Are you a tenant in British Columbia? If so, you need to know about the new rent increase limits for 2024. This guide will help you understand how much your rent can go up, what the rules are, and what you can do if your landlord tries to increase your rent unlawfully. Read on to get all the details.
BC Rent Increase 2024
In 2024, landlords in British Columbia can raise the rent by 3.5%. This is higher than the previous limit of 2%. The Ministry of Housing announced this on September 11, 2024. During 2020 and 2021, rent increases were canceled to help tenants save money.
This 3.5% increase is still below the average annual inflation rate of 5.4%. For the second year in a row, rent hikes are set below the inflation rate to protect tenants.
British Columbia Rent Increase 2024
Landlords in British Columbia can only raise rent once a year. This increase must be agreed upon with the tenants or be in line with the law. Even if the landlord changes, the new landlord must follow the same rules.
Landlords cannot backdate rent increases. If they missed a rent hike last year, they can’t apply it this year.
BC Rent Increase for the Last Five Years
Here’s a look at rent increase limits over the past five years:
| Year | Rent Increase Limit |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 2.5% |
| 2020 | 2.6% |
| 2021 | 0% |
| 2022 | 1.5% |
| 2023 | 2% |
| 2024 | 3.5% |
How Much Does Allowable Rent Increase in British Columbia?
The rent increase cannot go over the set limit. If a tenant pays more than the allowed amount, they can deduct the extra from future rent payments. Tenants must provide a written explanation if they refuse to pay an unlawful increase.
Notice of the Rent Increase Form
If a landlord decides to raise the rent, they must use the official Notice of Rent Increase form. Tenants must receive this notice three months in advance. The form has two pages, and both must be filled out correctly without rounding off the rent increase amount.
What to Do About Unlawful Rent Increases in BC?
If your landlord asks for more rent than allowed, you can provide proof of the legal rent amount. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, you can file a dispute resolution application to get the landlord to follow the rules.
For more help, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch. You can email them at HSTRO@gov.bc.ca or call 1-800-665-8779, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.
FAQ’s
How much can landlords in British Columbia raise the rent in 2024?
Landlords in British Columbia can raise the rent by up to 3.5% in 2024. This limit was set by the Ministry of Housing and is lower than the average inflation rate.
Can landlords raise rent more than once a year in British Columbia?
No, landlords in British Columbia can only raise rent once a year. Any increase must be agreed upon with the tenants or follow legal guidelines.
What should I do if my landlord tries to raise my rent above the allowed limit?
If your landlord tries to raise your rent above the allowed limit, provide them with proof of the legal rent increase amount. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can file a dispute resolution application with the Residential Tenancy Branch.