As a tenant in British Columbia, you rely on your rental home being safe and properly maintained. But what if your landlord isn’t making repairs? It’s a common question: can you legally withhold rent if repairs aren’t done? This guide explains your rights, steps you can take, and what the law says in BC under the Residential Tenancy Act.

Legal Basics: Rent and Repairs in British Columbia

In BC, tenants have a responsibility to pay rent on time each month, even if there are outstanding repair issues. Withholding rent for repairs is usually not allowed under the Residential Tenancy Act. Doing so can put you at risk of receiving an eviction notice for unpaid rent.

However, you do have options if your landlord isn’t addressing repairs or maintenance:

• Request repairs in writing, keeping a copy for your records
• Apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) to order the landlord to complete repairs
• In some emergency situations, arrange repairs yourself and apply for reimbursement

If you need an overview of landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Repairs Are Landlords Responsible For?

Landlords must keep the rental unit in good repair and meet health, safety, and housing standards. This includes plumbing, heating, and structural maintenance.

Learn more about your rights if there are dangers to your health: Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What Steps Should a Tenant Take if Repairs Are Needed?

Always begin by communicating in writing with your landlord about the needed repairs. Clearly describe the problem, and request action by a reasonable date. Document all your requests and any responses.

If nothing happens, you have further options. The official tribunal for tenancy disputes in BC is the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). They resolve rental disputes and enforce the rules set by the Residential Tenancy Act.^[1]

Emergency Versus Routine Repairs

• Emergency repairs include essential services like heat, hot water, electricity, and damage posing a risk to health or safety.
  • If your landlord does not respond quickly to an emergency, you may arrange the repair and later ask for reimbursement—but you must still notify the landlord first where practical.
• Routine repairs (e.g., leaky faucet, broken window latch) should always be reported to your landlord, who is responsible for addressing them in a reasonable time frame.

For a deeper look, visit Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Can I Deduct Repairs from My Rent?

You generally cannot decide to withhold or deduct rent for repairs unless authorized by an order from the RTB. If you do, this is considered unpaid rent, and your landlord may start the eviction process.

Legal Alternatives to Withholding Rent

• File an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB Form: Dispute Resolution Application):
  • Use this if your landlord refuses to make repairs. With this, the RTB can order the landlord to complete them or authorize you to arrange repairs and deduct costs.
• If you have made an emergency repair:
  Complete an Expense Record and submit it to your landlord for reimbursement. If denied, apply to the RTB for an order for payment.

Action steps and the correct forms are provided in the "How To" section at the end of this article.

Tip: Never unilaterally withhold rent to “force” repairs. Always follow official procedures to protect your rights and avoid eviction.

For a broader overview of your provincial rights, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

For tenants comparing rental options or considering a move, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada with ease on Canada’s leading rental platform.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About Repairs and Rent in BC

1. Can I ever withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
   No. You must pay rent in full and on time. There are official dispute options if repairs aren’t being handled.
2. What do I do if my landlord won’t fix a serious problem?
   Document your request in writing. If there’s no action, apply to the RTB for a Dispute Resolution to force repairs or seek other remedies.
3. Am I allowed to make repairs myself and take the cost off my rent?
   Only for true emergencies, after you notify your landlord and follow the RTB’s rules. Routine repairs must go through the proper dispute process first.
4. Will I be evicted for not paying rent—even if the rental is unsafe?
   Yes, you can be evicted for unpaid rent. The proper path is to apply to the RTB, not to withhold rent.
5. What forms do I need to apply for repair orders in BC?
   Use the online Application for Dispute Resolution to ask the RTB to order repairs or remedies.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

• Do not withhold rent for repairs—use the proper legal process instead
• Document all communications with your landlord about repairs
• For unresolved issues, the RTB can order repairs or permit reimbursement claims

If you ever feel unsure, remember there are resources available to guide you through the process of handling repair issues in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Information, forms, and resolving disputes in British Columbia
• Dial RTB at 1-800-665-8779 (toll-free in BC) for help
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free legal information for tenants
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia: Quick overview of laws, rights, and helpful info for BC renters

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^[1] See official Residential Tenancy Branch: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies
^[2] Read the full Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)

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