Secure Building Access and Intercom Rules for BC Tenants

Feeling safe in your rental home is crucial. In British Columbia, tenants have the right to reasonably secure building access and working intercom systems if these are part of their rental property. Understanding your rights—and your landlord’s obligations—can help you address common concerns related to security, entry doors, and visitor access policies.

Secure Building Access: What It Means for BC Tenants

Secure building access generally refers to controlled entry, locked main doors, or secure lobbies that require residents or authorized users to let guests in, often using buzzers or intercoms. In multi-unit apartment buildings, these systems are vital for safety and peace of mind.

Do Landlords Have to Provide Secure Building Access?

While not every BC rental is required by law to have an intercom or buzz-in system, landlords must ensure doors, windows, and entryways are secure and that renters can safely access their homes. If a security system or intercom was present at the beginning of your tenancy or is included in your lease, the landlord must keep it in working condition. This responsibility is part of general health and safety obligations under Section 32 of BC’s Residential Tenancy Act.^[1]

• Entrances and exits must be secure from unauthorized entry.
• Broken locks, damaged doors, or malfunctioning intercoms must be repaired promptly.
• Tenants should report security or access problems immediately.

For more about health and building safety, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Who Enforces Security and Intercom Standards?

The Residential Tenancy Branch of BC is the official tribunal that handles landlord-tenant disputes, including concerns about building security or intercom systems. If informal negotiations do not resolve the issue, tenants can file a complaint using the branch's procedures.

What If My Landlord Won’t Fix the Intercom or Security Door?

If your landlord fails to repair a security system or intercom, and you believe it affects your safety, you have the right to request repairs. Persistent failure may allow you to apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• Request for Repairs: There’s no official numbered form, but tenants should provide written notice to the landlord, clearly stating the issue and repairs needed. Use email or a written letter, date it, and keep a copy.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): If the landlord doesn’t respond or refuses to repair essential security or intercom systems, tenants may file this application with the Residential Tenancy Branch. Official RTB-12 Form and Instructions.

Example: If your apartment’s buzzer won’t work for weeks after written requests to your landlord, consider using the RTB-12 Application to have the Residential Tenancy Branch order repairs and/or compensation.

What Are Tenant and Landlord Obligations?

Both parties have important duties regarding building security:

• Landlord: Maintain all provided security features and ensure reasonable safety for tenants.
• Tenant: Avoid damaging security equipment and promptly report any issues or malfunctions.

See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more about shared duties in a rental home.

Staying Safe and Addressing Problems

If you have concerns about a broken front door, a malfunctioning intercom, or unauthorized visitors getting in, act quickly. Your safety is a priority, and the law supports your right to proper building security. If the landlord does not resolve your concern, dispute resolution is available through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

To learn more about tenant rights in BC—including security, maintenance, and more—review Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

For those searching or comparing options, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and find safe, secure rentals that fit your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Security in BC Rentals

1. Do all apartment buildings in BC have to use intercom systems? Most multi-unit dwellings built in recent decades have intercoms or buzzers as a security standard, but the law requires landlords to maintain any system that’s part of the tenancy—not to install new ones in older buildings unless it’s required for repairs or health and safety.
2. What if my landlord doesn’t fix a broken lock or security door? Request the repair in writing. If they don’t act promptly, you can apply for dispute resolution via the Residential Tenancy Branch using Form RTB-12.
3. Can a landlord keep a master key to secure entry doors? Yes, but landlords cannot use the key to enter your unit without following proper notice rules except for emergencies.
4. Who do I contact if I feel unsafe due to building access issues? Direct your concerns to your landlord first, then consult the Residential Tenancy Branch for support and possible dispute resolution.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Secure access and intercom systems must be maintained if they were present at move-in or specified in your agreement.
• Promptly notify your landlord in writing about any security or intercom problems.
• Apply for dispute resolution if repairs are not handled and your safety is at risk.

Remember, knowledge is power in protecting your right to a safe rental home in British Columbia.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Guidance, dispute resolution, and legislation.
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free legal information for tenants.
• Contact the RTB: Phone, email, and support information.

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1. Residential Tenancy Act, Section 32 – Landlord and tenant obligations
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (BC) Official Website

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