The Most Common Eviction Notices for Tenancy Agreements
The Most Common Eviction Notices for Tenancy Agreements
The most updated changes to the Rental market regarding the ending of tenancy agreements. The government of British Columbia announced new policies and clarified the different types of evictions under the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA). These changes aim to improve transparency, support tenants’ rights, and outline the responsibilities of landlords. Understanding the types of evictions can help us better navigate the proper procedure so both parties can end their agreement in a satisfactory manner.
Here are the most common types of Evictions
1. Non-Payment of Rent
One of the most common reasons for eviction is the non-payment of rent. If a tenant fails to pay rent in full by the due date, the landlord can issue a 10-Day Notice to End the Tenancy. The tenant then has five days to pay the outstanding rent to avoid eviction. If payment is made within this period, the notice is canceled. However, if the tenant does not pay or dispute the notice, the eviction process can proceed after 10 days.
2. Breach of Agreement
If a tenant violates the terms of the lease agreement —such as subletting the property without permission, causing significant damage, or engaging in illegal activities—the landlord may issue a notice to end the tenancy. The notice period varies depending on the severity of the breach. For example, illegal activity or severe property damage may lead to a 1-Month Notice to End Tenancy, while other violations may have more extended notice periods.
3. Landlord’s Use of Property
The landlord has the right to evict tenants if they or an immediate family member needs the property for personal use, such as moving in themselves. This type of eviction requires a **4-Month Notice to End Tenancy**. If a landlord wants to end a tenancy for landlord occupation of the rental unit, they must generate a Four Month Notice to End Tenancy for Landlord’s Use of Property – form RTB-32L using the Residential Tenancy Branch’s web portal.
4. Landlord’s Intention to Demolish / Demolish or Renovate the Unit
Another scenario under this category is when the landlord intends to demolish, renovate, or convert the rental unit. This type of eviction also requires a 4-Month Notice, and the tenant has the right to compensation equal to one month’s rent. This policy aims to protect tenants from “renovictions”—landlords exploit renovations to increase rents or remove tenants unfairly.
5. Purchaser Occupancy of the Unit
When the landlord has reached an agreement to sell the unit and all the conditions have been met, the purchaser will require the landlord to end the tenancy because the purchaser or their close family intends to live in the unit. The landlord must generate a Three Month Notice to End Tenancy for Purchaser’s Use of Property – form RTB-32P using the Residential Tenancy Branch’s web portal.
6. Converting Unit for use by Caretaker
If the landlord needs to convert the space for a live-in caretaker, then the tenant can end the tenancy as long as the city approves the permit. Tenant is to receive an amount equal to 1 month’s rent compensation. To provide notice to end tenancy, the landlord needs to generate a Four Month Notice to End Tenancy for Caretaker Use – RTB-29C using the Residential Tenancy Branch’s web portal
Tenant’s Rights During Eviction
Under BC’s updated eviction policies, tenants can dispute an eviction notice through the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). Disputes must be filed within a specific period, usually a minimum of 21 to 30 days after receiving the notice, depending on the type of eviction.
British Columbia’s government has taken steps to clarify and protect the rights of both tenants and landlords in eviction processes. The updated regulations ensure that tenants have fair warning and recourse in most cases while allowing landlords to maintain control over their properties for personal or legitimate business reasons. Both parties must familiarize themselves with their rights and responsibilities to navigate tenancy changes smoothly.
