If you’ve been denied a rental home in British Columbia because you have a pet, you’re not alone. Many renters face challenges related to pet ownership. This article explains your legal rights under BC tenancy law, what’s considered discrimination, and how to take action if you believe you’ve been treated unfairly.
Are Landlords Allowed to Refuse Tenants with Pets in BC?
In British Columbia, landlords generally have the right to include 'no pets' clauses in new tenancy agreements. The Residential Tenancy Act does not prevent landlords from prohibiting pets, with some exceptions. Pet restrictions should be made clear in the rental agreement before you sign.
Pet Clauses and Deposits
If your rental agreement allows pets, landlords are allowed to charge a pet damage deposit (up to half of one month’s rent). This deposit is different from your regular security deposit. For more about deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
When is Refusing Pets Discrimination?
While a landlord can generally refuse pets, it may be considered discrimination if:
- Your need for a pet is related to a disability and the pet is a certified guide, service, or emotional support animal
- The landlord’s 'no pet' policy treats people with disabilities unfairly, which may violate the BC Human Rights Code
Landlords must accommodate tenants who require a service animal due to a disability, except in very limited circumstances. Always ensure you have documentation from a licensed healthcare professional.
What To Do If You Feel Discriminated Against
If you believe you were denied housing due to a service or support animal required by your disability, you can:
- Talk to the landlord and explain that the animal is not a regular pet but a medical aid
- Provide a letter from your healthcare provider confirming the need for the animal
- File a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal
The BC Human Rights Tribunal addresses complaints about discrimination, including regarding housing and disability.
Forms and Complaint Process
If you decide to make a formal discrimination complaint, you must use the BC Human Rights Tribunal – Complaint Form (Form 1):
- Form Name: Human Rights Complaint Form (Form 1)
- How to Use: Use this form to start a complaint about housing discrimination, such as being denied a rental due to a service or support animal. Attach supporting documents (e.g., refusal email, medical note).
- Find the official Complaint Form and guide here
For regular pet issues not related to disability, your situation will usually be handled through BC’s rental housing system:
- The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) oversees the Residential Tenancy Act and disputes between landlords and tenants
Tenancy Agreements and Pet Policies
Review your agreement carefully before signing. If it allows pets and you paid a pet deposit, you are entitled to keep your pet according to the agreement’s terms. Issues can arise if a landlord tries to change the rules after signing.
To learn how your rights and responsibilities play out after you sign, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
Quick Tips for Tenants with Pets
- Always get all permissions and restrictions in writing
- Understand rules on damage and cleaning; consider how deposits may be used at move-out
- Keep proof of your pet’s training, licensing, and health
Related Rights & Support
For a detailed overview of all BC tenancy rights, including pet policies and dispute processes, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.
To find pet-friendly apartments and rentals, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord evict me in BC for getting a pet if my lease says no pets? If your agreement has a 'no pet' clause and you bring in a pet without permission, your landlord can issue a notice to end your tenancy for breach of contract. However, exceptions exist for guide or service animals required for a disability.
- Is a landlord in BC allowed to ask about pets before approving a rental? Yes, landlords can ask prospective tenants if they have pets and set rules about pets in the tenancy agreement. They must not deny a tenant with a guide or service animal for disability.
- What are my rights if my landlord changes the rules about pets after I move in? If your rental agreement permitted pets and you paid any required deposits, your landlord cannot change this without your consent unless both parties agree in writing.
- How much can landlords charge for pet deposits in BC? Landlords can charge up to half of one month’s rent as a pet damage deposit and cannot demand more than that, regardless of the number of pets.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords in BC can refuse pets but must accommodate service animals for disabilities as required by law
- If you face discrimination for needing a service or support animal, you can file a human rights complaint
- Understand your rights and the terms of your rental agreement before signing
Staying informed and keeping records can help protect your rights as a tenant when pet ownership is an issue.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Information and dispute resolution for renters and landlords
- BC Human Rights Tribunal: File a complaint for discrimination
- Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free legal information on tenancy issues
- Government of Canada: Assistance for low-income renters and persons with disabilities
