BC rent increase notice: a step-by-step checklist

A rent increase only sticks if it follows BC’s rules exactly. Work through this checklist before you serve notice.

The core rules

Use the allowable amount for the year — for 2026 the limit is 2.3%.
Give at least three full months’ written notice before the increase takes effect.
Increase the rent only once every 12 months for the same tenant.
Serve it on the official Notice of Rent Increase (RTB-7).

Watch the effective date

The increase takes effect on a rent-due date, after three whole months have passed. Notice given anywhere in January (rent due on the 1st) means the increase starts May 1 — not three calendar days later. How you serve the notice can also add days before it is considered received.

Last reviewed June 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. BC rules change — confirm the current requirements and forms with the Residential Tenancy Branch before acting.