Top 50 Questions: Leases & Agreements for Tenants in British Columbia

Leases & Agreements British Columbia published: June 26, 2025 Flag of British Columbia
What is a lease or tenancy agreement in BC?
A lease (or tenancy agreement) is a contract between a tenant and landlord outlining the terms for renting a home, as required by BC's Residential Tenancy Act.
Does my lease have to be in writing?
Yes, in BC your landlord is legally required to provide a written tenancy agreement. If not, standard terms apply under the law.
What should be included in a tenancy agreement in BC?
It should include names, address, rent amount, deposit info, start/end dates, and other key terms. Use the RTB-1 Tenancy Agreement Form.
Do I need to pay a security deposit?
Landlords can request up to half a month's rent as a security deposit in BC.
What types of rental agreements are there?
Fixed-term leases (with end dates) and month-to-month tenancies are most common in BC.
Can my landlord change the terms of my lease?
No, lease terms can't be changed unless both you and your landlord agree in writing.
Do verbal agreements count in BC?
Yes, verbal tenancies are legal, but your landlord must still provide a written agreement and required information.
Can I break my lease early in BC?
You can only break a fixed-term lease early if your landlord agrees or for exceptional reasons recognized by law.
What if I want to move out before my lease ends?
You may face penalties unless you negotiate with your landlord or meet legal exceptions, like family violence. Use the RTB-51 Notice for Family Violence if applicable.
How much notice do I have to give to end a month-to-month tenancy?
You must give at least one full month's written notice using the RTB-45 Tenant Notice to End Tenancy.
Can my landlord ask for post-dated cheques?
No, a landlord cannot require post-dated cheques, but you may offer them voluntarily.
What if my lease says something different than the law?
The Residential Tenancy Act overrides any lease term that conflicts with the law.
Can I sublet my apartment?
Only with your landlord’s written consent for fixed-term leases. Month-to-month may have different terms.
What is an assignment of lease?
Assignment is transferring your lease to someone else, with landlord's written permission for fixed-term leases.
What forms do I need to assign or sublet?
Use the RTB-27 Request for Consent to Assign or Sublet.
What information should I get from my landlord?
Get a copy of your signed agreement, landlord's legal name, address, and emergency contacts.
Is a rental increase allowed during my lease?
Not during a fixed-term lease, and not more than once a year for month-to-month—must follow legal limits and notice periods.
What if my landlord wants to add extra charges?
Extra charges must be agreed in the tenancy agreement and must follow the law.
Can I have roommates?
You can, unless your agreement restricts it. Your landlord should be notified.
How do I change my agreement to allow pets?
Both you and your landlord must agree in writing to permit pets or change pet rules.
Is my lease automatically renewed?
Most fixed-term leases turn into month-to-month tenancies unless another agreement is signed.
What happens at the end of a fixed-term lease?
It usually becomes month-to-month unless you move out or sign a new lease.
Do I need my landlord’s permission to paint or alter the unit?
Yes, you need written permission before making changes to the property.
Can my landlord refuse to rent to me for having children?
No, BC law prohibits discrimination against tenants with children.
Can I dispute my lease terms?
Yes, you can file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch if you disagree with your landlord.
Which tribunal governs leases in BC?
The Residential Tenancy Branch oversees rental disputes and agreements.
What law covers leases and agreements in BC?
The Residential Tenancy Act covers all leases and agreements in BC.
What if I signed a lease but haven’t moved in?
Once signed, a lease is legally binding even if you haven't moved in. You may owe rent until the unit is re-rented.
Can my landlord terminate my tenancy without reason?
No, landlords need a valid legal reason under the Residential Tenancy Act to end a tenancy.
Can I be evicted for not signing a new lease?
No, if your fixed-term ends you don’t have to sign a new lease; it will usually become month-to-month.
Can we add another tenant to the lease?
Only if your landlord agrees and provides written consent.
What if I don’t get a copy of my lease?
Request it in writing from your landlord. If not provided, standard lease terms apply.
Does my tenancy end automatically at the expiry date?
It continues month-to-month unless you give proper notice to end it or sign a new agreement.
Can a landlord require me to renew my lease?
No, you cannot be forced to sign a new fixed-term lease in BC.
Can I insist on a fixed-term or month-to-month lease?
Landlords choose what type of agreement to offer, but you can request your preference.
Is email a legal form of communication?
BC law allows for electronic communication if both you and your landlord agree to it in writing.
What if the landlord sells the building?
Your tenancy continues under the same lease terms with the new owner.
Can a landlord ban guests?
No, BC law lets tenants have guests, but they must not disturb others or stay for extended periods without consent.
Can my landlord increase my deposit during my tenancy?
No, security and pet deposits are limited and can’t be increased after you’ve paid them.
Am I responsible for repairs under my lease?
Generally, landlords handle maintenance; you must keep the unit clean and report problems promptly.
Can I refuse to sign an updated tenancy agreement?
Yes, unless the update is required by law. Otherwise, your current agreement continues.
What is a periodic tenancy?
A tenancy with no end date, usually renewing month-to-month, until notice is given.
Can terms be changed when the landlord changes?
No, new landlords must honour existing tenancy agreements under BC law.
Am I required to provide insurance?
Insurance is not required by law, but some landlords may ask for proof in the lease.
Can I be charged a fee for a copy of my lease?
No, landlords must give tenants a free copy of the tenancy agreement.
What happens if both parties want to end the lease early?
Both parties should sign a written mutual agreement to end tenancy using regular written notice.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord breaches the lease?
No, you must pay rent on time. File a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch instead.
How do I dispute a lease or agreement?
Apply for dispute resolution using this Dispute Resolution Application (RTB-26).
Where can I get official tenancy forms?
All official forms are available at the Residential Tenancy Branch website.

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy
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 renters everywhere.

Related Articles