When you move out of a rental unit in British Columbia, knowing how and when you’ll get your security or pet deposit back can make the transition smoother. BC has clear rules outlining deposit refund timelines and processes that every tenant should understand.

Understanding Rental Deposits in BC

In British Columbia, tenants usually pay a security deposit (and sometimes a pet damage deposit) when moving into a new rental. These funds are meant to cover unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other eligible costs at the end of the tenancy. For a full explanation of how these deposits work, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Deposit rules, including refund timelines, are governed by the Residential Tenancy Act^[1]. Both tenants and landlords have rights and responsibilities under this law.

Deposit Refund Timelines and Process

How Long Does a Landlord Have to Return a Deposit?

After the tenancy ends and you’ve moved out, your landlord has 15 days to:

• Return your security and/or pet damage deposit in full (plus any interest owed), or
• Apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to keep all or part of the deposit

This 15-day count starts only after both these things have happened:

• Your tenancy agreement has ended, and
• You’ve provided the landlord with your forwarding address in writing

What If the Deposit Is Not Refunded on Time?

If the landlord does not return your deposit or apply to keep it within 15 days, you can claim the full amount back—even if there was damage—unless you agreed in writing that they could keep part or all of the deposit.

The Role of Inspections for Deposit Refunds

Move-out and move-in inspections are essential steps to protect your deposit. The Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants explains what to expect, and how documentation can help resolve disputes over damage.

Your landlord should offer you a move-out inspection. Signing this report doesn’t always mean you agree on deductions, but it can be vital evidence if you disagree on deposit returns.

When Can a Landlord Keep Part or All of Your Deposit?

Your landlord can only keep money from your deposit for:

• Repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Unpaid rent or bills (like utilities, if agreed in your lease)
• Other reasons stated in the tenancy agreement or allowed by law

They cannot keep the deposit for normal cleaning or ordinary wear. If you disagree, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Official Forms You May Need

• Forwarding Address Form: Provide your new address to your landlord in writing. No specific government form is required, but written notice (email, letter, or text) is essential.
• Form RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution – If your deposit is not returned or you dispute a deduction, file this form with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
  • How to use: Complete the Application for Dispute Resolution form and submit online or at a Service BC location.
  • Example: You moved out, gave your landlord your forwarding address, and 15 days have passed with no refund. You can use RTB-12 to claim your deposit back.

How to Get Your Deposit Back: Steps for Tenants

• Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing when you move out
• Attend the move-out inspection with your landlord
• Wait up to 15 days for your deposit refund
• If the deadline passes, request the deposit in writing
• If no response, file for dispute resolution using RTB-12

Where to Find More Tenant Rights Information

For more about your legal protections in BC, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

If you’re planning your next move, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Deposit Refunds in British Columbia

1. Do I get my deposit back with interest in BC?
   Yes. Landlords must pay the interest that has accumulated on your deposit, as set each year by the provincial government.
2. What happens if my landlord refuses to return my deposit?
   You can file an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-12) to the Residential Tenancy Branch to claim your money back.
3. Is a move-out inspection required for deposit refunds?
   Yes, landlords must offer an inspection at move-out and document the condition of the unit. This process helps determine if damage deductions apply.
4. How do I give my forwarding address?
   There is no official form. Provide your new address to your landlord in writing (email or letter) as soon as you move out.
5. Can my landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?
   No. Only damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other allowed charges can be deducted from your deposit.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• In BC, landlords must refund deposits within 15 days of receiving your written forwarding address after the tenancy ends.
• Always provide your forwarding address in writing and attend the move-out inspection to protect your deposit.
• If there are issues, you can apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – Information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Tenant support and legal advice
• BC Government: Dispute Resolution for Tenants – Guidance on applications and evidence

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch, Government of BC

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