BC Tenant Safety & Security: Key Rights and Responsibilities

Feeling secure at home is a fundamental part of renting in British Columbia. Tenants across BC are protected by strong laws that uphold their right to live in a safe, well-maintained, and secure rental property. This guide explains your safety and security rights, outlines landlord obligations, and offers practical advice and official resources for tenants.

Understanding Your Right to a Safe and Secure Rental Home

The Residential Tenancy Act guarantees tenants in British Columbia the right to safety and security of their person and property^[1]. This means your landlord must ensure your rental unit is maintained, secure, and free from hazards.

• Working locks on doors and windows are required by law
• Fire and carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and maintained
• The building structure and common areas must be safe and in good repair
• Pest infestations and mold must be addressed quickly

If you have concerns about your health or safety, you are encouraged to address them as soon as possible. For more on specific hazards, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Landlord Obligations for Safety and Security

Your landlord is legally required to:

• Repair locks, doors, windows, and other security features as needed
• Provide safe exits, emergency lighting, and fire alarms where required
• Respond to urgent repair requests quickly—especially if there is an immediate risk
• Give you proper notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies

To better understand these responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Repair Requests and Reporting Unsafe Conditions

If you notice something unsafe—such as a broken lock, exposed wiring, or water leaks—report it to your landlord in writing right away.

• Keep copies of your communications and any photos
• If the problem is not fixed promptly, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for help

Tip: For urgent or emergency situations, contact your landlord immediately by phone. Follow up in writing as soon as possible.

Essential Forms for Tenants

The following official forms can help you protect your rights and document your situation:

• Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27): Used at move-in and move-out. This document records the condition of your unit and is crucial if you later claim for damages or if you want your deposit fully returned. Get the official form here.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Submit this form if your landlord refuses to fix safety or security issues. You can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for repairs or compensation. View and download the application.

For more details about documenting your unit’s condition, visit the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Responding to Emergencies and Repairs

Some issues, like loss of heat in winter or a broken front door lock, are considered emergency repairs. Landlords must perform these repairs promptly, even outside regular hours.

If your landlord does not respond, you may be able to arrange the repairs yourself and deduct reasonable costs from your rent—but you must follow the correct legal steps. This process is outlined in the BC government emergency repairs guide.

How the Residential Tenancy Branch Can Help

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the tribunal that oversees rental disputes in BC. They enforce the Residential Tenancy Act and help tenants resolve issues regarding safety, security, or repairs. Most official complaints, such as unresolved repair requests, are submitted to the RTB using the Dispute Resolution form.

Other Important Resources

For a comprehensive overview of your rights and provincial contact details, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

To search for a new secure home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

1. What are common safety and security issues tenants face in BC? Common issues include non-working locks, broken doors or windows, malfunctioning fire alarms, pest infestations, and unsafe common areas. Address these by notifying your landlord in writing and contacting the Residential Tenancy Branch if needed.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before entering my unit? Generally, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental, except in cases of emergency (such as fire or flooding).
3. Can I change my locks to improve security? You can only change locks with the landlord’s permission (or by an order of the Residential Tenancy Branch). Never change locks without following the proper process.
4. What can I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs? Send a detailed written request first. If the landlord doesn’t respond, you may apply for dispute resolution with the RTB. In emergencies, you may arrange repairs yourself but only after giving notice and following legal guidelines.
5. Am I responsible for damages caused by break-ins or vandalism? You are not responsible for damages due to crimes committed by others, as long as you were not at fault. Report any incidents to your landlord and the police promptly.

1. How do I file a dispute for unresolved safety concerns? Download and complete the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) from the BC government’s website. Describe the issue, attach documentation, and submit it online or in person to the Residential Tenancy Branch. You will be assigned a hearing date to present your case.
2. How can I document unsafe conditions in my rental? Take clear photos, keep written records of your communications with the landlord, and note dates of problems and requests. Use the Condition Inspection Report to record move-in and move-out conditions.
3. What steps should I follow for emergency repairs if my landlord is unavailable? Attempt to contact your landlord first. If they do not respond and repairs are urgent (e.g., heating outage, broken locks), you may arrange the repair yourself. Give written notice to your landlord about the problem and planned repair. Retain all receipts and deduct costs from rent as a last resort, following government guidelines.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – Official BC government resource
• Contact RTB for advice or to start a dispute resolution
• BC Housing – Housing services and tenant resources
• For details on deposits, repairs, and security, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. British Columbia Residential Tenancy Act
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)
3. Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27)
4. Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)

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