When your landlord decides to sell the property you’re renting in British Columbia, it can be unsettling. Knowing your rights and what to expect is key to protecting your home and planning your next steps. This guide explains what happens if your landlord sells the property, what notice you must be given, and what forms may be involved under British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Act.^[1]

Who Oversees Tenant Rights in British Columbia?

Residential tenancies in BC are overseen by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), which handles disputes, forms, and official processes. Understanding how to access their resources can help you navigate challenges during a property sale.

Does a Sale Automatically End My Tenancy?

The short answer is: no. If your landlord sells the property, your tenancy continues under the same terms and conditions, even after the new owner takes over. The new landlord must uphold your rental agreement. There are specific steps a landlord must follow if they want you to move out because of the sale.

When Can a Landlord End the Tenancy Due to a Sale?

In British Columbia, your landlord may only end your tenancy if:

• A buyer (or close family member) intends to move into the rental unit themselves, and
• The landlord provides proper written notice using the correct official form

For fixed-term leases (unless the agreement explicitly allows for early ending), the tenancy carries on until the end of the lease term. Month-to-month tenancies require a minimum notice period.

What Notice Must I Receive If the Home Is Sold?

If the new buyer or their immediate family wants to move in, you must be served a Notice to End Tenancy. This is a legal requirement and comes with protections for tenants.

Official Form: Notice to End Tenancy – Form RTB-33

• Name: Notice to End Tenancy for Landlord's Use of Property (Form RTB-33)
• When Used: Landlords use this when ending a tenancy because the purchaser (or close family) will move in.
• How You May See It: Your landlord or the new owner must deliver this form to you at least 2 months in advance before the effective end date. View Form RTB-33 (PDF)
• Compensation: You are entitled to 1 month’s rent as compensation if served with this notice.

Always keep copies of notices and communicate in writing when possible. For a deeper understanding of your rights as a tenant after signing an agreement, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Timeline: What to Expect After Notice

• You must receive a minimum of 2 months’ written notice before the tenancy ends.
• Your move-out date must be the last day of a rental period (e.g., end of month).
• You have the right to dispute the notice through the RTB within 15 days of receiving it if you believe it is not valid.

If you do nothing, your tenancy will end on the agreed date. If you choose to move out earlier than the notice period, you still remain eligible for the compensation unless otherwise agreed in writing.

What Happens to My Security Deposit?

When the property is sold, your deposit is held in trust by the landlord until the tenancy ends. On move-out, you should be present for a final inspection and complete the condition inspection report with the landlord or the new owner. If you leave the unit in good condition, your security and pet deposits should be refunded, along with interest. For more guidance, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Your Rights During Viewings and Inspections

During the sale process, the landlord or real estate agent may request access to show the property to potential buyers. They must provide:

• At least 24 hours’ written notice for each showing
• Showings between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. only
• Reasonable frequency of showings

Your right to quiet enjoyment remains intact during this period. If the process becomes disruptive, you can seek help from the RTB.

Key Protections Under the Residential Tenancy Act

• The tenancy does not end just because the property is sold
• If ended for buyer use, you must get at least 2 months’ written notice and 1 month’s rent as compensation
• You have the right to dispute a notice you believe is invalid
• The new owner is bound by the same rules as the previous landlord

Learn more about regional rules at Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

For tenants looking for a new place during or after a sale, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with helpful search tools and updated listings.

FAQ: Selling a Rental Property in British Columbia

1. Can my landlord evict me just because they're selling?
   No. A landlord can only end a tenancy if the purchaser (or their close family) plans to move in, and proper legal steps are followed.
2. What if I want to dispute the notice to end my tenancy?
   You may file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch within 15 days of receiving notice.
3. Do I still get my deposit back if the property is sold?
   Yes, your deposit is protected and should be returned (with interest) if you leave the rental in good condition after a proper final inspection.
4. Can the new owner raise my rent when they take over?
   No, the new landlord must follow the standard rent increase rules laid out in the Act; they can’t raise the rent just because of a sale.
5. How much notice do I get for showings?
   The landlord or agent must give at least 24 hours’ written notice for each showing or inspection.

Conclusion: What Tenants in BC Should Remember

• Your tenancy doesn't end automatically when your landlord sells the property.
• If the new owner or their family wants to move in, you are entitled to proper notice and compensation.
• Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for help or to dispute a notice.

Staying informed ensures you can take timely action and protects your housing rights under BC law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – Information, forms, filing disputes
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Free legal information for tenants in BC: tenants.bc.ca
• For a summary of BC laws and your rights, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – BC Government

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