Legal Resources

Explains the rules landlords must follow about locks and keys. It includes what you need to know when starting a tenancy, during a tenancy, and when ending a tenancy. It includes information on dispute resolution, with previous Residential Tenancy Board decisions.

Tips on finding a place to rent, including what the costs are, what questions to ask when you view a unit, the signs of a rental scam, what to do if you have a poor credit history, and whether to get tenant insurance. Includes templates for a cover letter, references list, and pet resumé.

A security deposit is money that your landlord collects at the start of the tenancy and holds on to until you move out. Find out more details about it, including pet damage deposits, overpaying deposits, applying deposits toward rent, and getting your deposits returned.

The Residential Tenancy Branch handles most rental disputes in BC, but there are some exceptions where you’d have to go to court or a tribunal. Beyond formal hearings, tenants and landlords are encouraged to negotiate settlements, with options to engage an arbitrator.

This plain-language guide offers tenants a basic understanding of residential tenancy law in BC. It’s designed to educate readers on their rights and responsibilities, and help prevent or resolve any problems they may encounter during their tenancy.

Includes a list of repair and maintenance issues that landlords are generally responsible for, what to do when you need an emergency repair, and what is considered reasonable wear and tear versus damage that the tenant must fix.

As a tenant, you have the right to reasonable privacy, and freedom from unreasonable disturbances from both neighbours and landlords. Learn about the rules for when the landlord can enter your unit, and what you can do about excessive noise and other breaches of quiet enjoyment.

Tips on giving notice, your cleaning responsibilities, inspection reports, and getting your damage deposit back.

Discusses different types of roommate arrangements: co-tenants, tenants in common, and occupants/roommates. The page emphasizes the importance of having a roommate agreement to prevent disputes and outlines the legal avenues for resolving conflicts.

Explains what goes into a tenancy agreement with your landlord, and the different arrangements you can have with a roommate.