Can You Seal or Remove an Eviction Record in BC? Tenant Options Explained

Worried about your eviction history following a difficult tenancy in British Columbia? Many tenants wonder if it’s possible to seal, remove, or erase an eviction record so it doesn’t hurt their chances of renting a new home. While BC tenancy law protects many tenant rights, eviction records can create real challenges. This guide explains what an eviction record is in British Columbia, whether it can be sealed, and what practical steps you can take next.

Understanding Eviction Records in British Columbia

When a landlord lawfully evicts a tenant in BC, this action typically comes through an official Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) order or a Notice to End Tenancy. If the case goes to a hearing, the decision is recorded by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), which is the provincial tribunal handling rental disputes. If there are unpaid rent or damages, this may also result in a record with credit bureaus and, in rare cases, public court records.

Records that might affect future rental applications can include:

• RTB dispute resolution decisions (these are public but not formally posted in background check databases)
• Credit report entries from court judgements or collections
• References provided by previous landlords mentioning tenancy problems or evictions

Can Eviction Records Be Sealed in BC?

In British Columbia, there is currently no legal process to seal, expunge, or erase an eviction record from official RTB records or from your credit file once a lawful decision has been made. BC’s Residential Tenancy Act does not provide a sealing option. RTB decisions themselves may be subject to limited privacy (as tenants and landlords are usually named by initials), but credit report impacts or collection records remain until paid or expire.

However, there are still important actions you can take to minimize the impact on future rentals.

How Long Do Eviction-Related Records Last?

• Residential Tenancy Branch decisions: These are kept for several years and can be obtained for reference but are not publicly searchable like criminal records.
• Credit bureau entries: If you have a money judgement against you, it may remain on your credit report for 6–7 years, according to BC privacy laws.
• Landlord references: Previous landlords may share tenancy history, including whether you were evicted.

Landlords in BC often check these sources when screening new tenants. It's helpful to understand what can—and can't—be removed.

Actions Tenants Can Take After an Eviction

While you cannot seal an official eviction record, these practical steps may help you rebuild rental history and minimize negative effects:

• Resolve any outstanding debts: If there were unpaid rent or damages, pay these off. Request written proof from your landlord or the agency that the debt is settled. You can request a credit bureau update after resolution.
• Request a review or appeal: If you believe an RTB decision was unfair, you may file an Application for Review Consideration (Form RTB-12). This must be done quickly after the initial decision—strict deadlines apply.
• Build positive references: After eviction, a new, stable tenancy with good references can help future landlords look past previous problems.
• Provide context in applications: Be honest with future landlords. Explain the eviction and show what you learned or changed.
• Order your own credit report: Check for housing-related judgments and address any errors with the credit bureau.
• Pursue dispute resolution if facts are incorrect: If your landlord has provided false information, you may use RTB dispute resolution processes (apply here).

Relevant RTB Forms and How to Use Them

Tenants in BC have access to forms like:

• Application for Review Consideration (Form RTB-12): Use if you believe there was a significant error in your dispute resolution hearing outcome. File immediately after the decision, following the instructions provided on the official RTB forms page.
• RTB Dispute Resolution Application: For issues involving incorrect landlord claims or violation of tenant rights. See the RTB’s Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-26) for details.

Always consult the RTB website for the most current forms and instructions.

What BC Law Says About Evictions and Tenant Privacy

The Residential Tenancy Act governs tenancy matters in BC. The Act does not provide a mechanism to expunge an eviction but does regulate how landlord references and privacy are handled. The RTB is the tribunal responsible for hearing disputes and managing records (learn more here).

Practical Tips: Renting Again After Eviction

If you are trying to move after an eviction, see guides such as Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit. When looking for new rentals, using reputable platforms can expand your options. For example, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme welcomes all renters to search for their next home—regardless of past history. Be ready to discuss previous situations honestly with future landlords, and show your efforts to resolve problems.

For a full overview of your rights—including how eviction records are handled—see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I erase an eviction from my record in BC?
   No, there is no legal process to erase an eviction record from RTB or credit files in British Columbia. However, you can explain your situation and show positive changes to future landlords.
2. How long will an eviction-related debt stay on my credit report in BC?
   Eviction-related debts, such as unpaid rent ordered by the RTB or courts, usually stay on your credit report for 6–7 years.
3. Who can see my eviction record in British Columbia?
   Future landlords can ask for references or check your credit report. RTB decisions are not publicly listed by name but may be accessed with some details.
4. Can I dispute my eviction if there was a mistake?
   Yes. Use the Application for Review Consideration (Form RTB-12) promptly after your hearing, or apply for dispute resolution if facts are incorrect.
5. Are there ways to improve my rental chances after eviction?
   Yes: settle any debts, gather positive references, be transparent in applications, and use search platforms welcoming all tenants.

Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

• Eviction records in British Columbia cannot be sealed or erased, but their impact can be managed.
• Paying off debts, appealing decisions, and collecting strong references help improve your rental future.
• The RTB is the key resource for tenant disputes and understanding eviction outcomes.

In summary, while eviction records persist, with informed steps, you can still rebuild as a tenant in BC.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch: Phone, email, and location information.
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Advocacy, education, and legal information for BC tenants.
• File RTB applications and forms online: Including dispute resolution and reviews.
• Consumer Protection BC: Debt settlement and credit reporting help.
• For detailed rights: Tenant Rights in British Columbia

---

1. Residential Tenancy Branch – BC Government
2. Residential Tenancy Act
3. RTB Forms – BC Government
4. TRAC – Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre
5. Consumer Protection BC – Credit Reporting

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy