If you're renting in British Columbia and want to add another person—like a roommate, family member, or partner—to your lease, it's important to follow the correct procedures. This guide walks tenants in BC through how to add someone to your rental agreement, the required forms, and your rights under the Residential Tenancy Act.

Understanding Lease Changes in British Columbia

Whether you're welcoming a new partner or bringing in a roommate, making someone a legal tenant gives them rights and responsibilities equal to yours. It's not as simple as just having them move in and pay part of the rent—your landlord generally must agree, and you usually need to update your written lease.

• A new tenant on your lease is called an “additional tenant” or “co-tenant.”
• This person shares legal responsibility for the rental unit and the lease terms.
• All agreements about adding a person should be in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

Steps for Adding Someone to Your Lease

Here's a step-by-step summary before the details:

• Get your landlord’s written consent
• Use the correct official forms
• Update your lease agreement
• File documents properly

Step 1: Ask Your Landlord for Permission

In BC, landlords are not required to allow you to add someone to your lease, and should be informed in writing before anyone moves in. Check your lease agreement for terms about guests or additional tenants—some standard agreements limit occupancy or require approval for changes.

Step 2: Complete the Official Forms

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) manages tenancy issues and maintains official forms. To add a tenant, both you and your landlord must complete an updated tenancy agreement. There is no specific “Add Tenant” form; instead, you amend the original lease. Typically, this means completing a new Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1), which you can find from the official government site.

• When to use: When making any changes to a tenancy, including adding someone as a co-tenant.
• How it works: Complete a new RTB-1 form with all tenants' names and landlord's signature. Both new and old tenants should sign. All parties (including the landlord) should receive a copy.
• You can learn more or get help from the Residential Tenancy Branch.

If a security deposit is required for the new tenant, be clear on amounts and receipts. For more details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Step 3: Update Your Rental Agreement

After getting consent and filling out required forms, update your written rental agreement. Ensure it lists all current tenants and is signed by everyone, including the landlord. If your landlord refuses to recognize the new tenant after you've co-signed an agreement, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for guidance.

Step 4: Understand Everyone’s Rights and Responsibilities

Once added, the new tenant has the same legal rights and responsibilities. Rent payments, damage, and all other terms apply to everyone listed on the lease. For more, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What If the Landlord Refuses?

Landlords must have valid reasons to decline a request to add someone to the lease (such as exceeding occupancy limits or concerns about the person’s references). They cannot refuse for reasons violating human rights law (e.g., on the grounds of family status, marital status, or race). If you feel your request was unfairly refused, consider applying for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

For more detailed local information, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Looking for a new rental home for yourself or a new roommate? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Adding a Person to Your Lease in BC

1. Can my landlord refuse to add a roommate to my lease?
   Yes, but only for valid and legal reasons (not discriminatory ones or if it would break health or municipal occupancy rules).
2. Do I need to use an official form to add someone?
   You should update your Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1) to include the new tenant, ensuring all parties sign it.
3. What should I do if the new person only wants to move in temporarily?
   If the new occupant is a guest (not a tenant), written landlord approval is still recommended. If they'll pay rent or stay long-term, they should be added to the agreement.
4. Will my rent change if I add another tenant?
   Your existing lease terms still apply. Your landlord cannot increase rent outside regular annual guidelines because of a new tenant alone.
5. Does the security deposit change when adding a new tenant?
   The deposit may be increased, but only with your agreement. Ensure new amounts and receipts are recorded in writing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Always get your landlord's written consent before adding anyone to your lease.
• Use the official RTB-1 form to update your rental agreement and signatures.
• Know that both you and the new tenant share responsibility under BC’s tenancy laws.

Following these steps helps avoid disputes and ensures everyone in your home is protected by BC's rental laws.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): official forms, dispute resolution, information: 1-800-665-8779
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): free information, workshops, advocacy for BC tenants
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia: Comprehensive overview of your rights and responsibilities

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1. Residential Tenancy Act, official legislation.
2. Residential Tenancy Branch, official process for additional occupants.
3. Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1), official form.
4. Human Rights Code (BC), official legislation.

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