If you’re a tenant in British Columbia and facing a rent increase you can’t afford, it’s important to know what happens if you don’t pay the new rent and what your options are. This guide walks you through your rights, responsibilities, official forms to know, and steps to protect your tenancy under BC law.

How Rent Increases Work in British Columbia

Landlords in BC can only raise rent by the legal maximum set each year by the provincial government. They must use an approved form and give you at least three full months’ written notice before any increase takes effect. For more on rent increases, visit the official BC government guidelines.

• Annual rent increases are capped by law
• Landlords must give three months' written notice
• Only one rent increase is allowed every 12 months per unit

If you believe your landlord did not follow the proper process or exceeded the legal limit, see the page Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the New Rent?

If you do not pay the increased rent amount starting from the date shown on the notice, your landlord can issue a 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent or Utilities (Form RTB-30). This is a legal eviction notice. Not paying your new rent on time—even if you’re only paying the old amount—can lead to eviction.

• You must pay the full, increased rent on the due date after the notice period ends
• If you pay only the old amount, the unpaid balance is still considered arrears
• Your landlord may give you a formal eviction notice for non-payment

Official Form: 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent or Utilities (RTB-30)

When and How It’s Used: Your landlord will serve this form if you owe any rent (including increased rent) after the due date. You have five days from receiving the notice to pay all outstanding rent or to file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch.

• RTB-30: 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy
• Delivered directly to you by the landlord (in person or as allowed by law)

How to Respond if You Can’t Pay the New Rent

If you receive a 10 Day Notice, you have two main options:

• Pay All Owed Rent Within 5 Days: After getting the notice, pay any overdue amount immediately to cancel the eviction.
• Apply for Dispute Resolution: If you believe the increase or notice is incorrect, you can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch within 5 days to dispute it. Use the Dispute Resolution Application Form.

For a step-by-step overview on paying rent, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Which Official Forms Might You Need?

• Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-7) – Used by landlords to notify you officially of a rent increase. Learn more and download at the BC government website.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12) – Use within 5 days of receiving a 10 Day Notice if you want to challenge the notice or the rent increase. Submit online or download the form at the Residential Tenancy Branch portal.

Make copies of all forms and keep receipts for any payments you make.

About the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the BC government body that oversees tenancy disputes and enforces the Residential Tenancy Act.¹ They are your go-to for dispute resolution and official guidance.

Know Your Rights: Provincial Fact Sheet

If you want a summary of your legal rights covering rent increases, evictions, and other protections, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you’re searching for more affordable housing options.

FAQ: Dealing With Rent Increases and Missed Payments

1. Can my landlord evict me if I only pay the old rent amount?
   Yes. If you don't pay the full, increased rent after the required notice period, your landlord can issue a 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy for non-payment. You risk losing your home if you don’t act.
2. What if I believe the rent increase is too high?
   If the increase is above the legal maximum or wasn’t given with proper notice, you can dispute it by applying to the Residential Tenancy Branch before the new rate takes effect.
3. How do I dispute a 10 Day Notice for unpaid rent?
   You must apply for dispute resolution within 5 days of receiving the notice using the RTB online portal or by submitting Form RTB-12.
4. Can my landlord accept partial payment and still evict me?
   If you and your landlord agree in writing to partial rent payment and you stick to that arrangement, your landlord cannot evict you for non-payment during that period.
5. Where can I check the legal rent increase limit for BC?
   You can view the current limit and guidelines at the BC Housing Tenancy site.

Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

• Always pay the full rent as increased, or dispute the increase before it takes effect
• A 10 Day Notice means act fast—only 5 days to pay or dispute
• Seek out resources if you’re struggling to meet new rent obligations

Addressing rent payment issues quickly can help preserve your housing and avoid legal problems down the road.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – BC Government: Information, forms, and dispute applications
• Contact the RTB for telephone and in-person help
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Advocacy and support for tenants in BC
• Visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia for a full overview of rights and obligations

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1. Legislation: Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)

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