Move-out inspection rules in BC: what landlords and tenants need to know
In British Columbia, move-out inspections are mandatory under the Residential Tenancy Act and are the primary mechanism for determining whether landlords can make lawful deductions from deposits.This guide covers B.C. tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].
In British Columbia, completing a move-out inspection is a legal requirement under the Residential Tenancy Act. It documents the unit's condition at the end of the tenancy and determines whether the landlord can make deductions from the security deposit.
Is a Move-Out Inspection Required?
Yes. Landlords must complete a Condition Inspection Report (Form RTB-27) at move-out, just as they must at move-in. If the landlord fails to complete the move-out inspection, they lose the right to claim any deductions from the security deposit or pet damage deposit for property damage, according to the BC government.
Who Must Be Present?
Both the landlord and the tenant should attend the move-out inspection together. The landlord must offer the tenant at least one reasonable opportunity to be present. If the tenant chooses not to attend, the landlord can proceed without them, but must still complete the report.
When Should the Inspection Take Place?
The move-out inspection should take place as close to the tenant's move-out date as possible, ideally on the last day of the tenancy once the tenant has removed all belongings and cleaned the unit.
What Must the Landlord Provide After the Inspection?
The landlord must provide the tenant with a copy of the completed move-out inspection report within 15 days of the end of the tenancy, according to the liv.rent rental inspection guide. This report, compared against the move-in report, forms the basis for any deposit claim.
What Can Be Claimed Against the Deposit?
A landlord can only claim against the deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, small nail holes, gradual carpet fading — cannot be deducted. Any claim must be supported by the move-out inspection report and, ideally, photographic evidence.
What Can Tenants Do if They Disagree With Deductions?
Tenants who dispute a landlord's deposit claim can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) for dispute resolution. The filing fee is $100, though this may be waived for financial hardship.
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