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.

An eviction occurs when a landlord legally forces a tenant to move out of a rental unit. If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you an approved notice with an acceptable reason for eviction according to the Residential Tenancy Act.

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.

Legal information for all stages of your tenancy — from starting a tenancy to ending one. Includes how to resolve disputes.

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

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.

If you’re experiencing a problem in your tenancy, you should consider putting your concerns in writing to your landlord. TRAC offers the following template letters: Request for Repairs, Request for Return of Deposit, Response to Illegal Eviction Notice, Loss of Quiet Enjoyment, Bed Bugs, and more.

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.