Repairs and Services When Renting
This page from JP Boyd on Family Law—and other pages from this Wikibook that discuss BC family law litigation topics—are under editorial review to provide more thorough, current, and practical guidance. Since 2020, procedures, forms, and laws have changed significantly. While gross inaccuracies have been corrected, some details may still be outdated. These pages were not included in the 2024 print edition, and have been highlighted in orange where they appear in the navigation menu on this website. |
Do make sure you have your landlord’s name, phone number, and address before you have a problem. Don’t expect to be reimbursed for repairs you do yourself unless your landlord agrees to it in writing.
Landlord and tenant responsibilities[edit]
The landlord’s responsibilities[edit]
The law says a landlord must keep a place healthy, safe and “suitable for occupation”. Your landlord has to make any repairs that are needed for your health and safety.
Your landlord is responsible for repairing:[edit]
- heating
- plumbing
- electricity
- locks
- walls, floors and ceilings (including water leaks or holes)
- fire doors and fire escapes
- intercoms
- elevators
Anything included in your rent must also be maintained. For example, your landlord is responsible for repairing:
- fridge and stove
- laundry facilities
- furniture included in your rent
- garages and storage sheds
If something needs to be repaired, tell your landlord right away even if the repair is not important to you. Do it in writing and keep a copy for yourself. If you don't tell your landlord about the problem and it gets worse, you could be held responsible.