Guide to the BC Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1)

Renting a home in British Columbia involves understanding your legal rights and obligations as a tenant. The Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1) is the standard lease form provided by the BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). While landlords are not legally required to use this specific form, it is strongly recommended because it covers all the essential terms required by the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA). This guide walks you through every section of the RTB-1, explains what each term means, and offers practical advice for newcomers signing their first lease in BC.

What Is the RTB-1?

The RTB-1 is a fillable PDF form available for free on the BC Residential Tenancy Branch website. It serves as a template for a residential tenancy agreement between a landlord and a tenant. The form is designed to ensure that both parties understand the key terms of the tenancy and that the agreement complies with the Residential Tenancy Act.

Using the RTB-1 or a similar written agreement is important because it creates a clear record of what was agreed upon. If a dispute arises later, the written agreement is the primary document the RTB will refer to when making decisions. Without a written agreement, it can be much harder to prove the terms of the tenancy.

Key Sections of the RTB-1

1. Parties to the Agreement

The first section identifies the landlord and the tenant. You must provide your full legal name. If there are multiple tenants (such as roommates who are jointly on the lease), all names should be listed. The landlord's name and contact information must also be included. If the landlord uses a property management company, that company's name and contact details should appear here as well.

It is important to verify the identity of the landlord. Before signing, you may want to confirm that the person offering the rental is the actual owner or authorized agent of the property. Scams involving fake rental listings do occur, so exercising caution is wise. For general advice on finding rental housing, see our guide on how to apply for rental housing in BC.

2. Rental Unit Address

The full address of the rental unit, including any unit or suite number, must be clearly stated. This identifies exactly which unit is being rented. If the rental includes specific parking spaces, storage lockers, or other additional areas, those should be noted as well.

3. Term of Tenancy

This section specifies whether the tenancy is a fixed-term or month-to-month arrangement. A fixed-term tenancy has a specific start and end date (for example, one year). A month-to-month tenancy continues indefinitely until either party gives proper notice to end it.

Under BC law, a fixed-term tenancy that does not include a "vacate clause" automatically converts to a month-to-month tenancy at the end of the fixed term. This means you generally cannot be forced to leave simply because the fixed term has ended. The landlord must follow the proper legal process for ending a tenancy, as outlined in the Residential Tenancy Act.

4. Rent

The rent amount, due date, and acceptable payment methods are specified here. In BC, rent is typically due on the first day of each month unless the agreement states otherwise. The form also indicates whether rent includes utilities, internet, or other services. Clarify these details before signing to avoid surprises.

BC limits how much a landlord can increase rent each year. Rent increases are governed by the annual allowable increase set by the provincial government. For 2026, you can find the current allowable increase on the Residential Tenancy Branch rent increase page. A landlord cannot increase rent more than once every 12 months, and they must provide at least 3 months' written notice using the proper RTB form.

5. Security Deposit and Pet Damage Deposit

The RTB-1 includes sections for the security deposit and the pet damage deposit. Under BC law:

• The security deposit cannot exceed half of one month's rent.
• The pet damage deposit (if applicable) also cannot exceed half of one month's rent.
• The total deposits combined cannot exceed one full month's rent.

The landlord must return your deposits within 15 days of the tenancy ending, unless they apply to the RTB to retain some or all of the deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear. If the landlord does not return the deposit or apply within 15 days, you are entitled to the full amount back. This is one of the most commonly disputed aspects of tenancies, so document the condition of the unit thoroughly at move-in and move-out. For more on your rights as a tenant, see our guide to tenant rights for newcomers in BC.

6. Condition Inspection Report

The RTB-1 references the condition inspection, which is a separate but critical process. Before you move in, you and the landlord (or their agent) should conduct a thorough inspection of the rental unit and document its condition using the Condition Inspection Report form. This report protects both parties: it establishes the baseline condition of the unit so that any damages at the end of the tenancy can be assessed fairly.

The condition inspection must be offered to the tenant by the landlord. If the landlord fails to conduct a move-in condition inspection, they lose the right to claim against the security deposit for damages (except in limited circumstances). Take photos and keep your own copy of the inspection report.

7. Services and Facilities

The agreement should list any services or facilities included with the rental, such as laundry, parking, storage, internet, cable, heat, or hot water. If any of these services are included in the rent, they cannot be removed without the tenant's consent and proper legal process. If they are provided at an additional cost, the amount should be specified.

8. Restrictions and Rules

This section covers any rules that apply to the tenancy, such as no-smoking policies, noise restrictions, guest policies, and rules about common areas. Landlords can set reasonable rules, but those rules cannot contradict the Residential Tenancy Act or the BC Human Rights Code. For example, a landlord cannot impose rules that discriminate based on race, gender, family status, or other protected grounds.

9. Pets

The RTB-1 includes a section about whether pets are permitted. If pets are allowed, the type and number of pets should be specified. If a pet damage deposit is required, it should be noted in the deposits section. Note that under the Strata Property Act, some strata councils (condominiums) may have bylaws restricting pets, and these restrictions are enforceable even if your tenancy agreement allows pets.

10. Additional Terms

The RTB-1 includes space for additional terms agreed upon by both parties. These terms must comply with the Residential Tenancy Act. Any term that contradicts the Act is unenforceable, even if both parties signed it. For example, a clause stating that the tenant waives their right to dispute a rent increase would be unenforceable because the Act guarantees this right.

Signing the Agreement

Both the landlord and the tenant must sign the RTB-1 for it to be complete. Each party should keep a signed copy. The landlord is required to provide the tenant with a copy of the signed agreement within 21 days. If you do not receive a copy, request one in writing and keep a record of your request.

Before signing, read every section carefully. If you do not understand something, ask for clarification. Consider having a trusted friend, settlement worker, or legal advisor review the agreement with you. Many newcomer settlement agencies in BC offer free assistance with tenancy agreements.

What If There Is No Written Agreement?

In BC, a tenancy agreement does not have to be in writing to be legally valid. A verbal agreement is still a tenancy agreement under the Residential Tenancy Act. However, without a written record, it is much harder to prove the terms of the agreement in a dispute. The RTB will apply the default terms of the Residential Tenancy Act in the absence of a written agreement, which generally favors the tenant's protection.

That said, always insist on a written agreement. The RTB-1 is free and easy to fill out. Using it protects both you and the landlord and provides clarity for the entire tenancy.

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

• Landlord refuses to provide a written agreement: This is a red flag. You can still rent the unit, but document all agreed terms in writing (even an email summary) and send it to the landlord for confirmation.
• Illegal clauses: If your agreement contains terms that violate the RTA (such as requiring more than half a month's rent as a security deposit), those terms are void. You do not need to comply with illegal terms.
• Rent increases without proper notice: A landlord must use the proper RTB form and give 3 months' notice. If they do not, the increase is invalid.
• Landlord entering the unit without notice: Under the RTA, a landlord must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies. Details are available on the BC government tenant protection page.

Resources for Tenants

The BC Residential Tenancy Branch offers a wealth of resources for both tenants and landlords. You can download the RTB-1 and all other forms, access fact sheets on common tenancy issues, and learn about the dispute resolution process on the RTB website. If you have a question about your rights, the RTB information line is available at 604-660-1020 (Lower Mainland) or 1-800-665-8779 (rest of BC).

For newcomers who are also navigating the immigration process, our BC Provincial Nominee Program guide can help you understand your pathway to permanent residency. And if you are thinking about entrepreneurship, our guide to starting a business as a newcomer in Canada covers the basics of commercial leasing and business licensing as well.

If a dispute arises with your landlord that you cannot resolve through direct communication, you have the right to file for dispute resolution with the RTB. Our guide on getting married in Canada as a newcomer is another useful resource if you are settling with a partner and need to navigate multiple legal processes simultaneously.

Understanding the RTB-1 and the Residential Tenancy Act is essential for anyone renting in British Columbia. The agreement is your contract, and knowing what it contains gives you the power to protect your rights and enjoy your tenancy with confidence. Take the time to read it thoroughly, ask questions, and keep your signed copy in a safe place.