Tenant questions, answered.
Everything renters ask us about applying, leases, rent, deposits, maintenance and moving out in Edmonton.
Applying
How do I apply for a Skylark rental?
Book a viewing from the listing, then apply online. Every adult who will live in the home applies.
What do you check?
Credit, income and employment, landlord references and ID.
Do I need a co-signer?
Sometimes, depending on credit and income.
Can I view a home virtually?
Yes, many listings have 3D tours or video walkthroughs.
Do you rent to students and newcomers to Canada?
Yes, with the same criteria for everyone.
Leases and rent
How long are your leases?
12-month fixed terms or month-to-month, depending on the home.
How do I pay rent?
Directly to the property owner, using the method in your lease.
When is rent due?
On the date in your lease, usually the 1st.
Can my rent go up?
Not during a fixed term. For periodic tenancies, once every 12 months with proper written notice.
Are utilities included?
It depends on the home; the listing and lease say which utilities you pay.
Is tenant insurance required?
Yes. Every Skylark lease requires tenant insurance.
Can I have a pet?
It depends on the home. Each owner sets the pet terms, and the listing and lease will say.
Can I sublet or have a roommate?
Only with written consent, which won't be unreasonably refused.
Deposits and moving in
How much is the security deposit?
Never more than one month's rent, as Alberta law requires.
Where is my deposit kept?
In a trust account held by the property owner, as Alberta law requires.
What happens at move-in?
We do a written inspection together, sign the report and hand over keys.
Why does the move-in inspection matter?
It records the home's condition so you're not charged for anything that was there before you.
Can I paint or make changes?
Ask first in writing.
Where do I get parking passes or fobs?
From us at move-in.
Can I move in early?
If the home is ready and the lease allows. Ask us.
Living in a Skylark home
How do I request maintenance?
Through the Resident Centre online, with photos, any time.
What counts as an emergency?
No heat in winter, flooding, gas smell, fire or a security issue. Call the emergency line.
When can the landlord enter?
With at least 24 hours' written notice for permitted reasons, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., or without notice in an emergency.
Who handles snow and garbage?
It depends on the property; your lease and building rules explain it.
What if a neighbour is too loud?
Let us know in writing and we'll follow up under the lease.
Can I get a parking stall or storage?
Where available, by separate agreement.
How do I renew my lease?
We'll contact you before your term ends with renewal options.
How do I leave a review?
From the Reviews page or the Google link we send after move-in or repairs.
Moving out
How much notice do I give?
For a monthly periodic tenancy, one full tenancy month in writing. A fixed-term lease ends on its end date.
What is the move-out inspection?
We inspect together and compare with the move-in report.
When do I get my deposit back?
Within 10 days after you give up possession, with a statement of any deductions.
What can be deducted?
Unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, as shown by the inspection reports.
Do you have a cleaning checklist?
Yes, we send one when you give notice.
General information only, not legal advice. Alberta tenancy rules are set by the Residential Tenancies Act; check the current Act or RTDRS for your situation.
Get a management proposal built for your property.
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