The BC Government is capping the allowable rent increase in 2026 to 2.3 per cent, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Christine Boyle announced on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
That’s a decrease from the three per cent cap in place for 2025.
In a media release, the government said that as the maximum allowable rent increase cannot take place before Jan. 1, 2026, this gives landlords time to issues their tenants with the required three months’ notice if they want to implement an increase.
The government also noted that 2026 will be the second year that the maximum rent increase will be tied to the consumer price index, an estimate of the inflation experienced by individuals and households.
The rent increase maximum does not apply to commercial tenancies, non-profit tenancies where rent is tied to income, co-operative housing and some assisted living facilities.
Despite the cap, landlords can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to exceed the increase limit. However, this incurs a $300 application fees plus and additional $10 for each rental unit up to a maximum of $600.
If a landlord makes such an application, the tenant or tenants have the opportunity to present evidence and speak during a hearing before the branch.
"BC is an extraordinary place, but with economic uncertainty and rising costs, people are struggling to find a place to live that fits in their budget," Boyle said in the release.
"We're continuing to cap rent increases, linking them to inflation, to reduce housing costs for seniors, families and individuals, protecting them from unfair hikes. At the same time, this rent increase allows landlords to invest in their properties to keep rental homes on the market."
