Featured myth-busts
The ones worth sharing.
These are the misconceptions that cost the most time, money, and tenancies. Each card links to a dedicated page you can forward.
No 'last month's rent' in BC. Max half-month security deposit plus half-month pet deposit. Anything more is unlawful, even if a lease asks for it.
The landlord can ask for last month's rent up front.Open page →
Fixed-term leases default to month-to-month at the end. A landlord cannot force move-out unless a strictly-limited vacate clause applies.
A fixed-term lease means the tenant has to move out at the end.Open page →
Landlord entry requires 24 hours' written notice, a reasonable purpose, and a time between 8am and 9pm. Repeated no-notice entry is a material breach.
The landlord owns the place, so they can enter whenever they want.Open page →
Rent increases in BC: once every 12 months, capped to the provincial maximum, 3 months' written notice on Form RTB-7. Anything more is unenforceable.
The landlord can raise the rent whenever they want, to match the market.Open page →
A sale doesn't end a tenancy. Tenancies transfer with the property. The new owner takes over on identical terms.
When the landlord sells the building, the tenancy ends and I have to move.Open page →
Security deposit: 15 days to return OR apply to RTB. Landlord who does neither owes you double the deposit. Normal wear isn't deductible.
The landlord can keep the security deposit for any damage.Open page →
All documented myths
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Both sides
Landlords can restrict pets in the tenancy agreement. If pets are allowed, the landlord can require up to a half-month pet damage deposit (on top of the security deposit).
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Landlord myth
Never. Rent still flows. Failure to pay is a separate breach that lets the landlord evict. The remedy for bad repairs is a dispute resolution application.
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Landlord myth
No public data supports this. RTB arbitrators are required to rule on evidence. Individual decisions are searchable, so anyone can check.
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Both sides
RTB decisions are final. Appeals are available only on narrow judicial-review grounds (procedural fairness, jurisdiction). Missing your hearing is usually forfeit.