BC Rent Increase - 2026 Update

The B.C. government has announced that the maximum allowable rent increase for 2026 will be 2.3%, a slight reduction from the 3% permitted in 2025. The figure is tied to the consumer price index, with the aim of keeping rent increases predictable for tenants while giving landlords limited room to adjust for rising costs.

For landlords, the rules remain strict: they must give at least three months’ written notice before applying any increase, and they can only raise the rent once in any 12‑month period. Attempting to apply a higher increase, or giving insufficient notice, can leave an increase unenforceable.

For tenants, it’s important to understand both your obligations and your rights. A valid rent increase must follow the formula and notice requirements set out by the Residential Tenancy Act. If you receive a notice that doesn’t line up—for example, one that exceeds the cap, arrives without proper notice, or is applied more than once a year—you have the right to challenge it.

Rent increases often seem straightforward, but the details matter. Whether you’re a tenant questioning a notice, or a landlord unsure if you’ve calculated things correctly, Bright Law can provide clear advice and representation. Understanding these rules early can prevent unnecessary disputes later on.