Guide to the BC Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1) for Newcomers
By WelcomeAide Team
What Is the RTB-1 Tenancy Agreement?
The RTB-1 Residential Tenancy Agreement is the standard rental contract used in British Columbia, Canada. It is the official form provided by the BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) and outlines the terms and conditions of the rental arrangement between a landlord and a tenant.
As a newcomer to Canada, understanding your tenancy agreement is crucial. Renting is often the first housing step for newcomers, and BC has strong tenant protection laws. The RTB-1 form ensures that both landlords and tenants are aware of their rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA).
In BC, a landlord is required by law to give you a written tenancy agreement within 21 days of the start of your tenancy. Even if your landlord doesn't provide one, you still have full protection under the RTA. However, having a written agreement signed by both parties is always in your best interest.
Why the RTB-1 Matters for Newcomers
Many newcomers come from countries where rental agreements are informal or verbal. In BC, things work differently:
- Your tenancy agreement is a legal contract that protects both you and your landlord
- BC law limits what landlords can charge and do — your landlord cannot just make up rules that violate the RTA
- Rent increases are capped — your landlord can only increase rent once per year by the amount allowed by the BC government (2.9% for 2025, set annually)
- You cannot be evicted without proper cause and notice
- Security deposits are regulated — maximum half a month's rent for a damage deposit, and half a month's rent for a pet damage deposit
Key Sections of the RTB-1 Form
The RTB-1 form has several important sections. Here's what each section means and what to look for:
Section 1: Parties to the Agreement
This section identifies who is involved in the tenancy:
- Landlord's name and contact information: This must be the legal name of the landlord or property management company. Make sure you have a way to contact them
- Tenant's name(s): All adults living in the unit should be listed. If you're sharing with roommates, all names should appear
- Address of the rental unit: The exact address, including unit number
Section 2: Term of Tenancy
This specifies the type of tenancy:
- Fixed-term tenancy: Has a specific start and end date (e.g., one year). At the end of the fixed term, the tenancy typically converts to month-to-month unless the agreement specifies otherwise
- Month-to-month tenancy: Continues indefinitely with either party able to end it with proper notice
Important for newcomers: In BC, a fixed-term lease cannot require you to move out at the end of the term unless there is a "vacate clause" AND the landlord has specific legal grounds (this was changed in 2017). If your lease ends, you automatically become a month-to-month tenant. Be cautious of landlords who pressure you to sign a new lease at a higher rent — you have the right to continue renting.
Section 3: Rent
This section covers all payment details:
- Monthly rent amount: The total amount you pay each month
- Payment due date: Usually the 1st of each month, but can be any agreed date
- Payment method: How you'll pay (e-transfer, cheque, cash, etc.)
- What's included in rent: Whether utilities like heat, hot water, electricity, internet, and parking are included or extra
Tip: Always get a receipt for rent payments, especially cash payments. In BC, landlords are required to provide receipts if you ask.
Section 4: Security Deposit and Pet Damage Deposit
Understanding deposit rules in BC is essential:
- Security deposit (damage deposit): Maximum half of one month's rent. If your rent is $2,000, the maximum damage deposit is $1,000
- Pet damage deposit: Maximum half of one month's rent, in addition to the security deposit. Only applies if you have a pet
- Deposits must be returned within 15 days of the end of your tenancy, minus any legitimate deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Landlords must do a condition inspection at the start and end of your tenancy. Participate in both inspections and keep copies of the inspection reports
Warning for newcomers: Some landlords may try to charge more than the legal maximum for deposits, or charge non-refundable deposits. This is illegal in BC. Do not pay more than half a month's rent for a damage deposit.
Section 5: Condition Inspection Report
The condition inspection is critically important:
- Your landlord must offer to do a move-in condition inspection with you before you move in
- This report documents the condition of the unit — any existing damage, marks, stains, or issues
- Both you and the landlord sign the report
- Keep your copy safe — this protects you from being charged for damage that existed before you moved in
- Take your own photos and videos of the unit on move-in day as additional evidence
Section 6: Additional Terms
This section allows the landlord to add extra terms, such as:
- Rules about noise, smoking, or guests
- Use of common areas (laundry, gym, parking)
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Pet restrictions
Important: Additional terms cannot override the Residential Tenancy Act. Even if you sign an agreement with an illegal clause, that clause is unenforceable. For example, a clause that says "no children" or "landlord can enter without notice" is illegal and void.
How to Get and Complete the RTB-1
- Download the form from the BC Residential Tenancy Branch website at gov.bc.ca/landlordtenant
- Your landlord should provide the agreement — if they don't, you can suggest using the RTB-1 form
- Read every section carefully before signing. Ask questions about anything you don't understand
- Both parties sign two copies — one for you and one for your landlord
- Keep your signed copy in a safe place
Your Rights as a Tenant in BC
BC has some of the strongest tenant protections in Canada. Here are key rights every newcomer should know:
- Right to quiet enjoyment: You have the right to live peacefully in your rental unit without unnecessary interference from your landlord
- Right to privacy: Your landlord must give you 24 hours written notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies)
- Right to necessary repairs: Your landlord must maintain the unit in a reasonable state of repair. If something breaks through normal use, it's the landlord's responsibility to fix it
- Right to limited rent increases: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months by the amount set by the BC government
- Right to dispute: If you have a conflict with your landlord, you can file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch
- Protection from discrimination: Under the BC Human Rights Code, landlords cannot refuse to rent to you based on race, religion, family status, place of origin, or other protected grounds
Common Issues Newcomers Face and How to Handle Them
No written tenancy agreement
Even without a written agreement, the RTA still protects you. However, get things in writing as soon as possible. You can ask your landlord to complete an RTB-1 at any time.
Landlord won't return your deposit
If your landlord doesn't return your deposit within 15 days of your move-out condition inspection, you can file a dispute with the RTB. The landlord may be ordered to return double the deposit amount.
Landlord wants to raise rent illegally
If your landlord tries to raise rent by more than the allowed amount or more than once per year, you can refuse the increase and file a complaint with the RTB.
Illegal eviction
If your landlord asks you to leave without proper notice or for an illegal reason, you do not have to comply. Contact the RTB immediately for guidance.
Useful Resources
- BC Residential Tenancy Branch: gov.bc.ca/landlordtenant or call 604-660-1020 (Metro Vancouver) / 1-800-665-8779 (rest of BC)
- TRAC (Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre): tenants.bc.ca — free legal information for BC tenants
- Legal Aid BC: legalaid.bc.ca — free legal help for low-income tenants
- RTB-1 form download: Available at gov.bc.ca/landlordtenant under "Forms"
Understanding your tenancy agreement is your first line of defense as a renter in BC. Take the time to read it carefully, ask questions, and know your rights. As a newcomer, you deserve safe, secure, and affordable housing.
Related Resources
WelcomeAide Tools
Related Guides
Official Government Sources
Keep WelcomeAide Free
This guide is free — and always will be.
WelcomeAide is a nonprofit. If this helped you, a small donation keeps us running for the next newcomer.
Support WelcomeAide →