In 2024, British Columbia will allow landlords to raise rent by 3.5%, an increase from the previous limit of 2%.
This change was announced by the Ministry of Housing on September 11, 2024, and is part of the province’s ongoing efforts to manage housing affordability.
This new cap is below the 5.4% inflation rate, ensuring rent increases remain reasonable for tenants while addressing rising costs for landlords.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2024 rent increase in BC, including the rules, limits, and what to do if faced with an unlawful increase.
BC Rent Increase 2024
The allowable rent increase for 2024 is set at 3.5%, higher than the 2% cap in 2023. This follows the trend of limiting rent increases below inflation to help tenants manage the rising cost of living.
The rent increase applies once a year and includes considerations for local government taxes and regulated utility rates. However, landlords cannot add additional fees or raise rent beyond this limit.
Prior to 2018, rent increases were calculated by adding 2% to the provincial inflation rate, but this was eliminated following recommendations from the Rental Housing Task Force. Now, rent hikes are based solely on inflation.
Rent Increase Rules in British Columbia
Landlords in BC must follow strict guidelines when increasing rent. Key rules include:
- One increase per year: Landlords can only raise rent once a year, and only if they follow the legal procedures.
- Three-month notice: Tenants must receive a three-month written notice using the correct Notice of Rent Increase form.
- No retroactive increases: Landlords cannot make up for missed increases from previous years or apply partial increases from the past.
Five-Year Rent Increase Comparison
| Year | Rent Increase Limit |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 2.5% |
| 2020 | 2.6% |
| 2021 | 0% |
| 2022 | 1.5% |
| 2023 | 2% |
| 2024 | 3.5% |
How Much Can Rent Increase?
Landlords cannot raise rent by more than 3.5% in 2024, and they must calculate the exact amount without rounding up.
For example, if your rent is $1,000, the maximum increase would be $35 per month, bringing the total to $1,035.
If a tenant believes they have been overcharged, they can deduct the overpayment from future rent. Tenants should also provide their landlord with a written explanation if they believe the increase is unlawful.
Notice of Rent Increase
Landlords must use the Notice of Rent Increase form to inform tenants about rent changes. This form ensures the increase complies with BC’s rent control laws and provides tenants with sufficient time to prepare for the adjustment. The notice must include:
- A clear calculation of the rent increase.
- A three-month advance notice period.
Landlords must complete both pages of the form and avoid rounding errors when calculating the increase. Incorrect or incomplete notices can be challenged by tenants.
Dealing with Unlawful Rent Increases
If a landlord tries to increase rent above the 3.5% cap, tenants have options:
- Provide documentation: Tenants can show the landlord proof of the allowable rent increase limit.
- File a dispute: Tenants can file a dispute resolution application with the Residential Tenancy Branch if the landlord refuses to comply with the law.
However, if an arbitrator grants a rent increase higher than the allowable cap, tenants may not be eligible to challenge it through dispute resolution.
Contact Information
For more information or to address concerns about rent increases, tenants can contact the Residential Tenancy Branch:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 1-800-665-8779 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm)
By staying informed and understanding the rules around rent increases, tenants can protect their rights and ensure they only pay lawful rent amounts.
FAQs
What is the rent increase limit in BC for 2024?
The rent increase limit for 2024 is 3.5%.
How often can landlords raise rent in BC?
Landlords can raise rent once per year, following a three-month notice period.
Can landlords increase rent by more than 3.5% in 2024?
No, landlords cannot increase rent by more than 3.5% unless granted permission by an arbitrator.
How do I dispute an unlawful rent increase?
Tenants can file a dispute resolution application with the Residential Tenancy Branch if their landlord exceeds the allowable increase.
How much notice do landlords need to give for a rent increase?
Landlords must provide three months’ written notice using the Notice of Rent Increase form.
