British Columbia rent increase guideline 2026 and 2027
The British Columbia rent increase guideline is 2.3% for 2026 and 2.2% for 2027. Here is what that means for renters, in plain language.
What this means
BC's annual limit applies to many existing tenancies covered by provincial tenancy law. Exceptions and approved additional increases exist. Check the Residential Tenancy Branch's rules for your situation. The age of the building does not affect it. Where it applies, your landlord must give 3 full months written notice and can raise the rent only once every 12 months.
Can my rent go up by more?
A landlord who wants more than the limit can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for an additional increase, for specific reasons. A landlord cannot simply charge more because the market went up.
Recent years
The British Columbia guideline is set each year, usually based on inflation. Recent rates:
| Year | Guideline |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 2.3% |
| 2025 | 3.0% |
| 2024 | 3.5% |
| 2023 | 2.0% |
| 2022 | 1.5% |
| 2021 | 0.0% |
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Check my rentOfficial source
For the rules that apply to your situation, check the government source directly: BC Residential Tenancy Branch rent increase rules.
Common questions
What is the British Columbia rent increase guideline for 2026?
The British Columbia rent increase guideline for 2026 is 2.3%. This is the most a landlord can raise the rent in a year under the standard rules.
What is the British Columbia rent increase guideline for 2027?
The British Columbia rent increase guideline for 2027 is 2.2%. It applies to increases that take effect on or after January 1, 2027. These rules are British Columbia rules only; other provinces set their own limits.
How much notice does a landlord need to give before raising rent?
In BC, a landlord must give at least 3 full months written notice, on the official form, and can only raise the rent once every 12 months.
Is this page legal advice?
No. FairRent shares general information to help renters understand the rules. For a specific situation or a dispute, contact your provincial tenant board or a licensed professional.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For a rent dispute, contact your provincial tenant board or a licensed paralegal.