Need Help Dealing With Bad Tenants? Read This!

Whether you're a seasoned rental property investor with a diversified portfolio in Calgary or an independent landlord relying on a few units for financial security, bad tenants are one of the biggest risks you face.

From missed rent payments and property damage to lease violations and legal disputes, a single problem tenant can turn your income stream into a source of stress.

But the good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone—and there are proven steps you can take to regain control, protect your investment, and prevent it from happening again.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. Recognize the Warning Signs Early

Bad tenants don’t always start off that way. Sometimes the red flags show up after they’ve moved in:

• Repeated late or missed rent payments

• Complaints from neighbors

• Signs of unauthorized occupants or pets

• Lack of communication or hostility when addressed

  
  

Don’t ignore these signals. The sooner you address the situation, the easier it is to resolve before it escalates.

2. Know Your Rights (And Theirs)

Landlord-tenant laws in Alberta are strict and specific, which is why understanding your legal rights—and the rights of your tenant—is critical. For example:

• You must provide proper written notice for eviction or entry into the property

• Rent increases must follow legal timelines and limits

• You cannot remove tenants or their belongings without a formal process

LeaseWell works with landlords across Calgary to navigate these legal frameworks, ensuring compliance and minimizing your risk.

3. Document Everything

If things start to go south, documentation is your best friend.

• Keep a record of all communication with your tenant

• Save copies of notices, lease agreements, and payment receipts

• Take date-stamped photos of the property before and after move-in

If legal action becomes necessary, this documentation can help protect you and support your case.

4. Use Professional Help When Needed

If the situation gets out of hand, don’t try to handle it solo. Working with a property management company or legal expert can save you time, money, and headaches.

LeaseWell offers:

• Tenant screening services to avoid bad tenants in the first place

• Support for eviction proceedings, lease enforcement, and dispute resolution

• Connections to trusted real estate lawyers and advisors in Calgary

5. Prevent Future Problems With Smart Leasing Practices

The best defense is a good offense. After dealing with a difficult tenant, it’s time to evaluate how to prevent it from happening again.

Here’s how:

• Use a thorough tenant screening process: background checks, employment verification, and rental history

• Create clear and comprehensive lease agreements that outline expectations, rules, and consequences

• Conduct regular inspections to stay ahead of any issues

  
  

At LeaseWell, we help landlords lease smarter with 360-degree marketing, pre-screened tenants, and local rental expertise so you’re set up for success from the start.

Final Thoughts

Bad tenants can create real challenges—but you’re not alone. With the right strategies, legal knowledge, and professional support, you can take control of the situation, protect your property, and get back to generating reliable rental income.

Struggling with tenant issues?Let LeaseWell help. Whether you need legal support, a better screening system, or a fresh start with a new lease, we’re here to assist.

Get a free rental property evaluation and start protecting your investment today.