New Tenant Protection Legislation Effective July 18, 2024

On July 3, 2024, the Provincial Government announced important changes to tenant protection laws, which will come into effect on July 18, 2024. These updates, under Bill 14, the Tenancy Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, aim to safeguard residential tenants and ensure fair practices when ending tenancies.

Key Changes You Need to Know:

1. Mandatory Web Portal for Notices:

   • Landlords must now use a new online portal to issue Notices to End Tenancy for personal or caretaker use. Access requires a Basic BCeID, and landlords must provide details about new occupants. This information will be shared with current tenants.
   • The portal will also guide landlords on the conditions for ending tenancies and outline penalties for bad faith terminations. Compensation details for tenants will also be provided.

2. Extended Notice Period:

   • The notice period for ending a tenancy will increase from two months to four months starting July 18, 2024.
   • Tenants will have 30 days to dispute a Notice to End Tenancy, up from the previous 15 days.

3. Occupancy Requirements:

   • New occupants must live in the property for at least 12 months. Landlords who are found to end tenancies in bad faith may be required to compensate the displaced tenant with 12 months’ rent.