10 Key Facts for BC Renters Moving In or Out

Preparing to move in or out of a rental in British Columbia? Tenants have specific rights and responsibilities under the province’s Residential Tenancy Act. This guide covers 10 must-know facts to help you navigate moving day with confidence and avoid common problems.

Moving Into a Rental: What to Know

1. Security Deposits: Maximums and Receipts

Landlords in BC can ask for a security deposit of up to half a month’s rent. If you have a pet, an additional pet deposit—also up to half a month’s rent—may be charged. Always get a written receipt for each deposit.
Learn more about how deposits work in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Your Right to an Initial Condition Inspection

Before you move in, you and your landlord must complete an initial condition inspection report together. This document notes the state of the unit at move-in and helps prevent disputes later. Both parties must sign and get a copy. For detailed steps, visit Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

3. Know What the Rental Agreement Covers

The rental agreement, sometimes called a lease, outlines your basic rights, rent due dates, and rules. Make sure you understand every section before signing. Most rental agreements must include contact information, rent amount, and tenancy terms. For more, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

4. Health and Safety Standards

Your new rental must be safe and meet BC housing standards—this covers everything from working locks to pest-free premises and heating. If there are issues, notify your landlord in writing. The Residential Tenancy Branch sets out these requirements.

5. Get Ready for Moving Day

• Arrange utilities to start on your move-in date.
• Document the unit with photos during your condition inspection.
• Keep copies of all agreements and correspondence.

Moving Out: Important Steps

6. Proper Notice Is Required

To end your tenancy, you must provide written notice on the correct form. Most tenants on a month-to-month lease must give at least one full month's notice using the Notice to End Tenancy – Form RTB-12. You can get this form from the Residential Tenancy Branch. For fixed-term leases, review your agreement and BC rules.

7. The Final Inspection Matters

Before leaving, arrange a move-out condition inspection with your landlord. Both parties complete and sign the report to compare the unit’s condition to move-in. This impacts if you get your deposit back. For details, check The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

8. How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

• Complete the move-out inspection and return keys.
• Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing using Notification of Address for Service – Form RTB-47. Download the form from the official government forms page.
• If your landlord doesn’t return your deposit within 15 days, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch.

See also: How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

9. Clean and Restore the Unit

Leave your rental as clean as when you moved in. Remove all personal belongings, repair minor damages (normal wear and tear is allowed), and hand in all keys, remotes, and passes.

10. Be Aware of Your Rights and How to Resolve Issues

If you and your landlord disagree over repairs, cleaning, or deposits, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch. Review your rights by visiting Tenant Rights in British Columbia or check BC’s Residential Tenancy Act for detailed legislation.
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