What repairs are landlords required to make by law?

Landlords must maintain the property in a good state of repair, including plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, and address anything that threatens health or safety.

Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?

No, BC law does not permit tenants to withhold rent for unpaid repairs unless authorized by an order from the Residential Tenancy Branch.

What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?

You should document your request in writing, wait a reasonable period, and if there’s no response, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch using the Application for Dispute Resolution form.

Is my landlord responsible for repairing appliances?

If appliances were provided as part of your rental agreement, your landlord is usually responsible for their repair and maintenance, unless agreed otherwise.

How quickly must emergency repairs be handled?

Emergency repairs (such as no heat in winter, major leaks, or unsafe conditions) should be addressed right away. If not, notify authorities and consider applying for dispute resolution.

5 Essential Maintenance & Repair Tips for Tenants in BC

Maintenance & Repairs British Columbia published July 01, 2025

If you’re renting a home or apartment in British Columbia, knowing your rights and responsibilities regarding maintenance and repairs is key to a safe and comfortable living experience. The Residential Tenancy Act sets out important rules for tenants and landlords alike, especially when it comes to repair requests, emergency situations, and keeping your unit healthy and safe. Understanding these rules can help you avoid stress, keep your deposit safe, and ensure your rental home stays in good condition.

1. Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have specific duties regarding the upkeep of rental units. In most cases, your landlord is responsible for ensuring that your home meets health, safety, and housing standards. This includes making repairs to major systems such as heating, plumbing, and electrical, as well as structural repairs.

Tenants must: Keep the home reasonably clean and notify the landlord in writing about any needed repairs or damage.
Landlords must: Maintain the property in a state fit for occupation and repair, as detailed in your rental agreement and the Residential Tenancy Act^[1].

To further understand your rights and obligations, check out the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained guide.

2. Reporting and Requesting Repairs

If something in your rental unit needs fixing, it’s your responsibility to notify your landlord as soon as possible. Notices should always be in writing—an email, letter, or written maintenance request will create a record. Include details of the problem and request a reasonable repair timeline.

For regular (non-emergency) repairs, landlords must act within a reasonable timeframe, but this can vary depending on the issue. If your landlord does not respond, you may have additional options through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

3. Dealing with Emergency and Routine Repairs

Emergencies—like loss of heat in winter or a burst water pipe—must be addressed immediately. You can seek help or take steps yourself if the landlord is unreachable, but always try to inform them first. Routine repairs (like a broken window or leaking tap) should still be reported quickly to avoid further problems.

If the landlord refuses or ignores urgent requests, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for repairs. For help with urgent situations, visit the Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities resource.

4. Health and Safety Concerns

Every tenant in BC has the right to live in a home that is healthy and safe. Your landlord must fix issues that could affect your well-being, like mould, pests, or faulty smoke detectors. If your living environment becomes unsafe, you can:

Ask your landlord for immediate repairs
Contact local health or bylaw authorities if repairs are serious or ignored

To learn more about your rights regarding unsafe conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

5. Using the Right Forms for Repair Requests

BC tenants can use official forms when requesting repairs or applying for dispute resolution if repairs aren’t done. The main ones include:

Request for Repairs (No number): Use a written letter or email to your landlord listing the repairs and the date sent.
Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12): If repairs are delayed or denied, submit this form to the Residential Tenancy Branch to resolve the dispute.
Example: You report a broken heater; after a week, nothing has been done. Fill out Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12) and submit it online or in person.

These forms make it easier to formally request repairs or start the process if you need the Residential Tenancy Branch to step in.

Tip: Always keep copies of written requests and any correspondence with your landlord. This documentation can be crucial if there’s a disagreement later.

Staying informed is your best defense. For a complete overview, visit the Tenant Rights in British Columbia facts page. If you’re searching for your next safe and well-maintained home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

What repairs are landlords required to make by law?
Landlords must maintain the property in a good state of repair, including plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, and address anything that threatens health or safety.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
No, BC law does not permit tenants to withhold rent for unpaid repairs unless authorized by an order from the Residential Tenancy Branch.
What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?
You should document your request in writing, wait a reasonable period, and if there’s no response, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch using the Application for Dispute Resolution form.
Is my landlord responsible for repairing appliances?
If appliances were provided as part of your rental agreement, your landlord is usually responsible for their repair and maintenance, unless agreed otherwise.
How quickly must emergency repairs be handled?
Emergency repairs (such as no heat in winter, major leaks, or unsafe conditions) should be addressed right away. If not, notify authorities and consider applying for dispute resolution.

How-To: Requesting Repairs and Taking Action in BC

How do I request a repair from my landlord?
Write a detailed request by email or letter, describing the issue and when you first noticed it. Keep a copy for your records.
How can I escalate an unresolved repair problem?
After documenting the problem and giving the landlord reasonable time, you can file an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) with the Residential Tenancy Branch along with all your evidence.
How do I fill out and submit the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12)?
Download the form from the government site, complete all sections (include your repair request documentation), and submit it online, by mail, or in person at a Residential Tenancy Branch office.

Key Takeaways

Both tenants and landlords have important responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.
Always report repair needs in writing and retain copies for your records.
For unresolved concerns, use official forms and know your options through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

BC Residential Tenancy Branch: Official information, forms, and dispute resolution.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Support and advocacy for renters in British Columbia.
For provincial facts and additional guides, see the Tenant Rights in British Columbia page.