Rent

Paying rent

Tenants must pay their full rent on time as required in their tenancy agreement.

Before a tenancy, the landlord and tenant negotiate the rent amount and agree on what additional services (e.g., utilities, parking) are included. Landlords are responsible for preparing a written tenancy agreement outlining these terms. 

Rent increases

Landlords can only increase rent if they provide tenants with at least 3 full months notice. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months and must be within the yearly rent increase limit, as set by the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Tenants must pay the increased rent, unless the increase is unlawful.

Rent increases to offset growing costs and expenses

To raise rent above the annual rent increase limit, landlords must have the tenant's written agreement or apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) for an Additional Rent Increase for Expenses or an Additional Rent Increase for Capital Expenditures. 

Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch 

The Residential Tenancy Branch provides information, resources and dispute resolution services for tenants and landlords.