5. Rent: The Rules of the Game

In BC, rent is regulated. Landlords can’t just change the price or the rules whenever they feel like it.

Paying Your Rent

• • • Due Date: Usually the 1st of the month. If the 1st falls on a Sunday or a holiday, rent is still due on the 1st.
    • Receipts: Always pay in a way that leaves a trail (e-transfer, cheque). If you pay in cash, the landlord is legally required to give you a signed and dated receipt immediately.

Rent Increases

Landlords can only raise your rent once every 12 months.

• • • The 3-Month Rule: You must receive a formal “Notice of Rent Increase” at least three full months before the increase starts.
    • The Limit: They can only raise it by the percentage set by the BC Government for that year (e.g., in 2026, check the current provincial limit). You do not have to pay an illegal increase.

Exceptions to the Cap

If a landlord wants to raise your rent more than the annual limit (for example, for major capital repairs), they must apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) first. They cannot just tell you “the roof was expensive, so rent is up $200.”