How to check whether the landlord really owns the property?

Finding a home to rent in Calgary is an important step, especially for newly arrived immigrants or those looking for a place to live remotely. One of the key safety points is to make sure that the landlord is actually authorized to rent out the property they offer. This will help avoid fraud, financial losses, and legal problems. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to check a landlord's ownership of a Calgary apartment and what steps you should take to protect your interests.

Why is it important to check the landlord's title?

• Fraud prevention.** There are cases where fraudsters rent out homes they do not own.
• Legal security.** Signing a contract with the owner guarantees the legality of the transaction and the protection of your rights.
• Confidence in the quality of housing.** The owner is interested in maintaining the housing in good condition.
• Preventing conflicts.** If the landlord is not the owner, you may have problems with eviction or deposit refund.

The main ways to check the landlord's ownership in Calgary are.

1. Ask for proof of ownership

Ask the landlord to provide:

• A certificate of ownership of the property.
• A copy of the most recent property tax bill.
• Powers of attorney if the landlord is an agent or representative of the owner. This is the first and easiest way to make sure that a person has legal grounds to rent out the property.

2. Check information in public real estate registers

In the province of Alberta, there are public real estate registries where you can check the owner of a specific address:

• Contact the Land Titles Office or use online services to check the title.
• Check if the owner's name matches the landlord's name.
• If in doubt, you can contact a lawyer or realtor to help you verify.

3. Use the help of real estate agencies

If you are renting through an agency, make sure it is licensed and reputable. Agencies usually check the property before signing a contract.

4. Check the lease agreement

• The contract should clearly state who owns the property.
• The contract should contain information about the address, rent amount, rental period, and other terms.
• Read the agreement carefully before signing it and consult a lawyer if necessary.

Additional tips for safe renting

• Personal meeting and inspection of the property.** Do not agree to a lease without a personal inspection and meeting with the landlord.
• Avoid prepayment without a contract.** Do not send money before signing a contract and inspecting the property.
• Check the landlord's contacts.** Look for reviews and information on the Internet.
• Contact official authorities.** If in doubt, contact the Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

What should I do if I am in doubt?

• Consult a lawyer who specializes in real estate.
• Call the Land Titles Office for an official check.
• Report any suspicious activity to the police or the appropriate authorities.

Conclusion

Verifying the landlord's title is an important step for safe rental housing in Calgary. Requesting documents, checking in public registries, using the services of licensed agencies, and paying attention to the contract will help you avoid fraud and ensure the legality of the transaction. By following these recommendations, you will be able to rent a home with confidence and protect your rights.