Housing (BC)
Understand your rights as a tenant in BC, find housing, resolve disputes, and protect yourself from rental scams. Learn about deposits, repairs, and the Residential Tenancy Branch.
đ Renting Basics in BC
Renting in BC comes with rights and responsibilities. Understanding leases, roommates, and documentation helps protect you and ensures a smooth rental experience.
What to Do Now:
- âRead your lease/tenancy agreement carefully before signing - understand all terms
- âIf you have roommates, clarify who is on the lease and who is responsible for what
- âDocument the condition of the unit when you move in (photos, written condition report)
- âKeep copies of all documents: lease, receipts, communications with landlord
- âKnow that BC has standard tenancy agreements - landlords must use them
- âUnderstand that you cannot be evicted without proper notice and legal process
đ°Deposits + Move-in/Move-out
BC has specific rules about security deposits, pet deposits, and move-in/move-out inspections. Understanding these protects your money and helps avoid disputes.
What to Do Now:
- âKnow that security deposits are limited to half of one month's rent (or one month if pet damage deposit)
- âComplete a condition inspection report when you move in - document everything
- âWhen moving out, request a move-out inspection - landlord must give you 15 days notice
- âLandlord must return deposit within 15 days of move-out (or provide written reasons for deductions)
- âIf deposit is wrongfully withheld, you can file a dispute with RTB
- âKeep receipts for any cleaning or repairs you do before moving out
Useful Links:
Related Guides:
đ§Repairs & Maintenance
Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental unit in good repair. Learn how to document issues, request repairs, and escalate if your landlord doesn't respond.
What to Do Now:
- âReport repair issues to your landlord in writing (email or letter) - keep copies
- âDocument the problem with photos, videos, and written descriptions
- âGive landlord reasonable time to fix (usually 10-30 days depending on urgency)
- âFor urgent repairs (heat, plumbing, safety), landlord must fix immediately
- âIf landlord doesn't respond, you can apply to RTB for a repair order
- âIn extreme cases, you may be able to deduct repair costs from rent (but check RTB rules first)
Related Guides:
âī¸Dispute Resolution (RTB)
The BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) helps resolve disputes between tenants and landlords. You can file applications for various issues including deposits, repairs, and illegal evictions.
What to Do Now:
- âTry to resolve issues with your landlord directly first (document all attempts)
- âGather all documentation: lease, photos, emails, receipts, condition reports
- âFile an RTB application online or by mail - there are filing fees (may be waived for low income)
- âRTB will schedule a hearing (can be by phone or video) - both parties present their case
- âRTB decisions are binding and enforceable - landlord must comply
- âConsider getting help from TRAC (Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre) before filing
Useful Links:
đ¤Tenant Support (TRAC)
TRAC (Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre) provides free information, advice, and support to tenants in BC. They can help you understand your rights and navigate disputes.
What to Do Now:
- âVisit TRAC's website for free tenant guides and information
- âCall TRAC's tenant hotline for advice on your specific situation
- âUse TRAC's resources before filing an RTB application - they can help you prepare
- âTRAC offers workshops and webinars on tenant rights
- âAll services are free and confidential
Useful Links:
đ¨Rental Scams
Rental scams are common, especially targeting students and newcomers. Learn how to identify scams, verify listings, and protect yourself from fraud.
What to Do Now:
- âNever send money (deposit, rent) before viewing the unit in person
- âVerify the landlord owns the property (check BC Land Title Office or ask for proof)
- âBe suspicious of prices that seem too good to be true
- âWatch for red flags: landlord "out of country," requests for wire transfers, pressure to act fast
- âUse reverse image search to check if photos are stolen from other listings
- âIf you're scammed, report to police and Consumer Protection BC
â ī¸ Learn More: For detailed information about rental scams and how to protect yourself, visit our Fraud & Safety page â