British Columbia (BC) lease form
Quick answer
BC does not legally mandate use of the government's Form RTB-1 by name, but every tenancy agreement must include all standard terms set out in the Residential Tenancy Act and regulations. The RTB-1 automatically includes those terms and is the recommended form. One security deposit and one pet damage deposit are each capped at half a month's rent. Unlike Ontario, no-pet clauses are enforceable in BC.
Revun generates a British Columbia-ready lease with the required disclosures and clauses built in, then handles e-signature, rent, and renewals on the same platform.
Landlords must give the tenant a signed copy of the tenancy agreement within 21 days of both parties signing.
Every tenancy agreement must include the standard terms prescribed by the Residential Tenancy Regulation covering inspections, rent increases, repairs, access, subletting, and dispute resolution.
A written move-in condition inspection report must be completed and signed by both landlord and tenant before or at the start of occupancy.
If a pet damage deposit is collected, the landlord must provide a written receipt stating the amount and date received.
General information, not legal advice. Governing statute: Residential Tenancy Act, S.B.C. 2002, c. 78. Confirm current requirements or consult an attorney before finalizing a lease.
British Columbia lease FAQ
The RTB-1 is not legally required by name, but every tenancy agreement must include all standard terms set by the Residential Tenancy Regulation. Using the RTB-1 is the simplest way to comply.
Yes. Unlike Ontario, no-pet clauses are enforceable in BC. Landlords may prohibit pets or restrict their size, kind, or number in the tenancy agreement.
A security deposit and a pet damage deposit can each be up to half of one month's rent. Only one of each type is allowed per unit.
If the landlord does not complete a move-in inspection with the tenant, the landlord loses the right to claim any of the security deposit for damages at move-out.
