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.

A landlord can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for an increase beyond the maximum allowable amount if:

• The rent for the rental unit is significantly lower than rent for similar units in the same geographic area.
• The landlord has completed significant, costly repairs or renovations as a result of unforeseen circumstances.
• The landlord has lost money due to an extraordinary increase in the property’s operating expenses.

• Since January 2016, there have been approximately 41 applications for additional rent increases - six have been filed so far this year. Out of the 41 applications, there have been 25 decisions (9 scheduled/pending, five cancelled, and two abandoned applications).

  Of the 25 decisions, 15 of which related to geographic area:

• Three were successful
• Three were partially successful (granted a rent increase, but not the full amount requested)
• Five resulted in extensive renovations and/or repairs
• One resulted in loss of operating expenses
• Three reached a settlements between the landlord and tenants prior to the hearing
• Neither party in attendance: one

A formal dispute resolution process is in place to ensure the rights of both tenants and landlords are protected.