Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Six Steps to Claim Unclaimed Property

People’s Law School
This page explains the steps of making a claim for unclaimed property — the legal term for money held by an organization that the rightful owner hasn’t used for a long time.
Last reviewed October 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Discrimination in Housing

People’s Law School
Explains how to identify discrimination in housing and what steps to take if you’re discriminated against. Whether you’re renting, living in a strata, or buying a home, you can’t be treated badly or unfairly because of certain parts of your identity, such as race, sex, or any disability.
Last reviewed July 2024
Logo with two swoops and a circle to represent a person, and "Legal Aid BC."

Your Home on Reserve — Who Can Stay in the Family Home on Reserve

Legal Aid BC
Describes the laws about homes on reserve. Has information on who can stay in the family home on reserve after a separation or a partner dies, who these laws apply to, and where to get help with this issue.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the handbook cover with a photo of older adults participating in an arts and crafts activity, assisted by a younger woman.

When I’m 64: Services for Older Adults

People’s Law School
Links to downloading the PDF or ordering free print copies of this booklet explaining services available for older adults in BC. Learn about the health care, housing, social, and transportation options available to help you make informed decisions and healthy lifestyle choices as you age.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Stratas

People’s Law School
Practical information on your rights and responsibilities when living in a strata. Topics include getting your special project approved, dealing with your strata, and getting a bylaw changed.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Selling Your Home

People’s Law School
Learn about what you should consider before putting up the “For Sale” sign. It explains the difference between selling your home yourself or hiring a real estate agent. It covers the process of selling a home, from getting a valuation to completing the sale.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo is the wordmark “BCFSA” in dark blue and green, above the organization name in dark blue.

Your Real Estate Selling Journey

BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA)
An overview of selling a home in BC. Topics include working with a licensed real estate professional, service agreements and listing contracts, offers to purchase and “subject to” clauses, completing the sale, and things to watch out for.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Renting, Buying & Selling Strata

Government of British Columbia
Each strata has its own set of rules, called bylaws, that cover various aspects of living there. These rules might limit or ban things like owning pets, renting out your unit for short periods, or smoking indoors.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features a red chevron shape resembling a rooftop above the acronym "CMHC" and its French equivalent "SCHL," with a small maple leaf in between the two acronyms.

Renovation, Repair and Renewal Funding for Indigenous Housing

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Learn about funding and financing programs for reconstructing, renovating, or preserving housing for Indigenous communities, whether on reserve or off reserve.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the organization name beside a stylized green maple leaf containing a white house icon with a red door.

The Renovation Process

Canadian Home Builders’ Association
Discusses the importance of good communication and clear documentation during a renovation, and the specific responsibilities of the renovator and homeowner. It highlights the use of change orders for alterations or extra work and the necessity for homeowner approval before any work that results in added costs.
Last reviewed March 2024