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Can renters not pay rent?

Published Oct 29, 2026

Your landlord won’t fix something, or you’ve had a dispute, and you’re wondering: can renters not pay rent? In BC, the answer is almost always no. Tenants must pay rent even when there’s an ongoing problem with the landlord. But there are five specific cases where you can legally pay less. Here’s what they are, and what happens if you withhold rent without the right to.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t make repairs?

No, not for regular repairs. Withholding rent because a repair isn’t done can lead to an eviction notice for unpaid rent. Instead:

  1. Ask for the repair in writing and keep a copy.
  2. Follow up in writing if nothing happens.
  3. If the landlord still doesn’t fix it, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for dispute resolution. You can ask for an order for the repairs and for compensation.

You need your landlord’s written agreement before you do regular repairs yourself and charge them for it.

The five cases where you can legally pay less rent in BC

According to TRAC, you can withhold or deduct rent without your landlord’s permission only if you:

  1. Overpaid a deposit: the landlord took more than the legal maximum for a security or pet damage deposit.
  2. Paid for emergency repairs after following the required steps (see below).
  3. Overpaid because of an illegal rent increase. Check your notice with our rent increase checker.
  4. Got an eviction notice for the landlord’s use of the property and are using the compensation the law gives you toward your last month’s rent.
  5. Have an RTB order allowing you to withhold or reduce rent.

Emergency repairs: the steps you must follow

An emergency repair is urgent, needed for health or safety, and about things like major leaks, blocked or broken water or sewer pipes, the main heating system, broken locks on the unit, or the electrical system. To deduct the cost:

  1. Report the emergency to your landlord or their emergency contact.
  2. If they don’t respond, phone the emergency number twice and wait a reasonable time.
  3. Have the repair done at a reasonable cost.
  4. Give the landlord all receipts and a written summary and ask to be paid back.
  5. Only if they don’t pay you back can you deduct the cost from your rent. Include a note explaining why you paid less.

What happens if I don’t pay rent?

  • Your landlord can give you a 10-day notice to end tenancy, even if you’re one day late or short by any amount.
  • You have five days to cancel that notice by paying the full rent.
  • Being late at least three times can lead to a one-month notice to end your tenancy.

If you’re struggling to pay, talk to your landlord early and get any agreement in writing. TRAC can explain your options.

More for BC renters

This is legal information, not legal advice. For help with your situation, contact TRAC or the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Sources, checked Oct 29, 2026

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