Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that was used extensively in construction from the 1950s to 1990s due to its low cost, resistance to fire and insulating properties. It is commonly used in spray-applied fireproofing, mechanical insulation, linoleum, floor tiles, drywall taping compound, vermiculite, cement board and tiles, cement pipes and textured decorative coating.

The Province updated the Residential Tenancy Act in 2004 after consulting with the public and added a provision for pet damage deposits to help encourage landlords to accept pets in their buildings and rental units.

For the 1.5 million British Columbians who own, live in or work in strata units, resolving strata claims is easier and more convenient thanks to a justice system that is accessible, and where disputes are resolved earlier and out of court.

The B.C. government is providing more than $203 million this year for more than 14,000 emergency shelter spaces, subsidized units and rent supplements to support people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness across British Columbia.

B.C.’s Residential Tenancy Act includes rules that all landlords must follow before ending a tenancy in order to demolish the rental unit or do extensive renovations or repairs. These rules protect tenants while still allowing building owners to maintain their buildings.

Landlords in B.C. can only increase the rent once a year by an amount permitted by law.  B.C.'s allowable rent increase is two per cent plus inflation annually. The allowable rent increase for 2017 is 3.7%. If a landlord wants to increase rent beyond the maximum allowable amount, then an application for an additional rent increase must be made to the Residential Tenancy Branch.

The B.C. government provides support to nearly 30,450 low-income families through a range of affordable housing options.

Last year, the B.C. government provided approximately $32 million to support affordable housing for more than 5,100 low-income individuals, seniors and families in Victoria.

Last year, the B.C. government provided over $207 million to support affordable housing for approximately 27,700 low-income individuals, seniors and families in Vancouver.