If you are a tenant or renter in British Columbia living in shared housing and facing domestic violence, you have options and rights to protect your safety and housing. This page explains immediate safety actions, how to document incidents, options to end or change a tenancy, and where to get legal and emergency help. The guidance uses clear tenant-focused language so you can act quickly — whether that means calling emergency services, contacting the Residential Tenancy Branch, or applying for dispute resolution. Keep records, know which official forms may apply, and learn how to involve local supports for survivors while preserving your housing security in BC.
Your immediate safety and legal priorities
First, if you are in immediate danger call 9-1-1. If you need urgent shelter or crisis support, contact local victim services or a domestic violence helpline. After ensuring safety, document incidents with dated notes, photos, and saved messages. Do not destroy evidence; keep copies in a secure place or with a trusted friend. Consider changing locks or asking the landlord for safety measures if the building policies and lease allow.
How the Residential Tenancy Branch and legislation apply
The official body that handles tenancy disputes in BC is the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB).[1] The governing statute is the Residential Tenancy Act, which outlines tenant and landlord rights in British Columbia including grounds and processes for ending tenancies and applying for dispute resolution.[2] If a shared-house situation becomes unsafe, the RTB can hear applications about compensation, ending tenancies, locks, or unlawful entry. You can apply for dispute resolution to request remedies or enforcement.
Practical steps to take (document, notify, apply)
- Call 9-1-1 if you or someone else is at risk and contact local victim services for immediate help.
- Document incidents: keep dated notes, photos, messages, and witness names as evidence.
- Serve or file notices and forms when required, and keep copies of everything you submit.
- Request reasonable safety measures from the landlord, such as lock changes or restricted entry permissions.
- Plan a safe move or temporary accommodation if staying is not safe; prioritize safety over belongings.
Official forms and when to use them
Several RTB forms and processes may apply. Key official items include:
- Application for dispute resolution — used when you want the RTB to resolve a problem such as requesting compensation, ending a tenancy, or orders for locks or access; file this when other attempts to resolve issues have not succeeded.[3]
- Ending a tenancy resources and any required notice forms — use these when you decide to end a tenancy early because of safety concerns; follow RTB guidance on notice periods and documentation.
Working with landlords and roommates
Approach the landlord with clear requests for safety measures; keep communications written where possible. If a roommate is the alleged perpetrator and you are on the same tenancy agreement, the RTB cannot simply remove a co-tenant without a hearing or agreement — you can request dispute resolution or seek police and civil protection orders to address behaviour affecting safety and enjoyment of the rental unit. If you are not the named tenant, ask about your options and possible temporary arrangements.
When to get legal help and support services
Consider contacting a legal clinic, tenant advisory service, or community legal aid if you need help understanding forms or preparing for a hearing. Shelters, victim services, and advocacy groups can help with safety planning, temporary housing, and support through legal steps.
FAQ
- Can I end my tenancy early if I am a victim of domestic violence?
- Yes — you may have options to end a tenancy early or to ask the RTB for remedies if safety is compromised. Follow RTB guidance and file the necessary notices or an Application for dispute resolution to formalize your request.[3]
- Will I lose my security deposit if I leave early for safety reasons?
- Not necessarily; outcomes depend on lease terms and RTB rulings. If you leave because of domestic violence, document why and include evidence when you apply for dispute resolution so the branch can consider your circumstances.
- Can a landlord change locks to protect me?
- Landlords may be able to change locks to improve safety, but they must follow legal notice and key-return rules. Discuss options with your landlord and note any agreement in writing.
How-To
- Call emergency services if you are in immediate danger and contact local victim services for shelter and crisis support.
- Document every incident with dates, photos, and witness names and store copies off-site or online.
- File an Application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch and attach your evidence.
- Request reasonable safety measures from your landlord in writing and keep a copy of the request.
- Plan a safe exit if needed: pack essentials, secure important documents, and use a trusted contact or shelter.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Branch - Residential tenancies
- BC Victim Services
- BC Government - Ending a tenancy
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