As a tenant in British Columbia, you have the right to a rental home that is properly maintained. But what can you do if your landlord completes repairs in your unit, but the work is substandard or unsafe? This article explains your rights under BC's Residential Tenancy Act, what constitutes a poorly done repair, and step-by-step guidance to help tenants resolve the issue.

When Are Repairs “Poorly Done” in a BC Rental?

A repair is considered poorly done if the work completed by your landlord fails to fix the problem, leaves your unit in an unsafe or unusable condition, or does not meet reasonable standards expected for habitability. Examples include:

• Leaking plumbing that is only patched temporarily but not fully fixed
• Electrical work creating new hazards or failing safety codes
• Repairs that leave behind damage, mess, or ongoing health risks

If repairs create new health or safety issues, you can learn more about landlord and tenant responsibility for these hazards in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Your Rights and the Law in BC

Under the Residential Tenancy Act of British Columbia, landlords are required to make sure the rental property:

• Meets health, safety, and housing standards under law
• Is in good repair, suitable for occupation, and properly maintained during your tenancy

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the official government authority that oversees rental tenancies, including disputes about repairs in British Columbia¹.

What Should Tenants Do If Repairs Are Done Poorly?

If a landlord’s repairs were incomplete, shoddy, or dangerous, taking action quickly is important. Here’s an overview of effective steps to resolve the problem:

Step 1: Document the Problem

• Take clear photos or videos of the repair area, before and after the work
• Write down the dates work was done and exactly what went wrong
• Keep copies of any communication with your landlord (texts, emails, letters)

Step 2: Communicate In Writing

• Send your landlord a dated, written notice describing the problem with the repair
• Be specific about how the work is unsatisfactory (e.g., still leaking, unsafe, not up to code)
• Request that repairs be redone properly by a professional or to an acceptable standard

If your landlord does not respond or refuses to fix the problem, keeping detailed records will help support your case if you need to involve the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Step 3: Apply for Dispute Resolution Through the RTB

If informal requests do not resolve the issue, tenants may apply to the RTB for dispute resolution. You can ask for:

• An order requiring your landlord to do repairs
• Compensation if you suffered losses (e.g., damaged belongings, higher energy bills)
• Permission to do repairs yourself and deduct reasonable costs from rent (called a "repairs and deduction" order; must be approved first)

The most common official form to use is:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12):
  - When to use: If your landlord won’t redo poor repairs or the work is unsafe.
  - How to use: Complete the form and submit it online or by mail to the RTB.
  - Official RTB-12 Form

You may also wish to request compensation for affected living conditions. For urgent health and safety concerns, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

What About Ongoing Health or Pest Issues After Repairs?

If a poor repair leads to new issues such as mold, pests, or unsafe air, additional tenant rights may apply—see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions for more details.

Can You Withhold Rent If Repairs Are Poorly Done?

In BC, you cannot legally withhold rent because repairs were done badly. If you do, your landlord might serve you an eviction notice. Always follow the proper legal procedures described above instead.

Keep the Big Picture in Mind

Poor repair work isn’t just about inconvenience—it can affect comfort, health, and your legal protection as a tenant. For a complete overview of your rights as a BC renter, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What counts as a poorly done repair in a BC rental?
   A repair is poorly done if it fails to fix the problem, creates new hazards, or does not meet health and safety standards.
2. Can I hire someone to fix the repair and deduct from my rent?
   Only if you first apply for and receive an order from the RTB granting you permission to do so. Never make deductions without written approval.
3. How long should I wait before taking further action?
   If the problem is urgent (such as a health or safety risk), act immediately. Otherwise, give your landlord a reasonable chance to respond in writing within a week or two.
4. Is my landlord responsible for repairs if damage was caused by poor maintenance over time?
   Yes, the landlord must ensure the property remains in good repair even for gradual or maintenance-related issues.
5. Where do I apply to resolve a dispute about repairs in BC?
   Applications go to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB).

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Document poor repairs and communicate clearly with your landlord in writing
• If issues are not corrected, apply to the RTB using the proper forms
• Do not withhold rent—follow legal steps to protect your rights

Staying proactive and informed is your best defense as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): File forms, get tenant info and dispute advice
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Tenant advocacy, legal education, and direct support
• For an overview of major tenant and landlord rules, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. Residential Tenancy Branch — Government of BC
2. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia) - Full Legislation

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