Seasonal responsibilities like snow removal and lawn care often raise questions for tenants renting in British Columbia. Knowing who handles these tasks helps you avoid potential disputes and ensures your rental remains safe and well-maintained. This guide explains how these responsibilities are divided under BC law so you can protect your rights and keep your rental experience smooth.

Who Handles Snow Removal and Lawn Care in BC Rentals?

Under British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Act, snow removal and lawn or garden care are not automatically the tenant's job. Instead, these duties depend on the specific terms of your rental agreement.

• If your written tenancy agreement says you must clear snow or take care of the lawn, you are generally responsible as a tenant.
• If the agreement does not mention these tasks, they remain the landlord’s responsibility by default.

BC’s Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) (official tribunal) enforces these rules and mediates disputes.^[1]

Safety and Compliance: Why Snow Removal is Important

Failure to clear snow from walkways and sidewalks can create slip hazards, which can lead to fines from municipalities and potential injury claims. Local city bylaws often require a property owner (or occupant, based on agreement) to clear snow within set timeframes after snowfall.

What Should Your Tenancy Agreement Include?

The clearest way to assign responsibility is to include it in your tenancy agreement. Here’s what to look for:

• A section outlining “tenant responsibilities” or “landlord responsibilities” for property maintenance
• Specific mention of tasks like “snow removal,” “lawn mowing,” or “gardening.”
• Details about who provides and pays for any necessary equipment or supplies

For new tenants, reviewing these terms before signing is essential. For more moving-in tips, explore Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

What If the Agreement Is Not Clear?

If your rental agreement is silent or unclear, you can clarify the arrangement with your landlord in writing. Verbal agreements can lead to misunderstandings. Consider negotiating to have shared responsibility or to rent with snow removal and lawn care included.

Forms and How to Raise Issues

If your landlord asks you to handle snow removal or lawn care that isn’t covered in your agreement, or if there’s a dispute, you can:

• Request clarification or a written amendment to your agreement
• Document any maintenance issues affecting health and safety, such as dangerously icy walkways
• Apply to the RTB for dispute resolution if an agreement cannot be reached

Residential Tenancy Branch RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution – Use this form to address issues such as disagreements about property maintenance (including snow removal and lawn care) or to resolve conflicts about responsibilities. Download the RTB-12 form. Complete it, submit it online, by mail, or in person at a Service BC office, and pay the required fee. For support, see the RTB's Contact page.

Health, Safety, and Routine Maintenance

Snow, ice, and overgrown grass aren’t just cosmetic issues. They can pose health and safety hazards. Making sure walkways are clear and lawns are maintained helps prevent injuries and legal consequences, both for tenants and landlords. Learn how maintenance – including seasonal care – falls under broader rental obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you suspect a maintenance issue is putting your health or safety at risk, alert your landlord in writing immediately. If the issue isn’t resolved, you may have a right to seek help through the RTB.

When Tenants Are Not Responsible

If your agreement doesn’t assign you the duty, you should not be held responsible for slip-and-fall injuries or city bylaw fines related to snow and ice. In these situations, landlords generally handle these obligations.

For more about tenant rights in your province, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Looking for housing where lawn care and snow removal are included? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and filter by amenities and included services to find your next home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my landlord have to provide a snow shovel or lawn mower?
   Not unless your agreement specifically says so. If you are responsible for snow removal or lawn care, clarify who is providing tools in writing.
2. What if my tenancy agreement says nothing about snow removal?
   Then it is usually the landlord’s responsibility. The landlord must maintain the property unless your lease states otherwise.
3. Can a landlord make me responsible for snow removal after I move in?
   Not without your agreement. A landlord cannot change important terms or add new duties like snow removal unless you both sign a new agreement.
4. What should I do if snow isn’t cleared and it’s dangerous?
   Document the hazard, notify your landlord in writing, and if unresolved, consider applying to the RTB for dispute resolution using the RTB-12 form.
5. Is lawn care usually included in rent in BC?
   This varies. Some rentals include it, while others require tenants to handle it. Always check your agreement.

Key Takeaways

• Responsibility for snow removal and lawn care in BC depends on your rental agreement.
• If your agreement is silent, landlords generally handle these tasks.
• Always clarify duties in writing and consult the RTB if disputes arise.

Understanding your obligations prevents disputes and helps keep your rental safe and compliant with both your agreement and local bylaws.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – For dispute resolution or questions: BC Residential Tenancy Branch
• RTB Forms and Fact Sheets: Official RTB Forms & Guidance
• Tenant Advocacy in BC: Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)
• Find more about your rights at Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. Residential Tenancy Act, Government of British Columbia: Full text of the Residential Tenancy Act
2. BC Residential Tenancy Branch: Contact, Forms, Dispute Resolution
3. Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Information and advocacy resources

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