Top 50 Questions on Discrimination & Accessibility for Tenants in British Columbia

Discrimination & Accessibility British Columbia published June 26, 2025 Flag of British Columbia
What laws protect tenants from discrimination in BC?
The BC Human Rights Code and the Residential Tenancy Act protect tenants from discrimination.
What types of discrimination are illegal for landlords in BC?
It's illegal to discriminate based on race, gender, age, disability, family status, sexual orientation, religion, or source of income.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
No, refusing to rent to families with children is discrimination under the Human Rights Code.
Is it legal for a landlord to ask about my nationality or immigration status?
No, landlords cannot refuse you or question you about nationality or citizenship except to confirm legal residency for rent agreements.
Can a landlord increase rent or evict a tenant due to disability?
No, it's illegal to evict or treat someone unfairly because of a disability.
What do I do if my landlord won't allow a service animal?
You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal as denying a service animal is discrimination.
Can my landlord ban emotional support animals?
Not if you have a legitimate medical need. You may need to provide documentation.
How do I file a discrimination complaint as a tenant?
File with the BC Human Rights Tribunal by submitting their complaint form.
What is the BC Human Rights Tribunal?
It's the official board that handles discrimination complaints, including those by tenants.
Can a landlord refuse to install accessibility features?
Landlords must accommodate tenants with disabilities to the point of undue hardship.
What if my landlord says renovations for accessibility are too expensive?
They must prove undue hardship. Otherwise, they should accommodate reasonable modifications.
Who pays for accessibility modifications?
It depends. Tenants can ask landlords to pay; landlords may only refuse for undue hardship.
Can I make minor accessibility changes without permission?
No, you must request permission, but landlords should not unreasonably refuse.
Are rental ads allowed to say 'no pets' if I have a service animal?
No, service animals are not considered pets under the law and cannot be refused.
Can a landlord set rules that limit my disability aids?
No, landlords cannot unreasonably restrict disability-related devices or aids.
Does the law cover both physical and mental disabilities?
Yes, protections apply to mental and physical disabilities equally.
What forms do I need to request accommodation?
No specific tenancy form; usually a written request or medical note is needed.
Where can I find the Human Rights Complaint Form?
Access the form at BC Human Rights Tribunal: Complaint Form.
How long does the Human Rights Tribunal process take?
Processing times vary but can take several months to over a year.
Can I be evicted for requesting disability accommodations?
No, it is unlawful to evict or retaliate against tenants for requesting accommodations.
Are rental buildings required to be fully accessible?
No, but landlords must accommodate reasonable accessibility needs unless it's undue hardship.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me based on my source of income?
No, source of lawful income is a protected ground under the Human Rights Code.
What counts as 'undue hardship'?
Significant difficulty or expense for landlords; each case is unique and decided by the Tribunal.
Do I have to disclose my disability to my landlord?
No, but you may need to share relevant details to support an accommodation request.
Can a landlord raise rent or change the lease because of my disability?
No, this would be considered discriminatory treatment.
What if another tenant objects to my service animal?
Your rights to accommodation and service animals outweigh such objections unless there's a severe allergy or conflict, which must be resolved case by case.
Who enforces anti-discrimination laws for tenants?
The BC Human Rights Tribunal handles discrimination claims; tenancy disputes go to the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Where can I get help with accessibility in my rental?
Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for advice, or file a human rights complaint.
What if my landlord refuses ramps or accessible upgrades?
Request in writing. If denied, contact the Human Rights Tribunal for support.
Can my landlord limit visitors because of my disability?
No, restrictions that target tenants with disabilities are not allowed.
Can a landlord ask for extra deposit because I have a disability aid?
Only for pets not covered as service animals; otherwise, extra deposits are not allowed for disability-related reasons.
What if my building's common areas aren't accessible?
Ask your landlord for reasonable modifications or file a complaint if refused.
Is discrimination allowed if a landlord has safety concerns?
No, safety concerns can't justify discrimination unless clearly proven as undue hardship.
Do human rights apply to all rental housing?
Yes, virtually all rental housing except some private living arrangements are covered.
Can a landlord check my criminal record before renting?
It's not covered under the Human Rights Code, but related discrimination may be challenged.
Are there rules for accessible parking at my rental?
Landlords should provide accessible parking when needed for tenants with disabilities.
What if my disability needs change during my tenancy?
You can make new accommodation requests at any time; landlords must consider them.
Can a landlord require proof for a support animal?
Landlords can request supporting documentation but not detailed medical histories.
Can my landlord prevent me from using mobility devices?
No, restricting mobility devices is discriminatory.
What happens if a landlord is found guilty of discrimination?
The Tribunal may order them to stop the discrimination and, sometimes, compensation for damages.
Is retaliation for complaining about discrimination allowed?
No, retaliating against a tenant for asserting their rights is itself illegal.
What should I do if I face discrimination by other tenants?
Tell your landlord. If they do not act, you may file a human rights complaint against them too.
Does the Residential Tenancy Branch handle discrimination?
No, discrimination cases go to the BC Human Rights Tribunal; tenancy issues go to the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Where can I read the Residential Tenancy Act?
Read it on the BC government website: Residential Tenancy Act.
Can a landlord ask about my religion or beliefs?
No, asking or making housing decisions based on religion is illegal discrimination.
How do I request accessible upgrades in writing?
Describe your needs, explain how it will help, attach any supporting medical information, and keep a copy.
Are building managers trained about accessibility or human rights?
Not always, but landlords are still responsible for following the law.
Can I be denied housing because I get government assistance?
No, source of lawful income discrimination is illegal in BC.
Does the Human Rights Tribunal offer legal help?
They provide guidance but not full legal representation. Legal clinics may help tenants file complaints.
Can discrimination happen during eviction or an application?
Yes, discrimination laws apply at all stages from application, tenancy, to eviction.
Is age discrimination illegal in BC rental housing?
Yes, except in specifically designated seniors' buildings or government-approved exemptions.

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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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