If you are searching for a rental in British Columbia and have children, you may wonder if a landlord can legally refuse your application or terminate your tenancy simply because of your family’s composition. In this guide, we break down your rights, what BC law says, and how to respond if you face discrimination as a tenant with children.
Family Status Discrimination: What BC Law Says
In British Columbia, it is illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to someone because they have children. This type of discrimination is known as discrimination on the basis of "family status" under the British Columbia Human Rights Code[1].
- Landlords cannot state in rental ads that children are not allowed.
- They cannot reject your application solely because your family includes children – this applies to apartments, houses, and shared accommodations.
- This protection covers advertising, application, tenancy, and renewal stages.
British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Act[2] governs rental relationships and reinforces your right to rent regardless of family status. If you’re interested in a deeper dive on tenant and landlord rights specific to the province, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.
Renting in Shared Housing and with Roommates
Rooming houses, suites, and shared accommodations must also comply with the Human Rights Code. Even if you’re looking for only a room in a home, the property owner or primary tenant cannot refuse you solely because you have children, unless they meet narrow exceptions (such as sharing a kitchen or bathroom and truly living communally with the tenant).
What If You Experience Discrimination?
If you believe you’ve been turned down for a rental because you have children, you have the right to take action in British Columbia:
- Document the situation (screenshots of ads, written communications, refusal messages).
- Contact the landlord or property manager in writing to clarify their reasoning.
- You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal, which oversees discrimination complaints.
It’s helpful to know your general obligations and those of your landlord. Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained covers both tenant and landlord duties under the law.
Related Forms and Official Actions
No special rental tribunal form exists for discrimination issues—these are handled by the BC Human Rights Tribunal, not through residential tenancy forms. Here’s how the process works:
- Human Rights Complaint Form: Used to start a discrimination case.
Download and file the form directly here: BC Human Rights Tribunal: Make a Complaint.
Example: If you answered an ad for a two-bedroom apartment and the landlord replied, "Sorry, no kids," you could file a Human Rights Complaint.
What Tenants Should Do When Moving Into a New Rental
After finding a place, ensure your rights are respected throughout your tenancy. For tips on settling in, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for practical steps covering move-in checklists and setting up utilities.
You’re protected from discrimination, but issues may arise around quiet enjoyment, repairs, or family-related complaints. For more on resolving everyday tenant issues, consult Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
Landlords in British Columbia cannot legally refuse your application or ask you to leave because you have children. If this happens, keep records and consider filing a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
For more information about finding rental properties across the country—including family-friendly listings—Browse apartments for rent in Canada and discover options that suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a landlord in BC evict me because my children are noisy?
Landlords cannot evict you simply for having children, but they may raise concerns if repeated noise disrupts others' enjoyment. Tenants have a duty to prevent unreasonable disturbances. Try to address issues early with your landlord. - What can I do if a rental ad says “no kids”?
This is prohibited under the BC Human Rights Code. You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal. - Does this protection apply to all types of rentals?
Yes, with very few exceptions (such as shared accommodation where the landlord also lives in the same space and shares bathroom/kitchen facilities). - What if I believe I was rejected for other reasons, but suspect it's really about my children?
If you suspect discrimination, gather evidence and consider bringing your concerns to the Human Rights Tribunal. They can help investigate if family status discrimination occurred. - Where can I learn more about my overall tenant rights in BC?
Visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia for an overview of tenancy protection laws and resources.
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- In BC, it is illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to you or evict you just because you have children. This protection covers all stages of tenancy.
- Family status discrimination complaints go through the BC Human Rights Tribunal, not the Residential Tenancy Branch.
- Document all communication and seek support if you face potential discrimination.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- BC Human Rights Tribunal: Main body for discrimination complaints (file a complaint)
- BC Residential Tenancy Branch: For all tenancy agreements, evictions, and general queries
- For advocacy, advice, or support: Contact Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)
- Review your basic protections and rules at Tenant Rights in British Columbia
- British Columbia Human Rights Code, RSBC 1996, c 210. See the Human Rights Code
- Residential Tenancy Act, SBC 2002, c 78. Read the Residential Tenancy Act
