My landlord hasn’t carried out repairs. Can I stop paying rent?

Last reviewed June 2024 by the Clicklaw editors

Even if your landlord hasn’t carried out repairs, you must still pay your rent, or you could get evicted. But there are things you can do to make sure the repairs are done, and you may be compensated for delayed repairs.

When repairs are needed

If you (or your guests or pets) didn’t cause the damage, the landlord is generally responsible for the repair. You should tell your landlord about things that need to be fixed as soon as possible in writing. Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) has a template letter for reporting repairs and maintenance (Word doc) you can use. Keep track of the repairs that need to be done and your attempts to let your landlord know in writing.

Emergency repairs

TRAC has a template letter for requesting a reimbursement (Word doc) if you need to have emergency repairs done. See section 33 of the Residential Tenancy Act for what is considered an “emergency repair” and when you can have them done.

Applying for dispute resolution

If you write to your landlord and they don’t make the necessary repairs within a reasonable time, you have the right to apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch. Continue to pay rent as you go through this process. You can apply for compensation and a rent reduction until your landlord has completed the repair.

Helpful resources

The Tenant Survival Guide (TRAC): This guide has a chapter on repairs and services.
Renting It Right (TRAC): Find online courses for tenants. Maintenance is covered in the Tenant-Landlord Law course in a section called “Repairs and Services.”
During a Tenancy (Government of BC): This has a section on repairs and maintenance.
LSLAP Manual: Landlord and Tenant Law (PDF) (Law Students’ Legal Advice Program): This manual has a section on “Repair and Service,” which includes “No Withholding Rent.”
A Playbook for Tenants (People’s Law School): Learn more about the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. You’ll also find information about dispute resolution.
Dial-a-Law: Residential Tenancy (People’s Law School): This has a section called “What if a landlord won’t make a needed repair?”

Helpful services

Tenant Infoline (TRAC): This info line provides information, referrals, and help for tenants dealing with residential tenancy law matters.
Residential Tenancy Branch (Government of BC): The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, education, and dispute resolution services for tenants and landlords. They also have an office in Burnaby.
Find more services.