Question from Steve, Can a Landlord Increase Rent and Require a New Lease if a Co-Tenant Moves Out in Burnaby, BC?
Answer from AI:
In British Columbia, landlords and tenants are governed by the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA). This law sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties.
Rent Increase
Under the RTA, a landlord can only increase the rent once every 12 months and must provide the tenant with three full months’ notice in writing. The maximum allowable increase is set each year by the Residential Tenancy Branch. For 2022, the maximum allowable increase is 1.5%. If your landlord is proposing a 50% increase, this would likely be considered excessive under the RTA.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. If the landlord can prove that the rent is significantly lower than other similar rental units in the same geographic area, they may apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for an additional rent increase.
New Lease
If a co-tenant moves out, the remaining tenant and the landlord can agree to a new lease. However, the landlord cannot force the remaining tenant to sign a new lease with terms that are less favorable than the original lease.
Landlord’s Family Moving In
If the landlord or a close family member wants to move into the rental unit, the landlord must give the tenant two months’ notice to end the tenancy. The landlord must also pay the tenant one month’s rent as compensation.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and may not apply to every situation. If you’re facing a situation like this, it’s a good idea to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.
For more information, you can refer to the Residential Tenancies website or the Residential Tenancy Act.
- Review your lease agreement and the Residential Tenancy Act
- Communicate with your landlord about your concerns
- If necessary, seek legal advice
- Consider contacting the Residential Tenancy Branch for assistance
The answer is written by AI.
The text above is written by AI, i.e., a computer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this response is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate information, we make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or legal validity of the information presented. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and can change over time, and the application of laws can vary widely based on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified legal professional before making any decisions related to legal matters. Do not rely solely on the information provided in this response for any legal decisions. We disclaim any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this response.
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