Top 50 Questions About Rent & Deposits for Tenants in British Columbia

Rent & Deposits British Columbia published June 26, 2025 Flag of British Columbia
Who regulates rent and deposits for tenants in BC?
The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) enforces BC's Residential Tenancy Act.
How much can my landlord increase the rent in BC?
For 2024, rent can increase by up to 3.5%, with proper notice. Check current limit.
How much notice is required for a rent increase?
At least 3 full months' written notice is required before the increase takes effect.
What form must my landlord use for a rent increase?
Landlords must use the Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7).
How do I respond if I think my rent increase is illegal?
File a dispute using the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) within 1 year of the increase.
Can my landlord ask for damage deposits?
Yes, up to half a month’s rent. Pet deposits can also be half a month’s rent (if applicable).
When is a deposit due?
Usually when you sign the tenancy agreement or right when you agree to rent the unit.
Should I get a receipt for my deposit?
Yes, always ask for a written receipt for any payment, including deposits.
What is a pet damage deposit?
A deposit to cover potential damage from pets; can't be more than half a month’s rent.
Is my deposit refundable?
Yes, deposits must be returned within 15 days after you move out if there’s no damage or unpaid rent.
Can my landlord keep my deposit without reason?
No, only if you owe unpaid rent or have damaged the unit beyond normal wear and tear.
How do I dispute if my deposit is not returned?
Use the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) through the RTB.
What is normal wear and tear?
It means regular use over time, not intentional or careless damage (e.g., faded paint is normal).
When is rent due in BC?
Usually on the first day of each month, unless otherwise stated in your tenancy agreement.
What happens if I pay rent late?
Your landlord may issue a 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent (Form RTB-30).
Can my landlord ask for more than one month’s rent as a deposit?
No, only half a month for a damage deposit and half a month for a pet deposit if applicable.
How often can rent be increased?
Only once every 12 months.
Do I need to pay a key deposit?
Yes, but only if it’s refundable and not more than the cost of replacing the keys.
Can my landlord increase rent above the set limit?
Only if they receive approval from the RTB through an Application for Additional Rent Increase (RTB-35).
Is rent control in effect in BC?
Yes, the Residential Tenancy Act limits annual rent increases.
Can my security deposit be used for unpaid rent?
Yes, if you owe rent when vacating, the landlord may use the deposit to cover what you owe.
Do I get interest on my deposit?
No, BC law no longer requires interest to be paid on deposits.
Can a landlord require post-dated cheques for rent?
No, it's your choice; landlords cannot require post-dated cheques.
What if my landlord won’t provide a rent receipt?
Landlords must provide a receipt if you pay by cash or request one in writing.
Can rent be increased during a fixed-term lease?
Only if the lease allows rent increases and proper notice is given after 12 months.
Are utilities included in rent?
Only if your tenancy agreement says so. Always check your written agreement.
Is there a rent freeze in BC?
No, the rent freeze ended; standard increases are now allowed under current limits.
Can I use my deposit as last month’s rent?
No, deposits in BC cannot be used as rent unless agreed by the landlord in writing.
Can my landlord ask for a cleaning deposit?
No, only damage and pet deposits are allowed.
Can my landlord increase rent if property taxes rise?
Only by applying for an additional rent increase through the RTB (Form RTB-35), with approval.
I lost my job; do I still have to pay rent?
Yes, tenants are responsible for paying rent regardless of employment status.
Can my landlord demand deposits in cash only?
No, tenants can choose to pay by any negotiable form unless otherwise agreed.
What happens if I accidentally damage the unit?
The cost may be taken from your deposit if repairs go beyond normal wear and tear.
Can a landlord raise rent if the suite is upgraded?
Only with RTB approval via an additional rent increase application (Form RTB-35).
How do I force my landlord to return my deposit?
Apply to the RTB using the RTB-12 dispute form within 2 years of moving out.
What if I forget to do a move-in inspection?
Without a completed move-in inspection, the landlord cannot keep your deposit for damages.
Do I need to request the return of my deposit in writing?
No, landlords must return deposits within 15 days or explain why they are keeping them.
What forms are needed for a move-in inspection?
Use the Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27) at move-in and move-out.
If I break my lease, do I lose my deposit?
Only if there is unpaid rent or damage. Otherwise, the deposit must be returned.
My landlord didn’t do a move-out inspection, what now?
If requested and not conducted, the landlord cannot keep your deposit for damages.
Can my rent be raised because a new owner bought the building?
No, only within the annual legal rent increase guideline.
Can I refuse a rent increase if I didn’t get enough notice?
Yes, if notice wasn't proper, the increase is invalid and rent stays the same.
Can my landlord require a deposit for furniture?
No, only damage and pet deposits are allowed.
Is there a way to challenge rent increases at the RTB?
Yes, use RTB-12 to dispute illegal or excessive rent increases within one year of the increase.
What if my landlord keeps my deposit for false reasons?
You can apply for dispute resolution through the RTB and may get your deposit back plus damages.
What if I cannot pay the full damage deposit?
You must pay the full deposit as per the agreement before moving in; partial payments aren't allowed unless agreed by the landlord.
Are deposit rules different for furnished/unfurnished units?
No, the same laws apply regardless of furnishing.
Can my landlord deduct from my deposit for unpaid utilities?
Yes, if you have unpaid utility bills listed in your tenancy agreement.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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