2.3% for 2026: Navigating the New BC Rent Increase Cap
The BC Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) has set the maximum allowable rent increase for 2026 at 2.3%, down from 3.5% last year.
With the cost of living still a major topic in BC, both landlords and tenants need to be precise about the rules. A mistake in a rent increase notice can render the entire increase void.
The "Three Pillars" for 2026:
• The 12-Month Rule: You can only raise the rent once every 12 months.
• The 3-Month Notice: You must use the official RTB form and provide three full months of notice of a rent increase.
• The "Unit" Cap: The 2.3% applies to the unit, not the person. You cannot "round up" to the nearest ten dollars if it exceeds the percentage.
The Takeaway
For landlords, missing a deadline means losing a year of revenue. For tenants, knowing the cap prevents illegal overpayment. We provide the clarity needed to keep the landlord-tenant relationship professional and compliant.
This blog post provides general information and is not intended as legal advice. Laws change frequently, please contact DuMoulin Boskovich LLP for advice specific to your situation.
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