Difference between revisions of "Renting a Home"

When you rent a place to live, you are a renter, also known as a '''tenant'''. If you own a home or apartment and you rent it to someone else, you are a '''landlord'''.  

   

===The laws in play===

===There are supports available===

TRAC has an online course for first-time tenants at [https://rentingitright.ca/ rentingitright.ca]. In it, you’ll learn how to search for housing, put together a strong rental application, and safely sign a contract about your tenancy with the landlord.  

==Looking for a place==

When you find a suitable place to rent, you and the landlord make a contract. This is a binding legal agreement. A contract between a tenant and landlord is called a '''tenancy agreement'''.

The agreement will say how much the rent is and when you must pay it. The agreement should also include what the law says about such things as '''security deposits''', rent increases, and repairs.  

As well, the landlord must use a special form called '''notice of rent increase'''. And they must give you this notice three full months before they can increase the rent.  

===Repairs===

If something needs to be fixed, ask your landlord to make the repairs. It’s a good idea to do this in writing and keep a copy of the letter.  

Another option may be to contact your municipality. Many towns and cities have rules (or '''bylaws''') about keeping rental suites safe and healthy. You can contact your local city hall to ask them about these rules. They may be able to send an '''inspector'''. An inspector can check your place for free and tell the landlord to do the repairs.  

Either you or the landlord can apply for dispute resolution. The process involves a hearing — like a court hearing, but less formal. It’s usually held by teleconference. An independent decision-maker makes a decision in your situation based on the law. You need to have evidence in support of your claims. You and the landlord must follow the decision.  

==Ending a tenancy==

You may disagree with the reason the landlord is evicting you. For example, you don’t think you’re too noisy, or you don’t have too many people living in your place. If you want to try to stop an eviction, you can '''dispute''' the notice. You can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch to ask an arbitrator to decide. The eviction form will say how much time you have to do that.  

===Getting your security deposit back===

To complete the sale, you need to prepare documents that transfer legal ownership from the seller to you. Most people hire a lawyer or notary public to help with this. Your real estate agent may be able to suggest one for you. Or you can search online or in your local phone book.  

===Owning a home and bylaws===

When you own your home, many laws that come into play are made by your city or town. These are called '''bylaws'''. They deal with safety and health issues and allowable uses of the property. They set out rules for things like fences, trees, noise, parking, and pets.  

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