Moving into or out of a rental home in British Columbia often reveals repair issues that can become sources of disagreement between tenants and landlords. Understanding your rights, obligations, and available solutions under BC tenancy law is key to resolving these disputes quickly and fairly. This guide explains common repair disputes, BC’s legal process, and how tenants can protect themselves.

Common Repair Disputes in BC Rentals

Repair disagreements between tenants and landlords in British Columbia often involve issues such as:

• Leaking plumbing, broken appliances, or heating failures
• Mould, pests, or safety hazards
• Unresolved damage discovered during move-in or move-out
• Disputes over who is responsible for a repair
• Delays or refusals to complete necessary maintenance

Under BC's Residential Tenancy Act, both landlords and tenants have clearly defined responsibilities for repairs and maintenance^[1]. Landlords are required to keep the rental unit in a state of repair that complies with health, safety, and housing standards. Tenants, in turn, must not deliberately or negligently cause damage.

Who Is Responsible for Repairs?

Generally, landlords handle repairs for:

• Structural issues and essential services (e.g., heating, plumbing)
• Appliances provided with the unit
• Pest infestations and health hazards

Tenants are responsible for repairing or paying for any damage they cause beyond normal wear and tear.

For more details, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Steps to Resolve Repair Disputes

• Document the problem: Take photos and keep copies of correspondence.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Clearly describe the issue and request repair within a reasonable timeframe (usually in writing, so you have proof).
• Allow access: Cooperate with reasonable requests for access so repairs can be completed.
• If repairs aren’t made, begin dispute resolution: If the landlord does not respond, you can apply to BC’s Residential Tenancy Branch.

Before major disputes arise, consider requesting an inspection. The Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants explains how a move-in inspection can prevent future disagreements.

Filing an Application for Dispute Resolution

The official process for repair disputes in BC is managed by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). If informal solutions don’t work, tenants can file the following form:

• Form: Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12)
• When to Use: File this form when your landlord refuses or delays required repairs after you've given notice and time to fix the issue.
• Where to Get It: Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12) PDF

Example: If your heat isn’t working and your landlord does not fix it after written notice, you can file RTB–12 with supporting evidence (copies of emails, photos) to request an order for repairs.

Emergency Repairs

Some repairs are considered emergencies (e.g., no heat in winter, major leaks). For urgent situations, tenants may arrange repairs themselves if they follow BC’s rules. Read Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for a full explanation.

How Repairs Connect to Deposits and Moving Out

Repairs left unresolved at move-out might affect your security deposit. Conducting a move-in and move-out inspection helps document the unit's condition and avoid disputes. For guidance, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

If you need to find a new rental after an unresolved dispute, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for your next move.

For a broader overview on your provincial rights and obligations, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

FAQ: Repair Disputes in BC Rentals

1. Who pays for repairs in a BC rental?
   Landlords must pay for most repairs required to maintain health and safety standards. Tenants cover the cost if they or their guests cause damage beyond normal wear and tear.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t fix something important?
   Provide written notice describing the issue and allow your landlord a reasonable time to respond. If they still don’t act, you can file an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12) with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
3. How quickly must emergency repairs be made?
   Emergency repairs such as loss of heat, major leaks, or unsafe conditions should be done as soon as possible, and tenants can sometimes arrange repairs and ask for reimbursement if the landlord doesn’t respond promptly.
4. Can unresolved repairs affect my security deposit at move-out?
   Yes. If you’re held responsible for damage, your landlord may claim part of your deposit. Proper inspection reports can help prevent disputes about responsibility.
5. What forms do I need to start a repair dispute in BC?
   For unresolved repairs, submit the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12) to the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Know your repair rights under BC’s Residential Tenancy Act
• Always document repairs and communicate issues in writing
• If needed, file an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB–12) with the RTB
• Thorough inspections help prevent deposit and damage disputes when moving in or out

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – Official forms, dispute resolution, and support
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Tenant advocacy, free legal information, and support (BC only)
• Residential Tenancy Legislation in BC – Laws and updates
• For health, fire, or safety issues, contact your local municipality or public health authority

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)
3. Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)

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