BC Tenant FAQs: Maintenance and Repairs Explained

As a tenant in British Columbia, dealing with maintenance and repair issues is part of renting a home. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you resolve problems quickly and avoid disputes with your landlord. This guide addresses frequently asked questions about maintenance and repairs for BC tenants, including what to do if something breaks, how to request repairs, and what steps to take if your landlord doesn’t respond promptly.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs?

Under BC’s Residential Tenancy Act^[1], landlords must ensure the rental property meets health, safety, and housing standards. This includes keeping the unit in good repair and meeting building codes. Tenants are responsible for keeping their unit reasonably clean and repairing any damage they or their guests cause.

• Landlord’s duties: Fixing appliances included in the rental, repairing heat, plumbing, and major structural issues.
• Tenant’s duties: Reporting issues promptly and taking care of cleanliness and minor upkeep.

For more on general responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How Do I Request Repairs From My Landlord?

If you notice a repair is needed, always notify your landlord or property manager in writing (by email, letter, or the preferred method in your lease). State the problem clearly, the date you noticed it, and request a timeline for repair. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.

When Should Repairs Be Done?

• Urgent/emergency repairs (such as burst pipes, loss of heat in winter): Must be addressed as soon as possible.
• Routine repairs: Should be done within a reasonable time (usually a few days to a week depending on severity).

If you face repeated delays or unresolved repair requests, check out Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for strategies on how to escalate your request and protect your rights.

What If My Landlord Won’t Make Repairs?

If your landlord ignores your written request or doesn’t fix urgent issues promptly, you have the right to file for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). There are strict steps to follow, including using official forms and providing evidence of your communication.

Official Forms for Repairs and Dispute Resolution

• Request for Repair or Maintenance – Typically, tenants start with a written notice to the landlord, but if unresolved, use the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12).
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Submit this if the landlord fails to make repairs after notice. Example: Your heater breaks in winter, you’ve given written notice, the landlord delays, so you complete the RTB-12 to request an RTB hearing.

For emergency situations, such as a lack of heat in the middle of winter, you may also want to see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Are There Health and Safety Protections for Tenants?

Yes! Your landlord must provide a safe, healthy living environment. This includes repairing things that could pose a risk (like mold, pests, or broken locks). If these issues aren’t addressed, you may be able to withhold rent or end your tenancy early— but only after following proper legal steps. For a deeper explanation, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Additional Resources

• For a province-wide summary of your rights, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.
• To discover rental homes in your area, Explore rental homes in your area on Houseme.

1. What is the difference between emergency and routine repairs? Emergency repairs are urgent (like a burst pipe or no heat in winter) and must be fixed immediately. Routine repairs include things like leaky taps or broken cupboard doors, which should still be addressed but aren’t immediately hazardous.
2. Can I make a repair myself and deduct the cost from my rent? Generally, you should not do this without following strict legal procedures, such as giving the landlord written notice and time to complete the repair. If you do the repair yourself, keep detailed records and submit an application for dispute resolution if you want to deduct the cost.
3. How do I properly document a repair issue? Take clear photos, write detailed descriptions, and keep copies of every message you send or receive about the repair. Documentation is key if you need to pursue a dispute or recover costs later.
4. What if my landlord says the problem is my fault? Only damages caused by you or your guests are your responsibility. If there’s disagreement, you can present your evidence to the RTB for an impartial decision.
5. How can I learn more about my rights regarding maintenance in BC? Review the Tenant Rights in British Columbia page and consult the Residential Tenancy Branch for up-to-date information.

1. How do I apply for a dispute resolution if my landlord will not make a needed repair?
   1. Document the problem and all correspondence with your landlord.
   2. Download and complete the RTB-12 Application for Dispute Resolution.
   3. Submit the form and your evidence to the Residential Tenancy Branch, following their instructions.
   4. Attend the hearing to present your case and await a decision.
2. How can I make sure my repair request gets noticed?
   1. Send your request in writing and keep a copy.
   2. Describe the issue clearly, including when you first noticed it.
   3. Follow up if you don’t receive a prompt response.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• BC landlords are legally obliged to maintain rental units and address repairs.
• Always submit written repair requests and keep documentation.
• If repairs aren’t made, use RTB-12 to file a dispute with the RTB.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Information, forms, and dispute resolution for BC tenants and landlords.
• For support and advocacy, contact the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): tenants.bc.ca
• Read your complete rights: Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. ^[1] Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)

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