What can a landlord ask for on a rental application in BC?

This guide covers B.C. tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].

In British Columbia, what a landlord can ask for on a rental application is shaped by the Residential Tenancy Act and the BC Human Rights Code. Landlords have a legitimate interest in assessing whether an applicant can pay rent and maintain the unit, but privacy and anti-discrimination rules limit what they can request.

What Can a Landlord Ask For?

Landlords in B.C. can ask for information that reasonably helps them assess a potential tenant's suitability. This typically includes full name and contact information, current and previous addresses and rental history, proof of income or employment, references from previous landlords or employers, and consent to run a credit check, according to tenantrights.ca.

Landlords may also ask for photo ID to verify identity, though they should not retain copies of sensitive documents such as a driver's licence. They may ask about the number of occupants who will live in the unit.

What Cannot a Landlord Ask For?

Landlords cannot ask for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Providing a SIN is not legally required for a rental application. Landlords also cannot ask questions that touch on protected grounds under the BC Human Rights Code, including race, religion, ancestry, place of origin, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Full bank account numbers are not required, though proof of income is acceptable.

Can a Landlord Refuse an Application?

Yes. Landlords can decline an application based on legitimate criteria such as insufficient income, poor credit history, or negative references. However, a landlord cannot refuse an application based on any protected ground under the BC Human Rights Code. Discrimination in housing, including during the application process, can be reported to the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

Can a Landlord Charge an Application Fee?

No. Application fees are not permitted in B.C. A landlord cannot charge a fee simply for considering a rental application.

What Can Tenants Do if Asked Improper Questions?

Tenants can decline to answer questions that are not legally required or that touch on protected grounds. If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you, you can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

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