying.