Top 50 Roommates & Shared Housing Questions in BC

Does the Residential Tenancy Act apply to roommate situations in BC?
It may apply if each tenant has a separate agreement with the landlord. Most roommate agreements are not covered unless all names are on the lease.
What is a roommate agreement?
It's a contract between roommates about rent, bills, chores, and behaviour. It’s not enforced by the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB).
Who is responsible for rent if one roommate doesn’t pay?
All tenants listed on the lease are jointly responsible. If not, only the person with the contract is liable to the landlord.
Can the landlord evict me if my roommate breaks the rules?
Yes, if you share one tenancy agreement, everyone may be affected by a notice of eviction.
Can I add or remove a roommate without landlord approval?
You need landlord approval to add a roommate to the lease. Removing a roommate may need a new tenancy agreement.
What official forms are used when roommates move out?
Use the RTB-16 ‘Mutual Agreement to End Tenancy’ if all tenants agree to end the tenancy. Download RTB-16.
Do I need a signed lease to have tenant rights?
Rights may apply even without a written lease, but roommate issues may fall outside the RTB’s jurisdiction.
Are verbal agreements between roommates legally binding?
Yes, but they can be harder to prove or enforce than written agreements.
If my roommate damages the unit, am I responsible?
If you are both on the lease, likely yes. The landlord can claim damages from any or all leaseholders.
What happens to the security deposit if one roommate moves out?
The deposit is returned to all tenants named on the agreement at the end of the tenancy, not to individuals who leave early.
Can I sublet my room in a shared rental?
Only with landlord’s written consent and if your tenancy agreement allows it.
How do I terminate my part of a joint tenancy?
You should serve proper notice, but the tenancy typically continues for other roommates unless all agree to end it.
Can I be evicted solely because of my roommate’s actions?
Yes, if you share a tenancy agreement, all tenants can be affected by one person’s violation.
What can I do if my roommate refuses to move out after I gave notice?
Roommate disputes are not handled by the RTB. You may need legal advice or court action.
Am I responsible for my roommate’s guests?
Yes, as a tenant, you are responsible for your guests’ behaviour in the unit.
Who handles roommate disputes in BC?
The RTB usually does not intervene. These disputes are resolved privately or through the courts.
Can I lock my bedroom if I have roommates?
If agreed upon by all parties and not prohibited in the lease, yes, but do not change locks without landlord permission.
Can my landlord raise the rent if one roommate moves out?
No, not during a fixed tenancy. For details, review the Residential Tenancy Branch guidelines.
What are my privacy rights in shared housing?
You have a right to privacy in your unit, but not usually in common areas with other tenants.
Who is responsible for shared bills?
It depends on your roommate agreement. The landlord is only concerned with rent and utilities set in your lease.
Can I be forced to pay my roommate’s share of damage?
If your names are on the lease, the landlord can require all tenants to pay for damage.
How do I add a new roommate to the lease?
You need the landlord’s written permission and may need to sign a new agreement.
What happens if my roommate won’t pay their share of utilities?
This is a private dispute. The Residential Tenancy Branch usually does not intervene.
Can my roommate kick me out?
Only the landlord can legally evict a tenant. Roommates cannot end your tenancy.
Do I have to split rent evenly with roommates?
Only if you agreed to this in your roommate agreement. The landlord is not involved in how you split the rent.
Can the landlord restrict the number of roommates?
Yes, the lease may set a maximum number of occupants. Exceeding this may risk eviction.
What’s the difference between a roommate and a subtenant?
Roommates share the lease agreement with you. Subtenants rent from you, not the landlord.
Can I get my security deposit back if I leave before the lease ends?
Only when the tenancy as a whole ends. Otherwise, arrange repayment with roommates.
Am I responsible for cleaning shared spaces?
Yes, all tenants are responsible for common areas, unless your roommate agreement says otherwise.
Can my landlord refuse to let me add a roommate?
Yes, the landlord can say no if it violates the lease or overcrowding rules.
What form do I use to move out of my shared rental?
Use the RTB-26 ‘Notice to End Tenancy’ if you are ending the tenancy. Download RTB-26.
How much notice do I need to give to move out?
Usually at least one full month's notice in writing, before the day rent is due.
Can my landlord evict me for my roommate having too many guests?
Yes, if frequent guests violate the lease or disturb others, eviction is possible.
Is it legal to rent just one room in a unit?
Yes, if the landlord approves. You must still follow the lease and tenancy rules.
What should be included in a roommate agreement?
Rent split, bill payments, chores, guests, rules, and dispute resolution steps.
Can the landlord enter my bedroom in a shared rental?
Only with proper notice (24 hours) unless it’s an emergency.
Does the RTB handle issues with roommate violence or threats?
No, contact police and seek support. Legal action may be needed.
Can I get an extra key for new roommates?
You need landlord approval for extra keys.
Can I advertise for roommates without landlord permission?
You must check your lease and get landlord approval before adding tenants.
Does my landlord need to approve all new roommates?
Yes, unless stated otherwise in your rental agreement.
Who do I contact for tenancy problems in BC?
The Residential Tenancy Branch. Visit the RTB.
Which law covers shared housing and roommates in BC?
The Residential Tenancy Act. Read the Act.
Can my roommate end the whole tenancy?
Any one tenant giving notice may end the entire tenancy if all are on the same lease.
How can I settle disputes with a roommate?
Try talking, use a written agreement, or consider mediation or small claims court.
Can I be evicted just for fighting with a roommate?
If the conflict disturbs neighbours or violates the lease, eviction is possible.
Can only one tenant be responsible for a lease?
Yes. In that case, others are lodgers or subtenants, not tenants under the Act.
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.