The BC landlord checklist: forms and steps
Updated June 5, 2026 · British Columbia, Canada
Every form a BC landlord needs is free and official — the hard part is knowing which one, when. Here’s the full sequence, from listing to move-in day, with each form linked.
For an interactive version you can check off (and print), use our landlord checklist on the homepage.
Before move-in
- Tenancy agreement — RTB-1. Written agreement with all standard terms. Give the tenant a signed copy within 21 days. Full guide: BC residential tenancy agreement.
- Collect deposits — within the legal caps. Half a month’s rent maximum each for security and pet deposits. See BC security deposit rules.
- Condition inspection — RTB-27. Walk through together on move-in day, record everything, both sign, give the tenant a copy. Full guide: move-in inspection.
- Hand over the essentials. Keys, garbage schedule, parking/strata rules, your repair contact.
During the tenancy
- Rent increases — RTB-7. Maximum 2.3% in 2026, three full months’ notice, once per 12 months. See the rent increase guide.
- Keep records. The signed agreement, inspection reports, rent receipts, and all written communication.
Ending a tenancy
The form depends on the reason:
- RTB-30 — 10 Day Notice for unpaid rent or utilities
- RTB-33 — One Month Notice for cause
- RTB-32L — Three Month Notice for landlord’s use (must be generated through the RTB web portal for notices on or after June 18, 2025)
More in the move-out notice guide.
Official resources
Frequently asked questions
What forms does a BC landlord need?
At minimum: the Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTB-1) and the Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27). Later you may need the Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-7) and, to end a tenancy, RTB-30, RTB-33, or RTB-32L depending on the reason.
Are BC tenancy forms free?
Yes. All official forms are free downloads from the BC government, or available at Service BC locations.
Do I have to do a move-in inspection?
Yes — and skipping it can cost you the right to claim against the security deposit for damage.