British Columbia Deposit Rules (2026)
BC allows a security deposit of up to half a month's rent and, separately, a pet damage deposit of up to half a month's rent. The deposit must be returned within 15 days of tenancy end (or the landlord must apply to keep it), or the tenant may be owed double.
Governing law: Residential Tenancy Act, S.B.C. 2002, c. 78, s. 19–20
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Half a month each
A security deposit may not exceed one-half of one month's rent. A pet damage deposit (if pets are allowed) may also be up to one-half month's rent — so a maximum of one month's rent total in deposits.
Condition inspection reports
A move-in and a move-out inspection report are required. A landlord who fails to do them can lose the right to claim against the deposit.
15-day rule
Within 15 days of the later of the tenancy ending and getting the tenant's forwarding address, the landlord must either return the deposit or file for dispute resolution to keep part of it.
Double penalty
A landlord who keeps a deposit without returning it or applying in time may be ordered to pay the tenant DOUBLE the deposit.
Interest
Deposits accrue interest at a rate set by regulation (it has been 0% in many recent years). Pay any accrued interest on return.
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