Facing Eviction Over a Pet in BC: A Tenant’s Guide

If you’re a tenant in British Columbia and your landlord has threatened eviction because of your pet, you’re not alone. Many renters in BC are unsure about their rights in these situations. Understanding the law, your options, and the right steps to take can help protect your home and your pet. This guide breaks down what you need to know if you’re facing eviction over a pet, with clear action steps and current legal information for BC tenants.

Your Rights and the Law: Pets in Rental Housing

In British Columbia, the main law covering rental relationships is the Residential Tenancy Act¹. Under this law, landlords generally have the right to prohibit pets in a tenancy agreement. If you have a pet in a building or unit with a 'no pets' policy, your landlord can ask you to remove the pet—or, in some cases, may issue an eviction notice.

But you still have Tenant Rights in British Columbia, and there is a process landlords must follow. They cannot force you out immediately or change the locks without legal notice and a hearing process.

When Can a Landlord Evict Over a Pet?

A landlord in BC can start the eviction process for a pet under the following circumstances:

• The written tenancy agreement has a clear 'no pets' clause, and you have one anyway
• Your pet is causing significant damage or disturbing other tenants
• You refused to remove a pet after being given a written warning

However, emotional support animals and certified guide dogs may have exceptions under other laws. If this is your situation, consider speaking with a local tenant support organization for guidance.

Eviction Process: Understanding Notices and Your Options

Evictions for pets typically involve a One Month Notice to End Tenancy (Form RTB-33) in BC. Here's how it works:

• Written notice: The landlord must give you a written eviction notice stating the reason (such as breach of a 'no pets' rule or pet damage).
• 14 days to respond: You have 10 days to dispute the notice (see steps below), or your tenancy will end after one month.

See the official One Month Notice to End Tenancy (RTB-33) and more about when this form applies.

Action Steps If You Receive an Eviction Notice for a Pet

If you receive an eviction notice over a pet, stay calm and follow these practical steps:

• Review your tenancy agreement to check for the pet clause
• Decide if you want to comply (remove the pet) or dispute the eviction
• If you want to dispute, apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch within 10 days
• Gather evidence (photos, vet records, witness statements) that your pet hasn’t caused harm or there’s been no significant breach
• Attend the hearing (often by phone or video)

If you miss the 10-day window, you may lose your right to dispute and must move out by the eviction date.

Official Tribunal: Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)

All tenancy disputes in BC are handled by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). The RTB can decide if the eviction is valid, dismiss it, or set conditions for you (such as rehoming your pet by a certain date).

Dispute Resolution Application (RTB-12)

Form: Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) – Use this form to officially dispute the eviction.
Download the RTB-12 form here.

• Submit online or by mail/fax to the RTB within 10 days of receiving your notice
• Describe why you think the eviction is unfair (for example, the pet is well-behaved, there’s no damage, or the rule isn’t in your agreement)
• You’ll get a hearing date and instructions on how to participate

If You Need to Move: Protecting Your Security Deposit

If you decide to move out, make sure to document the condition of your rental to recover your deposit. Learn more in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Tenant and Landlord Obligations

Both you and your landlord have responsibilities. For a broader look at your rights and duties, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

In summary: Ensure you understand your agreement and always respond in writing if you want to contest a notice. Pet issues are common, but BC law provides a fair process for both sides.

Want to find rentals that welcome your furry friends? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca and enjoy a convenient, map-based search to discover your next home.

FAQ: Tenants Facing Eviction Over Pets in BC

1. Can my landlord evict me for having an unauthorized pet in British Columbia?
   Yes, if your tenancy agreement includes a 'no pets' clause or you breach other pet-related terms, the landlord can issue a One Month Notice to End Tenancy. But you have the right to dispute the eviction with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
2. What should I do if I get an eviction notice because of my pet?
   Review your rental agreement and act quickly. If you want to contest the notice, file an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) with the RTB within 10 days.
3. Are emotional support animals or service animals treated differently?
   Yes, guide or service dogs are protected under other laws. It’s best to seek advice from the RTB or a legal support group if your pet is a service animal.
4. Can I be forced out immediately if I have a pet against the rules?
   No. Landlords must follow the notice process under the Residential Tenancy Act, which gives you the chance for a fair hearing.
5. How can I find rentals that allow pets in BC?
   Try platforms like Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to browse listings that welcome pets.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords can evict for unauthorized pets, but must follow BC’s Residential Tenancy Act notice and dispute process
• You have the right to dispute pet-related evictions; act within 10 days of receiving notice
• Always check your rental agreement and know your rights as a BC tenant

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) - phone, in-person, and online dispute resolution
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – free legal information and support for BC tenants
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia – learn about all your rights and protections as a BC renter
• For official tenancy forms and guides: BC Tenancy Forms

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1. See Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch, Government of British Columbia: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies
3. One Month Notice to End Tenancy (RTB-33): Official PDF
4. Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Official PDF

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