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Featured myth-busts

The ones worth sharing.

These are the misconceptions that cost the most time, money, and tenancies. Each card links to a dedicated page you can forward.

Tenant myth

No 'last month's rent' in BC. Max half-month security deposit plus half-month pet deposit. Anything more is unlawful, even if a lease asks for it.

The landlord can ask for last month's rent up front.
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Both sides

Fixed-term leases default to month-to-month at the end. A landlord cannot force move-out unless a strictly-limited vacate clause applies.

A fixed-term lease means the tenant has to move out at the end.
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Tenant myth

Landlord entry requires 24 hours' written notice, a reasonable purpose, and a time between 8am and 9pm. Repeated no-notice entry is a material breach.

The landlord owns the place, so they can enter whenever they want.
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Tenant myth

Rent increases in BC: once every 12 months, capped to the provincial maximum, 3 months' written notice on Form RTB-7. Anything more is unenforceable.

The landlord can raise the rent whenever they want, to match the market.
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Tenant myth

A sale doesn't end a tenancy. Tenancies transfer with the property. The new owner takes over on identical terms.

When the landlord sells the building, the tenancy ends and I have to move.
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Tenant myth

Security deposit: 15 days to return OR apply to RTB. Landlord who does neither owes you double the deposit. Normal wear isn't deductible.

The landlord can keep the security deposit for any damage.
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All documented myths