What should I do before moving into a rental in BC?
To start, it is important to understand if the RTA applies to your tenancy. See “Does the Residential Tenancy Act apply to my situation?”
Before moving into a rental, review and sign a written tenancy agreement. Walk through the unit with your landlord and complete a Condition Inspection Report, noting any existing damage. Take photos for your records.
Pay your damage deposit (usually half a month’s rent) and get a receipt. Doing this protects your rights when moving out.
See information on Finding a Home on RentingItRight.ca. You can also learn more Starting a Tenancy (opens in a new tab) from the BC Residential Tenancy Branch. You can also use this site to get free answers to your rental questions: Ask a Human or Ask AI.
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- Renting It Right (opens in a new tab)
Tenants learn how to find rental housing, maintain problem-free tenancies, and resolve legal disputes.
- BC Residential Tenancy Branch (opens in a new tab)
This government agency provides a range of information and services related to residential tenancy in BC, including resolving landlord/tenant disputes.
- Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (opens in a new tab)
The TRAC website provides a range of information to help tenants address legal issues.
- Tenant Survival Guide (TRAC) (opens in a new tab)
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- BC Housing (opens in a new tab)
This government agency develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidized housing options, including social housing and rental assistance programs.
- Community Legal Assistance Society (opens in a new tab)
CLAS provides free legal assistance on loss of housing, human rights complaints, accessing government benefits, and more.