Discrimination can be a serious concern for renters in British Columbia, especially in shared housing or when seeking a roommate. This guide explains how tenants can recognize, prevent, and address discrimination in BC rentals, ensuring that both new and existing tenants understand their rights under the law.

Understanding Discrimination in BC Rental Housing

In British Columbia, it is illegal for landlords—or current roommates acting as landlords—to discriminate against tenants on certain protected grounds. The BC Human Rights Code prohibits discrimination based on:

• Race, colour, ancestry, or place of origin
• Religion
• Physical or mental disability
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
• Marital or family status
• Age (for those 19 and older)
• Lawful source of income

This means you cannot be refused a rental, evicted, or harassed by a landlord or roommate because of these reasons. The Residential Tenancy Branch oversees rental disputes, while the BC Human Rights Tribunal handles discrimination complaints.

Discrimination in Roommates & Shared Housing

Discrimination can sometimes be subtle—for example, preferential treatment during roommate selection, advertisements that exclude certain groups, or unfair rental conditions. In shared housing, it is especially important to understand the difference between personal preference and illegal discrimination. The law does not permit discrimination if a landlord or roommate is selecting a tenant who is not sharing living space (such as their bedroom) with them, but certain exceptions may apply in situations where all living areas are genuinely shared.

Your Rights When Renting with Roommates

• If you are listed on the tenancy agreement, you have the same legal protections as any other tenant in BC.
• If you are a subtenant, your rights may differ, but you are still protected by the Human Rights Code.
• Landlords may not evict or refuse tenancy based on a protected characteristic.

For a full review of your rights and responsibilities in BC housing, be sure to read Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Common Signs of Rental Discrimination

• Rental ads that specify preferences excluding certain groups (e.g., "no families," "working professionals only")
• Denying your application after you disclose a service animal, citing “no pets”
• Being asked for extra deposits or higher rent based on your heritage, family status, or disability (except where lawful, such as for a pet deposit in permitted cases)
• Differential treatment, harassment, or exclusion once you have moved in

Discriminatory practices are illegal and can be challenged even if they happen before you move in. If you are unsure whether a situation is discriminatory, you can seek free advice from the BC Human Rights Clinic or other tenant support services (see resources at the end).

What to Do If You Face Discrimination

If you believe you have been discriminated against in a rental situation in BC, take these practical steps:

• Document everything: Keep copies of messages, advertisements, applications, or conversations.
• Raise the issue in writing: Politely ask your landlord or roommate for clarification and state that discrimination is prohibited under the Human Rights Code.
• Seek advice: Contact the BC Human Rights Clinic or Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) for free support.
• File a complaint: If the situation is not resolved, you can file a formal complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

Filing a Human Rights Complaint: Forms and Process

To make a formal discrimination complaint:

• Form Name: BC Human Rights Tribunal Complaint Form (Form 1)
• When to Use: When you believe you have experienced discrimination under the Human Rights Code in housing.
• Where to Get It: Download from the Tribunal’s official website.
• How to Use: Fill out the form with your details and evidence, then submit online or by mail as instructed on the Tribunal site.

Example: If a landlord refuses your application after you reveal your disability, you could fill out this form with your documentation as soon as possible.

Protecting Yourself When Starting a New Tenancy

To reduce your risk of discrimination or misunderstandings when renting in BC, it’s smart to:

• Read and understand your tenancy agreement thoroughly
• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancy Act
• Keep records of all correspondence
• Request receipts for deposits or payments

For more on your obligations and protections after signing a lease, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Useful Tips for New Tenants

If you’re still looking for a home, consider using rental platforms where landlords must follow strict advertising policies. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find open, diverse, and fair housing opportunities.

Key BC Legislation and Where to Get Help

• Residential Tenancy Act – outlines tenancy rules and protections. See the full legislation here.
• BC Human Rights Code – protects against discrimination in housing. See your rights here.
• Residential Tenancy Branch – handles rental complaints and general disputes (official site).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord ask about my race or religion when I apply for a rental?
   No. In British Columbia, landlords cannot ask about your race, religion, or any other protected characteristic under the Human Rights Code.
2. I was rejected for a rental because I have children. Is this legal?
   No. Family status is a protected ground, and refusing to rent to you because you have children may be considered discrimination. You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
3. Can I be asked for a higher deposit because I have a disability or a service animal?
   No. Landlords cannot charge additional deposits due to disability. They can only request a pet deposit if the service animal does not qualify for exemption under BC law.
4. What happens after I file a human rights complaint?
   The Tribunal reviews your complaint, may invite you to mediation, and will make a decision if mediation does not resolve the issue.
5. Where can I learn more about my general rental rights?
   See Tenant Rights in British Columbia for a comprehensive overview.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Discrimination in BC rental housing is illegal under both the Residential Tenancy Act and Human Rights Code.
• Document all interactions and seek support early if you suspect discriminatory treatment.
• Know your rights, use official forms, and contact the appropriate tribunal for help.

Staying informed and proactive is the best way to protect yourself as a tenant, especially in roommate or shared housing situations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Human Rights Tribunal – File or learn about discrimination complaints
• Residential Tenancy Branch – For rental disputes, information, laws, and forms
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Free legal information for tenants
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia – Up-to-date summary of provincial rights

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1. BC Human Rights Code: Official legislation link
2. Residential Tenancy Act (BC): Official legislation link
3. Residential Tenancy Branch (BC): Official government site
4. BC Human Rights Tribunal: Tribunal complaints page

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