Being a renter in British Columbia means you have privacy rights and protections when a landlord or their agent enters your rental without proper notice. This guide explains, in clear language, what counts as unauthorized entry, how to document incidents, and the steps BC tenants can take to file a complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch. It covers the documents and evidence you should collect, how to try informal resolution first, what to expect when submitting the official Application for dispute resolution, and how to prepare for a hearing. Use these practical tips to protect your privacy, seek compensation or orders to stop repeated entries, and understand the legislation and forms that apply in British Columbia.
What is unauthorized entry?
Unauthorized entry is when a landlord or their agent enters your rental unit without the required notice or without your consent under the Residential Tenancy Act. If your landlord enters without proper notice, refuses to give a reason, or comes back repeatedly after you object, that can qualify as unauthorized entry and may be grounds for a complaint to the Residential Tenancy Branch.[1]
How to document an incident
Good records make a strong complaint. Note dates, times, who entered, how they gained access, and whether they had notice or permission. Collect photos or video of unlocked doors or evidence of entry, keep copies of tenant-landlord messages, and record witness names if neighbours saw the entry.
- Detailed log of each entry with dates, times and descriptions.
- Any written notice you received or the lack of a notice.
- Photos or video showing the entry or damage.
- Contact details for witnesses or neighbours who observed the entry.
- A copy of your signed rental agreement or lease.
Try informal resolution first
Before filing, consider asking the landlord to stop entering without notice. A clear, written request can be effective and is often required by the RTB to show you tried to resolve the issue. If you want guidance on how to raise the concern, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide for practical wording and next steps.
When and how to file with the Residential Tenancy Branch
If informal efforts fail, file an Application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch to request orders such as an end to the unlawful entry, compensation, or other remedies. The RTB provides online information about dispute resolution and the application process; read that official guidance before you submit.[2]
- Complete the Application for dispute resolution carefully and attach your evidence.
- Be aware of any filing fee or payment instructions listed on the RTB site.
- Upload or prepare to bring copies of logs, photos, messages, and witness details.
- Attend the hearing (phone or in-person) and present your evidence clearly and calmly.
What the legislation says
The Residential Tenancy Act sets out tenants' rights and the RTB's powers; reading the Act helps you understand what orders the RTB can make. For questions about whether a specific entry was permitted, refer to the legislation and the RTB guidance when preparing your application.[3]
Related pages and resources
For context on your broader rights in BC, you may find the provincial overview for tenants helpful, and our practical guide to dealing with tenancy issues can explain related problems such as repairs or rent disputes. If you need to confirm local listings or address details while documenting occupancy, Find Vancouver apartments for rent offers searchable listings across the region. You can also review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in British Columbia to learn more about provincial protections.
FAQ
- What exactly counts as unauthorized entry?
- Unauthorized entry is any entry by a landlord or their agent without the notice required by law, without a lawful reason, or after the tenant explicitly refuses permission.
- What can the Residential Tenancy Branch order?
- The RTB can order compensation, require the landlord to stop the behaviour, and make other remedies it considers appropriate under the Residential Tenancy Act.
- How do I start the complaint process?
- Document the entries, try to resolve the issue directly in writing, then submit an Application for dispute resolution to the RTB with your evidence attached.
How-To
- Gather all evidence: logs, photos, messages and witness contacts.
- Send a written request to the landlord asking them to stop and keep a copy of that message.
- Complete the Application for dispute resolution and attach your evidence.
- Submit the application through the RTB process and follow any payment steps shown.
- Prepare for and attend the hearing, present your evidence, and follow the RTB decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Branch — Government of British Columbia
- Application for dispute resolution and dispute resolution info
- Residential Tenancy Act — BC Laws
