British Columbia · Landlord guide

How to Raise Rent in BC (2026)

British Columbia sets one rent-increase limit for the whole province each year. This guide covers the 2026 limit, how much notice to give, and the form to use, so your increase is legal and holds up if it is ever challenged at the Residential Tenancy Branch.

2026 limit

2.3%

The most you can raise rent in 12 months, with three full months' notice on Form RTB-7.

Calculate your exact increase

Step by step

1
Confirm the timing
Rent can be increased once every 12 months, and not in the first 12 months of a tenancy. Count 12 months from the tenancy start or the last increase.
2
Use the annual limit
BC sets one province-wide limit each year from the Consumer Price Index. For 2026 it is 2.3%. There is no exemption for new construction.
3
Calculate the increase
Multiply the current rent by the 2.3% limit. Use the free calculator for the exact amount and the new rent.
4
Complete Form RTB-7
Use the official Residential Tenancy Branch Notice of Rent Increase (Form RTB-7), stating the new rent and effective date.
5
Give three full months' notice
The tenant must receive the notice at least three full rental months (about 90 days) before the increase takes effect.
6
Keep a record
Save a copy of the notice and proof of how it was served, in case the increase is disputed at the RTB.

Worked example

A unit at $2,000/mo: $2,000 × 2.3% = $46, so the maximum new rent is $2,046/mo. Serve Form RTB-7 at least three full months before the effective date.

Common mistakes to avoid

Raising rent more than once in a 12-month period.
Giving less than three full months' notice.
Charging more than the 2.3% limit without an RTB-approved additional increase.
Assuming new buildings are exempt — BC has no new-construction exemption.
Using an unofficial notice instead of Form RTB-7.

Frequently asked questions

How much can a landlord raise rent in BC in 2026?

British Columbia's 2026 maximum allowable rent increase is 2.3%. That is the most you can raise rent in a 12-month period without applying to the Residential Tenancy Branch.

How much notice is required to raise rent in BC?

At least three full rental months (about 90 days) before the effective date, using the official Form RTB-7.

How often can rent be increased in BC?

Once every 12 months, and not during a tenant's first 12 months in the unit.

Are new buildings exempt from the limit in BC?

No. Unlike some provinces, British Columbia has no new-construction exemption. The annual limit applies to most units.

Can I raise rent by more than 2.3%?

Only with an additional rent increase approved by the Residential Tenancy Branch in limited circumstances, such as eligible capital expenditures.

Handle rent increases the easy way

Automanagement tracks the limit, generates the right notice, and keeps you compliant across every province. Built for Canadian landlords.

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Guidance for BC landlords, not legal advice. Confirm the current figure and rules with the BC Residential Tenancy Branch before serving a notice. Limit verified 2026-09-25.