If you’re a tenant in British Columbia, you have important rights when it comes to your privacy and your landlord’s access to your home. Unlawful entry by a landlord is a serious issue, but BC law gives you tools to protect your space. This guide explains your rights and what to do if your landlord enters without proper notice or consent.

When Can a Landlord Legally Enter Your Rental in BC?

According to the Residential Tenancy Act, BC landlords can only enter a tenant’s unit in specific situations:

• In an emergency (such as fire, flood, or urgent repairs)
• If you have given written, informed consent
• After giving you proper written notice at least 24 hours in advance (for inspections, repairs, or showings)
• If the landlord believes the unit has been abandoned

The notice must state the purpose, date, and time (between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.), and cannot be used to harass or intimidate you.

What Counts as Illegal or Unauthorized Entry?

If your landlord enters your home without proper notice, without consent, or outside the allowed hours, this is considered illegal entry. Common examples include:

• Landlord entering while you are not home, without giving notice
• Use of master keys without warning
• Repeatedly entering for non-urgent reasons or at unreasonable times

Understanding the boundaries can help you respond confidently to any violations.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Tenants have Tenant Rights in British Columbia that include the right to quiet enjoyment and privacy. At the same time, you are expected to allow access for reasonable maintenance, official showings, and emergencies with proper notice.

For an overview of tenant and landlord duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Respond to Illegal Entry by Your Landlord

If you believe your landlord has entered illegally, you have several options to address the breach. Here’s a clear summary to help you take action:

• Document each incident with dates, times, and any communication
• Communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord
• Apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch if the issue continues or is severe

For most issues, start by raising your concern directly and in writing. If the entry was an isolated mistake, a clear message may resolve it. If illegal entries continue, you have a right to file a formal complaint.

Keep a detailed log of any unauthorized entries—this documentation can be crucial if you make an official complaint at the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Filing a Complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the official board that handles landlord and tenant disputes in BC. If your privacy is repeatedly violated, you may apply for dispute resolution.

• Form RTB-12: Application for Dispute Resolution
  Use this form to ask the Residential Tenancy Branch to address your complaint, seek an order for the landlord to stop, or even request compensation.
  Apply online or download the RTB-12 form here.
  Example: If a landlord enters without notice multiple times and ignores your written requests to stop, you can use this form to request an order prohibiting further entry or seek monetary compensation.

Include any evidence (logs, messages, photos, statements) to support your claim.

What Can Tenants Ask For?

Possible outcomes from the Residential Tenancy Branch include:

• A written order telling the landlord to stop unlawful entries
• Monetary compensation if the illegal entry caused harm (such as loss of quiet enjoyment)
• Permission to change the locks in some cases (with written RTB approval)

The RTB’s decision will depend on the facts and evidence you provide.

Extra Tips for Protecting Your Privacy

• Always communicate in writing—it creates a record
• Keep copies of notices or texts from your landlord
• Know that retaliation or threats for standing up for your rights are also not allowed under BC law

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice in BC?
   Generally, landlords must give at least 24 hours written notice unless it’s an emergency.
2. What should I do if my landlord keeps entering without permission?
   Document each incident and apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for dispute resolution using the RTB-12 form.
3. Can I change the locks after an unlawful entry?
   You must not change locks without the landlord’s consent or an order from the Residential Tenancy Branch.
4. Is unauthorized entry a reason for ending my tenancy?
   Repeated violations may be grounds to apply for ending your tenancy with the RTB’s approval.
5. Who can help me with tenant rights issues in BC?
   The RTB and local advocacy services can answer questions and guide you through the process.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in BC can only enter with proper notice, your consent, or in an emergency
• Document illegal entries and communicate in writing with your landlord
• File a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancy Branch if the problem continues

Your rights are protected by the Residential Tenancy Act; use the available resources to enforce them, if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): 1-800-665-8779
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): https://tenants.bc.ca/
• BC Housing – Tenant Support: https://www.bchousing.org/tenant
• About your rights: Tenant Rights in British Columbia

---

1. Residential Tenancy Act, current legislation
2. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): official government site
3. Tenants Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): tenant advocacy support

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