Top 50 Safety & Security Tenant Questions in BC

Safety & Security British Columbia published June 26, 2025 Flag of British Columbia
What are my rights if I feel unsafe in my rental unit?
You have a right to a safe and secure home under the Residential Tenancy Act. Contact your landlord immediately and document all safety concerns.
Who is responsible for fixing broken locks or doors?
Your landlord must maintain locks and ensure doors are secure. Notify them in writing if repairs are needed.
Can my landlord enter my unit without permission?
No, except in an emergency or with proper written notice (at least 24 hours). See Section 29 of the Residential Tenancy Act.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering?
24 hours written notice, stating the reason and time of entry. Entry is allowed between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Are smoke alarms mandatory in my rental unit?
Yes, landlords must install and maintain smoke alarms. Tenants must not disable them.
Who replaces batteries in smoke or carbon monoxide detectors?
Tenants typically replace batteries unless the tenancy agreement says otherwise. Notify your landlord if the detector is faulty.
What can I do if I feel threatened by another tenant or neighbour?
Report the issue to your landlord and call the police if you are in immediate danger.
Can I change the locks myself?
Not without the landlord’s written consent, unless you are escaping family violence. See Section 24(2) of the Residential Tenancy Act.
What should I do if my building’s security system is broken?
Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. They are responsible for repairs.
Are landlords allowed security cameras?
Cameras in common areas are allowed, but not inside your rented unit. Signs must notify tenants of camera use.
Can a landlord install cameras at my front door?
Only in common areas or entrances, never inside your unit. They must notify tenants about surveillance.
What do I do if I feel harassed or stalked by someone in my building?
Inform your landlord, document the incidents, and contact police if necessary.
Can I request extra keys for my unit?
Yes, but your landlord may charge for extra keys. Always request in writing.
What if my landlord won’t fix a broken window or door?
Give written notice. If no action is taken, you can apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Is the landlord responsible for building security?
Yes, landlords must take reasonable steps to provide a safe building and common areas.
What if there is mold or poor air quality in my unit?
Inform your landlord in writing. They must address health and safety concerns as required by law.
Can I get out of my lease if my safety is at risk?
Possibly. You may apply for early lease termination if staying endangers your safety. Use Form RTB-34: Notice of Early End of Tenancy – Family Violence or Long-term Care.
What form do I use to request repairs?
No specific government form is required, but make your written request clear and keep a copy. You can use email or letter.
What if my landlord ignores my repair requests?
You can apply for dispute resolution using Form RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution.
What is the Residential Tenancy Branch?
The Residential Tenancy Branch handles tenant and landlord disputes in BC. Visit their website.
Where can I find the Residential Tenancy Act?
The Act is available at BC Laws: Residential Tenancy Act.
Am I allowed to use my own security devices?
You must get landlord’s permission for changes like new security cameras or doorbell cameras.
Can my landlord give out my personal information or keys to others?
No, landlords must protect your privacy and cannot give keys or personal information to others without your consent.
What should I do during a fire or emergency?
Follow building safety procedures and evacuate immediately. Inform your landlord after you are safe.
Who is responsible for pest control (like bedbugs or rats)?
The landlord is responsible for pest removal in most cases. Notify them immediately in writing.
What if the building’s front entrance is always left unlocked?
Alert your landlord, as they must maintain common area security for all tenants.
Can a landlord restrict visitors to my unit for safety reasons?
Landlords cannot restrict your visitors unless there are reasonable grounds involving safety or legal orders.
What if another tenant threatens me or damages my property?
Report to your landlord and the police, and document everything. Landlords may issue warnings or evictions as needed.
Who pays for window bars or extra security measures?
If you want additional measures, you usually pay. Landlord approval is required in writing.
Are fire extinguishers legally required?
This depends on municipal bylaws, not provincial law. Inquire with your local fire department.
What can I do about broken outdoor lighting or dark hallways?
Report in writing to your landlord. They are responsible for common area maintenance and safety.
What counts as an emergency for landlord entry?
Fire, flood, gas leaks, or situations threatening safety or property are emergencies permitting immediate entry.
How do I file a safety complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch?
Use Form RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution to start your complaint.
Can my landlord charge me for repairs due to break-ins?
No, unless you caused the damage through negligence or intentional acts.
Do I have to let pest control or repair people into my unit?
Yes, if your landlord has given proper notice, unless it’s an emergency.
Am I responsible for snow and ice removal outside my unit?
The landlord handles this for most multi-unit buildings. For houses, your tenancy agreement should state who is responsible.
Where do I report unsafe rental conditions?
First, notify your landlord in writing. If unresolved, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch or your city’s bylaw office.
What if a crime was committed on the property?
Report to the police and your landlord. Document the incident for your safety records.
Can I refuse landlord entry if I feel unsafe?
If proper notice is given, you must allow entry. If you fear immediate harm, contact authorities first.
Can a landlord evict me for “being unsafe”?
Only if you seriously endanger others or the property and proper legal process is followed.
Is my landlord responsible for providing emergency exits?
Yes, by law all rental buildings must have safe, accessible emergency exits.
What do I do if my heating stopped in winter?
Notify your landlord immediately in writing. They must restore heat as soon as possible.
Can I change my own window coverings for privacy and security?
Yes, unless your lease says otherwise. Revert to original at move-out if required.
What happens if another tenant breaks a security rule?
Report to your landlord. They must address rule violations and protect all tenants’ safety.
How do I know if my building meets fire code safety?
Contact your local fire department or city building inspector to inquire about inspections or reports.
My landlord won’t provide me with all keys – what can I do?
Request keys in writing. If the landlord refuses, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for guidance.
Are children’s safety requirements different?
Landlords must still meet general safety standards. For additional childproofing, check with your landlord first.
Can I withhold rent due to safety issues?
No. Instead, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch if safety is not addressed after written notice.
How can I get proof that I reported a safety issue?
Send repair or safety requests in writing, and keep copies or confirmations for your records.

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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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