British Columbia Landlord-Tenant Laws (2026)
The RTA governs most BC residential tenancies and is administered by the Residential Tenancy Branch. Entry requires 24 hours' notice, condition inspections are mandatory, and the RTB offers online dispute resolution for both parties.
Governing law: Residential Tenancy Act, S.B.C. 2002, c. 78
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Entry rules
Except in emergencies or with consent, a landlord must give written notice at least 24 hours before entering, stating the reason and a time between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Mandatory inspections
Move-in and move-out condition inspection reports are required; failing to complete them can forfeit a landlord's claim on the deposit.
Repairs
Landlords must maintain the property to health, safety, and housing standards and keep it suitable for occupation throughout the tenancy.
The RTB and dispute resolution
Disputes are resolved by the Residential Tenancy Branch through arbitration, much of it online. Decisions are binding and enforceable.
You can't contract out
A tenancy agreement term that conflicts with the Act or attempts to waive a tenant's rights is unenforceable.
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