BC Tenant Maintenance & Repairs: Newcomer’s Guide

Moving into a new rental home in British Columbia means understanding how maintenance and repairs work—key to a safe and comfortable tenancy. If you’re unsure about who handles what or how to request repairs, this guide explains everything in plain language and supports your rights as a tenant under BC law.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs?

In British Columbia, both landlords and tenants have legal duties regarding maintenance and repairs. The law outlines who is responsible for what, ensuring homes are safe, healthy, and well-maintained.

• Landlord’s responsibilities: Landlords must maintain the rental unit in a condition that complies with health, safety, and housing standards. This means keeping things like heating, plumbing, and locks in good working order.
• Tenant’s responsibilities: Tenants must keep their unit reasonably clean and undamaged and promptly report any needed repairs.

For a detailed breakdown of landlord and tenant obligations—including everyday examples—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Legal Standards and Your Rights

Your rights and responsibilities come from the Residential Tenancy Act of British Columbia.^[1] This legislation protects you whether you’re renting an apartment, suite, or entire house.

For a summary of your legal protections, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Routine Repairs vs. Emergency Repairs

Not all repairs are urgent. Here’s the difference:

• Routine repairs include issues like leaky faucets, cracked windows, or broken appliances (if supplied by the landlord). Landlords generally handle these, once they know about the problem.
• Emergency repairs cover major issues that threaten health or safety—such as burst pipes, no heat in winter, or broken locks. Act quickly if you face these scenarios.

For details on what qualifies and how to respond, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord

Here’s what to do if something breaks or needs fixing:

1. Let your landlord know as soon as possible. Written requests (email is fine) create a record.
2. Be clear—describe the issue, location, and why it needs fixing.
3. Keep copies of all communications for your records.

If Repairs Aren’t Made: Next Steps

If your landlord does not make necessary repairs after you’ve given proper notice, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for help.

• Complete the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)
• Download the RTB-12 form here
• Submit with details and evidence (messages, photos, receipts)
• A tribunal will review and may order repairs, deductions in rent, or other remedies

This process is handled by the BC Residential Tenancy Branch, which deals with all rental housing disputes.

Initial Move-In and Inspection

When you first move in, you and your landlord should complete a condition inspection report together. This ensures you both agree on the unit’s state and helps avoid disputes later, especially related to your deposit or alleged damages.

For practical tips, check out Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Essential Forms for BC Tenants

• Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27): Document the unit’s state at move-in and move-out.
  Get the RTB-27 here. Fill it out with your landlord and keep copies—critical for protecting your deposit.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Use if a landlord won’t complete repairs or disputes arise. See above for details.
• Emergency Repairs Notice: If you pay for emergency repairs out of pocket, you must notify your landlord (preferably in writing) and keep receipts for reimbursement. See official repair rules here.

What About Health and Safety Concerns?

BC law says landlords must provide a home free from hazards like mould, pests, or other threats to your well-being. If basic health or safety is at risk, contact your landlord and, if needed, your local health authority. Read more at Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

For those still searching, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and safeguard your tenancy from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maintenance & Repairs in BC

1. Who is responsible for fixing things in my apartment in British Columbia?
   Landlords are required to handle most repairs (like heating, plumbing, and appliances they provide), while tenants must keep the home clean and report problems quickly.
2. What do I do if my landlord doesn't respond to my repair request?
   If your landlord doesn’t act within a reasonable time, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch using the RTB-12 form.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t fix something?
   No. BC law prohibits withholding rent. Always use legal procedures and apply through the tribunal instead.
4. Does the landlord have to fix pests or mould?
   Yes. Landlords must address health and safety risks (like pests or mould) under BC’s Residential Tenancy Act.
5. Should I complete an inspection at move-in?
   Yes. A move-in inspection report is vital—it protects you from being blamed for previous damage and ensures you can recover your deposit.

How To Request Repairs or Apply for Tenant Remedies in BC

1. How do I formally ask my landlord for repairs?
   Write your landlord a dated email or letter describing the problem and request repairs. Keep a copy.
2. What if my landlord still doesn't fix the problem?
   Complete the RTB-12 Application for Dispute Resolution, include photos and communication records, and submit to the Residential Tenancy Branch.
3. How do I complete the Condition Inspection Report?
   Walk through your home with the landlord at move-in and move-out, record any damage or wear, sign together, and keep a copy.
4. Can I fix something myself and get reimbursed?
   Only emergency repairs qualify, and you must follow legal steps: notify the landlord immediately, keep receipts, and provide them for reimbursement.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords are legally responsible for most repairs and maintenance in BC
• Document all issues and requests in writing—and keep your own records
• If problems aren’t fixed, use official forms and the Residential Tenancy Branch process for help

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – For disputes, forms, and official guides
• Download BC tenancy forms, including applications and inspection reports: Official Forms Portal
• Local health unit or city bylaw office – Report major safety or habitability concerns
• Explore Tenant Rights in British Columbia for more legal info about your rights as a renter

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

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