Discrimination in housing remains a serious concern for tenants across British Columbia, especially in shared living and roommate situations. Whether you’re searching for a new rental, signing a lease, or already living in a shared space, knowing your rights and the correct actions to take is essential. This article explains what to do if you face discrimination in housing in BC, including the laws protecting you and the steps to report unfair treatment.

What Counts as Housing Discrimination in BC?

Housing discrimination occurs when someone is treated unfairly based on personal characteristics—known legally as protected grounds. In British Columbia, the BC Human Rights Code protects tenants from discrimination based on:

• Race, colour, ancestry, or place of origin
• Age
• Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression
• Marital or family status
• Physical or mental disability
• Religion or political belief
• Lawful source of income

This includes both direct and indirect actions, such as refusing to rent, setting different rules, or harassment by a landlord or roommate.

Your Legal Rights as a Tenant in British Columbia

Under the Residential Tenancy Act, all renters have legal protections against discrimination. This covers both private rentals and shared housing or roommate situations. For an overview of tenant protections, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Common Scenarios Where Discrimination May Occur

• Being denied a rental due to age or family status
• Restrictions on guests or use of common spaces based on religion or ethnicity
• Eviction notices given because of disability accommodations
• Different rental terms, such as rent amounts, set unfairly for protected characteristics

If you believe you’re facing any of these issues, you have the right to challenge the decision.

How to Respond to Housing Discrimination

If you experience discrimination, it’s important to take prompt, documented action. Here are the recommended steps to ensure your rights are protected:

• Document Everything: Keep written notes, emails, texts, or photos that demonstrate discriminatory treatment.
• Communicate in Writing: Politely address the issue with your landlord or roommate in writing, clearly stating your concern.
• File a Formal Complaint: If the issue continues, submit a complaint to the BC Human Rights Tribunal, which is the official body handling discrimination complaints in housing in British Columbia.

In roommate or shared housing arrangements, discrimination can also arise between tenants—not just from landlords. If your landlord refuses to intervene, you may have additional rights under the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Filing a Human Rights Complaint in BC

If informal steps do not resolve the issue, you have the right to file a formal complaint through the tribunal. Here’s how:

• Complete the BC Human Rights Tribunal Complaint Form (Form 1.1).
• File within one year of the discriminatory action. Late complaints are rarely accepted.
• Access the form and instructions directly from the BC Human Rights Tribunal official forms page.
• You will be asked to describe what happened, provide evidence, and share any communication you’ve had with the other party.

After a complaint is filed, the tribunal will review your case, possibly attempt mediation, or set a hearing.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

• The other party (landlord or roommate) is notified and must respond.
• The tribunal may offer mediation or move the case to a hearing.
• If discrimination is found, possible outcomes can include compensation, rental reinstatement, or orders to stop the discrimination.

Throughout the process, keep all documents and correspondence safe. If you are also dealing with other rental issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for further guidance.

Summing Up: Discrimination and Your Rights

British Columbia provides strong legal protections against discrimination in housing. Understanding both your rights and the appropriate processes can help you address these issues confidently and effectively.

For those searching for a new place, using trusted resources like Canada's best rental listings platform can help you connect with reputable landlords and minimize risk.

FAQ: Discrimination and Housing Rights in BC

1. What types of discrimination are illegal in rentals in BC?
   Discrimination based on race, sex, disability, age, faith, family status, and other grounds listed in the BC Human Rights Code is illegal. Both landlords and other tenants cannot treat you unfairly for these reasons.
2. How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?
   You must file your complaint within one year of the discriminatory act. The BC Human Rights Tribunal rarely accepts late applications.
3. What can I expect after filing a complaint with the tribunal?
   You may be offered mediation. If that fails, a hearing will be scheduled and a decision made. Remedies may include compensation or ordering the discrimination to stop.
4. Can my landlord evict or retaliate because I filed a complaint?
   No. Retaliation is prohibited under the Residential Tenancy Act and the BC Human Rights Code.
5. Where can I get help preparing my complaint?
   Tenant advocacy groups and the BC Human Rights Tribunal's help centre can offer guidance. See the resources section below for contact information.

Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

• Discrimination in housing is against the law in British Columbia
• Always document unfair treatment and try to communicate your concerns in writing
• If issues persist, file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal promptly

For a more detailed overview of tenant responsibilities and legal protection, take a look at Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Human Rights Tribunal – File complaints, find forms, and access guides
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Advocacy, legal information, and tenant helpline
• Residential Tenancy Branch – General tenancy rights, dispute resolution, and rental information
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia – Comprehensive facts about your rights and housing law

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1. BC Human Rights Code, RSBC 1996, c 210 – Full text
2. Residential Tenancy Act, SBC 2002, c 78 – Official legislation
3. BC Human Rights Tribunal – How to file a complaint
4. BC Human Rights Tribunal Complaint Forms – Form and instructions

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