Do seasonal workers in BC need a written rental agreement?

A written agreement is not mandatory but is highly recommended to clarify terms and assist in resolving disputes.

Can a landlord increase rent in the middle of a seasonal contract?

No, landlords cannot increase rent during a fixed-term agreement. They must give three months’ written notice for any increase.

What can I do if my seasonal housing in BC is unsafe?

Tenants can demand repairs and contact the Residential Tenancy Branch if health or safety conditions aren’t met.

Can I leave a fixed-term seasonal contract early?

Both tenant and landlord are bound by the agreed term unless both consent in writing to an early end. Penalties may apply.

How do I get my security deposit back at the end of my stay?

Ensure the rental is clean and damage-free. Landlords must return deposits within 15 days or provide a written reason for deductions.

Tenant Rights for Seasonal Workers in BC: A Complete Guide

Special Tenancy Situations British Columbia published June 19, 2025

Every year, thousands of seasonal workers arrive in British Columbia to help in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. Understanding your rights as a tenant is crucial, as your situation may differ from traditional rental arrangements. This article provides clear, current information to help seasonal tenants in BC stay safe, informed, and protected while renting.

Understanding Rental Agreements for Seasonal Workers

Seasonal workers often sign short-term leases or rental agreements that may extend only for the duration of a specific job or season. Regardless of the length or formality of your agreement, you hold rights under British Columbia's Residential Tenancy Act¹. If you pay rent and live in a self-contained unit (like an apartment, house, or even specialized worker housing), most tenancy laws apply, unless you are in government-licensed temporary farm worker housing or hotels/hostels (which have specific exemptions).

Key Elements of BC Seasonal Rental Agreements

Written or verbal agreements: Both are valid, but a written agreement provides more protection.
Length of tenancy: Can be week-to-week, month-to-month, or fixed-term (e.g., for a harvest period).
Tenants are entitled to a rental unit that meets health and safety standards.

Deposits and Initial Payments

Landlords may request one or more deposits upon move-in, including a security deposit (up to half a month's rent) and sometimes a pet deposit. Know your rights regarding deposits, including when and how much can be collected. For a deeper explanation, check Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Health, Safety, and Maintenance in Seasonal Accommodations

As a tenant, you have the right to live in a unit that is safe and healthy. All rentals in BC must comply with the Residential Tenancy Regulation, local building codes, and health requirements.

Units must be free from serious hazards, pests, and must have working locks, smoke detectors, and access to basic utilities
Landlords are responsible for repairs (unless the tenant caused the problem)
Tenants should promptly notify landlords of any issues

If you have persistent problems, such as unsafe conditions or unaddressed repairs, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch, which is the official tribunal for BC rental disputes (Residential Tenancy Branch).

For advice on how to maintain a safe living space, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Notice, Eviction, and Ending a Seasonal Tenancy

Tenants and landlords must generally follow BC’s notice rules, even for seasonal arrangements. There are different ways your tenancy might end:

Fixed-term (seasonal) tenancy: The rental ends on the agreed date—no extra notice needed if the agreement states you must move at the end of the term.
Month-to-month/week-to-week tenancy: Landlords must give written notice (usually one to two months, depending on the reason). Tenants must give at least one full month’s notice before their move-out date.
Evictions must comply with legal grounds—reasons include non-payment of rent, causing damage, or landlord’s personal use.

If you receive an eviction notice and believe it is unfair, you can dispute it through the BC Residential Tenancy Branch by filing the appropriate forms (see below).

Relevant Official Forms for BC Seasonal Tenants

Notice to End Tenancy (Form RTB-33): Used by landlords to formally end the tenancy. If you receive one and wish to dispute it, you must apply for dispute resolution within the specified timeframe. See official instructions.
Notice to End Tenancy by Tenant (Form RTB-31): Use this if you wish to end your rental agreement early. Download the official form.
Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-12): If there is a disagreement over deposits, eviction, or repairs, tenants can apply online or by submitting this form. Learn more and apply here.

Example: If your landlord asks you to move out before your contract ends without legal notice, fill out Form RTB-12 as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Seasonal Tenant

Seasonal tenants in BC share similar rights and responsibilities to all BC renters. For a summary of core laws and best practices, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Briefly, you have the right to:

Private enjoyment of your rented space
Fair return of your deposit at move-out (subject to damage or cleaning costs)
Safe, healthy, and well-maintained living conditions
Reasonable notice for any landlord entry (usually 24 hours in writing)

And, you are responsible for:

Paying rent on time and honoring any lease terms
Not causing excessive damage or disturbances
Notifying your landlord promptly of any necessary repairs

For more detail, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Finding and Leaving Seasonal Rentals in BC

If you are searching for comfortable, short-term or seasonal housing in BC, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to access convenient, verified listings for all types of rentals.

When ending your tenancy, give proper notice and complete all necessary move-out tasks. This supports a smooth exit and helps secure your deposit refund.

Frequently Asked Questions for BC Seasonal Tenant Rights

Do seasonal workers in BC need a written rental agreement?
While not required by law, having a written agreement is highly recommended to clarify terms and protect both parties. Verbal agreements are legally binding but harder to prove if there is a dispute.
Can a landlord increase rent in the middle of a seasonal contract?
No, landlords cannot raise the rent during a fixed-term agreement. Rent increases require three months’ written notice and must follow BC guidelines.
What if my seasonal housing is unsafe or poorly maintained?
You have the right to ask for repairs or report ongoing problems to the Residential Tenancy Branch. If the unit violates health or safety codes, you can seek official help.
Can I end my seasonal lease early if I finish work sooner?
In most cases, both parties are bound by the fixed-term lease. Discuss possible early termination with your landlord and, if agreed, put it in writing. Otherwise, penalties may apply.
How do I get my security deposit back after my seasonal tenancy ends?
Ensure the unit is clean and undamaged. After move-out, your landlord must return your deposit within 15 days or provide a written explanation for any deductions.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): BC’s official tribunal for rental disputes, complaint forms, and tenancy information.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free legal information and advocacy for BC tenants.
Ending a Tenancy: BC Government Guide
Residential Tenancy Act (read the BC legislation)