Rental notice periods in BC: what landlords and tenants need to know
British Columbia notice periods depend on the type of tenancy and reason for ending it, with strict RTB requirements for landlords.This guide covers B.C. tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].
In British Columbia, notice periods for ending a tenancy are set out under the Residential Tenancy Act. The amount of notice required depends on who is giving it and the reason for ending the tenancy.
Notice From a Tenant: Ending a Month-to-Month Tenancy
To end a month-to-month tenancy, tenants must give the landlord at least one full month's written notice before the last day of the rental period. For example, to move out on July 31, the notice must be given on or before June 30.
Notice From a Tenant: Fixed-Term Tenancy
Tenants in a fixed-term tenancy are not required to give notice if they are leaving at the end of the agreed term. However, it is good practice to advise the landlord in advance. If a tenant wants to leave before the end of the fixed term, different rules apply. See our guide on [how to break a lease in BC].
Notice From a Landlord: Personal or Family Use
A landlord who needs the unit for personal or family use must give the tenant at least two months' written notice using the official RTB form. If the landlord is a new owner who intends to occupy the unit, the same two-month notice applies. If the eviction is for the landlord's own use, the tenant is entitled to one month's rent as compensation. Note: a notice to end tenancy for a landlord's own use now requires three months' notice when served after June 18, 2025, according to the BC government.
Notice From a Landlord: Unpaid Rent
A landlord can give a tenant a 10-day notice to end tenancy for unpaid rent. If the tenant pays the full amount owed within five days, the notice is cancelled.
Notice From a Landlord: Cause
For breaches of the tenancy agreement or the Residential Tenancy Act, a landlord can give one month's written notice. Tenants have 10 days to dispute this notice through the RTB.
What Form of Notice Is Required?
All notices must be in writing. The RTB provides official forms for both landlords and tenants to use. Using the correct form helps avoid disputes about whether valid notice was given.
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