Safety & Security Checklist for British Columbia Tenants

Whether you're moving into a new apartment or you've rented the same suite for years, feeling safe and secure in your British Columbia home is essential. Knowing your rights, responsibilities, and practical safety steps under BC law empowers tenants to protect themselves and their belongings. This comprehensive checklist will help you navigate the key safety and security issues relevant to rental units in British Columbia.

Understanding Safety & Security Requirements in BC Rentals

Under the Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)^[1], both landlords and tenants share responsibilities for keeping rental properties safe and secure. Key areas to focus on:

• Locks and doors: All external doors must have functional locks, and only tenants and authorized people should have keys.
• Windows and entry points: Windows that open should have secure latches. Report any broken latches promptly.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: Alarms must be installed and operational. Test them monthly and never tamper with or disable alarms.
• Fire escapes and exits: Hallways and exits should remain clear at all times. Emergency exit routes must be accessible and marked.
• Building maintenance: Staircases, balconies, and walkways must be structurally sound and free of hazards.

Both tenants and landlords are responsible for reporting and fixing safety issues. For a fuller list of relevant health and safety matters, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Before You Move In: Inspection & Forms

Start your tenancy on the right foot by documenting the unit’s condition. BC law requires an inspection report at move-in and move-out:

Condition Inspection Report (Form RTB-27)

• When to use it: Required at both the start and end of every tenancy.
• Why it matters: Provides official documentation of existing damage or safety issues.
• Action steps: Carefully inspect each room, note any concerns, and have both landlord and tenant sign the form.
• Download the official Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27)

For a practical walkthrough, see our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Mid-Tenancy: Ongoing Security Checklist

• Test all alarms (smoke, carbon monoxide) monthly.
• Check locks and window latches regularly for signs of tampering or damage.
• Report lights that are burned out or safety issues in common areas immediately.
• Keep emergency contact numbers (fire, police, property manager) handy.
• Never block hallways or fire exits with bikes, boxes, or personal items.

Who to Contact for Repairs?

If urgent repairs or safety hazards arise and your landlord doesn't act promptly, you may need to request repairs formally or file for dispute resolution with BC's Residential Tenancy Branch.

• Online Repairs Request: Notify your landlord of issues in writing. If they do not fix urgent problems, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for assistance.
• Form RTB-12 (Application for Dispute Resolution): Use if you need to address unaddressed safety issues formally.
  Download Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)

When Moving Out: Security Steps

Before ending your tenancy, ensure all doors and windows are secure, alarms are working, and the premises are left in good condition.

• Complete a move-out inspection with your landlord. Document any damages or unresolved safety issues.
• Return all keys and remote fobs to your landlord.
• Request confirmation (in writing) that all locks are now rekeyed if you've lost a key during your tenancy.

To help smooth your transition, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and straight-forward British Columbia moving tips.

What Does the Law Say About Tenant Safety?

• The Residential Tenancy Act^[1] and Residential Tenancy Branch policies require landlords to keep properties safe and in good repair.
• Tenants are required to report hazards and not intentionally damage or disable safety features (e.g., smoke alarms or locks).
• Failure to address safety issues may result in dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

For a broad summary of tenants’ legal rights, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Don’t Forget: Personal and Community Safety

• Get to know your neighbours and your building’s fire escape plan.
• Never share keys or entry codes with strangers.
• Be aware of your building’s emergency protocols and scheduled fire drills.

Looking for a new safe home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with map tools, photos, and trusted listings.

1. Do tenants in BC have to pay for lock changes?
   Unless it is to address a security or safety concern (like a lost or stolen key), lock changes usually require landlord approval and, unless otherwise specified, are typically paid for by the tenant. However, if your safety is at risk or locks are malfunctioning, the landlord is responsible for repairs or upgrades.
2. What if I find pests or mold in my rental?
   Notify your landlord right away and keep written records. Landlords are generally responsible for treating pest infestations or hazardous mold. For more guidance, check Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
3. Who can I call if my landlord ignores urgent safety repairs?
   If safety issues put you at risk and your landlord doesn’t act after being notified, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch using Form RTB-12 (Application for Dispute Resolution).
4. Is tenant insurance required for safety?
   Tenant insurance is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended to protect your personal belongings, liability, and for peace of mind.
5. Are security cameras allowed in my rental?
   Landlords can use security cameras only in common areas (like lobbies or parking), never inside your private unit, and must respect privacy laws.

1. How do I request an urgent repair for a safety issue in BC?
   1. Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible, clearly describing the issue.
   2. If there’s no response within a reasonable time, complete and submit a Form RTB-12 (Application for Dispute Resolution) to the Residential Tenancy Branch.
   3. Attach copies of your communication and (if possible) photos documenting the safety hazard.
2. How to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?
   Press the "test" button monthly. Change batteries annually (or as manufacturer recommends). If defective, inform your landlord right away for replacement or repair.
3. How do I document safety issues for my records?
   Take clear photos or videos, save all emails/letters to your landlord, and note dates/times. This helps if you later need to show evidence to the Residential Tenancy Branch.
4. How can I make my unit more secure without violating my lease?
   You may add extra door/window alarms or portable locks, as long as they don't cause damage or violate your rental agreement. Always get written permission for permanent changes.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Both BC landlords and tenants play a key role in safety and security—always report hazards promptly.
• Complete the required move-in and move-out condition inspection forms to document safety issues.
• Know your recourse: The Residential Tenancy Branch can help if safety repairs aren't completed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – for forms, legal info, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) – phone and email support for tenant questions
• For more on your rights, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. [1] See BC’s Residential Tenancy Act

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