Rent Increase Rules in British Columbia
The 2026 and 2027 caps, the 3-full-months notice requirement, and the form your landlord must use.
Last updated: October 2026
The 2026 and 2027 Rent Increase Caps: 2.3% and 2.2%
British Columbia sets an annual maximum percentage that rent can be increased. For 2026, that cap is 2.3%, under Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) section 42. For 2027, the province has set it at 2.2%, effective January 1, 2027.
3 Full Months' Notice, Not 90 Days
A landlord must give at least three full months' notice before a rent increase takes effect. This is worth stating precisely: it is "three full months," not a flat 90-day count, and the two are close but not identical. The notice must be given using Form RTB-7 (Notice of Rent Increase – Residential Rental Units), which must state the exact dollar increase and the effective date.
Once Every 12 Months, Per Unit
Rent can be raised at most once every 12 months per unit under RTA section 42. A landlord cannot increase your rent again before a full 12 months has passed since your last increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BC's rent increase cap for 2026 and 2027?
2.3% for 2026 and 2.2% for 2027 (effective January 1, 2027). This is the maximum annual rent increase under the Residential Tenancy Act.
How much notice must a BC landlord give before raising rent?
At least three full months' written notice, using Form RTB-7, which must state the exact dollar increase and effective date.
How often can a BC landlord raise the rent?
At most once every 12 months per unit, under section 42 of the Residential Tenancy Act.
Sources
Know Your Rights. Find a Better Rental.
SQRFT listings are verified and transparent. Browse properties from landlords who follow the rules.
Browse Verified Listings