What laws protect BC tenants from discrimination?

BC tenants are protected by the Human Rights Code and Residential Tenancy Act, which make discrimination in rental housing illegal.

How do I file a complaint if my landlord denies disability accommodations?

You can file a complaint through the BC Human Rights Tribunal and/or apply for dispute resolution with the RTB using the RTB-12 form.

Can my landlord refuse to let me have a service animal?

No, landlords in BC cannot refuse a service or guide animal for tenants with a disability, regardless of a 'no pets' policy.

What should I do if I feel I’ve been unfairly evicted based on discrimination?

Document all details and submit an RTB-12 form to the Residential Tenancy Branch, and consider also filing a complaint to the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

Where can I get more guidance on tenant and landlord rights in my province?

The Tenant Rights in British Columbia fact page offers comprehensive information for tenants and landlords in BC.

Legal Help for Discrimination & Accessibility in BC Rentals

Discrimination & Accessibility British Columbia published July 01, 2025

Facing discrimination or accessibility problems as a renter in British Columbia can feel overwhelming, but you have strong legal rights and support available. The Residential Tenancy Act and human rights laws protect tenants from unfair treatment because of disability, race, family status, and more. This article explains your rights, how to seek help, and how to file a dispute if you face discrimination or accessibility barriers in your rental home.

What Counts as Discrimination or Accessibility Issues?

Discrimination in housing occurs when a landlord treats you differently based on personal characteristics protected under the law (such as disability, race, religion, family status, gender identity, or age). Accessibility issues often involve a landlord refusing to allow necessary modifications for disabilities or failing to accommodate a tenant’s needs.

Refusing to rent to someone with a disability
Not allowing guide or service animals
Refusing reasonable renovations like ramps or bathroom handles
Setting different rules for families with children
Evicting a tenant after they ask for accommodations

Your Legal Rights as a Tenant in BC

In British Columbia, tenants are protected by both the Residential Tenancy Act^[1] and the BC Human Rights Code^[2]. These laws ensure you can live free from discrimination and enjoy your home equally, regardless of ability or other protected grounds. Landlords must offer reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship (severe financial or safety risk).

When to Seek Legal Support

If your landlord:

Refuses to address accessibility needs
Denies your application due to personal characteristics
Imposes unfair rules or conditions on your tenancy
Retaliates after you request accommodations

It's time to explore legal action or file a complaint. Early documentation and clear communication can be crucial.

How to Get Legal Support for Discrimination & Accessibility Disputes

There are two main paths for getting legal help:

Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Handles tenancy disputes—like repairs, evictions, or rental agreements. They can sometimes assist when discrimination affects housing conditions or services.
BC Human Rights Tribunal: Resolves complaints about housing discrimination covered by the Human Rights Code.

Tenants may use one or both options depending on the situation. For example, if a landlord evicts you after you ask for wheelchair access, you can:

Apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) for wrongful eviction
File a complaint to the BC Human Rights Tribunal for discrimination

Key Official Forms for Tenants in BC

RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution
Use this form to claim that your rights were violated (for example, if a landlord denied a service animal or failed to provide accessible features). Download from the BC government.
Practical Example: Yasmin asks permission to install handrails for her disability, but the landlord says no. She completes the RTB-12 to start a tenancy dispute.
BC Human Rights Complaint Form (no number)
Use this online form to file a discrimination claim directly to the BC Human Rights Tribunal. Start the process online.
Practical Example: Jordan is denied a rental because of his Indigenous status. He uses this form to submit a complaint for housing discrimination.

Keep copies of all communication and documentation, including letters, texts, or emails with your landlord.

Tactics to Build a Strong Case

Document every incident—dates, what happened, who was involved
Collect witness statements if available
Save medical notes or support letters if accommodations are needed
Communicate requests in writing and keep records

If you’re unsure where to start, contact a tenant advocacy group—they can help clarify your next steps and refer you to legal professionals familiar with Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Common Discrimination & Accessibility Issues Faced by Tenants

Refusal to install ramps or visual fire alarms
Charges for accessibility modifications (usually not allowed)
Eviction or harassment after requesting accommodations
Advertising that excludes certain groups (e.g., "No kids")

Discrimination and accessibility disputes are among the most Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them in BC rentals. Early action and knowledge of your rights are your best defense.

Where to Get More Information

Detailed rental rights: Tenant Rights in British Columbia
See the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) for forms, guides, and support
Formal discrimination complaints: BC Human Rights Tribunal

If you’re looking to move after a dispute or want accessible housing options, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

What laws protect BC tenants from discrimination?
Tenants are protected by the BC Human Rights Code and Residential Tenancy Act. These laws make it illegal for landlords to discriminate on protected grounds.
How do I file a complaint if my landlord denies disability accommodations?
You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal and also apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch using the RTB-12 form if your tenancy is affected.
Can my landlord refuse to let me have a service animal?
No, landlords cannot refuse service or guide animals for tenants with disabilities, even in "no pets" buildings, as per BC Human Rights law.
What should I do if I feel I’ve been unfairly evicted based on discrimination?
Document everything and submit an RTB-12 form to the Residential Tenancy Branch, and consider filing a separate complaint to the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
Where can I get more guidance on tenant and landlord rights in my province?
Start with Tenant Rights in British Columbia for comprehensive local information.

How do I file a discrimination complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal?
Visit the Tribunal’s website, complete their online complaint form with details (dates, what happened, evidence), and submit. They may contact you for more information and will tell you the next steps after review.
How can I apply for dispute resolution at the Residential Tenancy Branch?
Download the RTB-12 form, describe your issue, include evidence (emails, photos, medical notes), and submit it in person, by mail, or online with the required fee. You’ll get a hearing date to present your case.
How can I request an accessibility modification in my rental?
Put your request in writing to your landlord with a doctor’s note or explanation if needed. If refused, keep documentation and consider legal action via RTB or the Human Rights Tribunal.
How to document discrimination or accessibility issues for a complaint?
Record every incident with dates, keep emails/texts, collect witness statements, and save medical or support letters. Organized documentation will strengthen your case.

Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

BC tenants have strong protections from discrimination and can request reasonable accessibility accommodations.
Multiple agencies and legal forms (like the RTB-12 and Human Rights Complaint Form) are available to help resolve disputes.
Careful documentation, clear communication, and prompt action make a big difference in getting a fair result.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) — forms, guides, dispute resolution, phone support: 1-800-665-8779
BC Human Rights Tribunal — file a discrimination complaint or get legal info: 604-775-2000
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) — free legal education and support for tenants
Full overview of local tenancy protections: Tenant Rights in British Columbia

^[1] Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
^[2] Human Rights Code (British Columbia)