How do I write a notice to end a tenancy?

Below I’ll lay out some of the most common scenarios and how to go about issuing a notice to end tenancy in British Columbia.

For the most up-to-date information, read Everything You Need to Know About the 4 Month Notice to End Tenancy in BC

1) 3-Month Notice to End Tenancy for Landlord or Purchaser Use of Property

If you or an eligible family member intend to move into the property, or a purchaser requires vacant possession for an approved reason, you must use the official Residential Tenancy Branch notice form.

A few important things to remember:

• The tenant is entitled to one month’s rent as compensation.
• Landlords must provide the required 3 months’ notice using the correct RTB form.
• The notice must be served legally according to the Residential Tenancy Act.
• The landlord (or eligible family member) must occupy the property in good faith for the minimum period required under the Act.
• If the notice is issued in bad faith, tenants may be entitled to significant compensation through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Because these rules have changed over the past few years, landlords should always use the latest RTB forms and review the current government guidance before serving notice.

2) 10-Day Notice to End Tenancy for Non-Payment of Rent (Standard 10 Day Notice Form)

This remains one of the most commonly issued notices in British Columbia.

If rent is not paid on the due date, landlords should generally issue the official 10-Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent or Utilities promptly.

Many landlords wait because the tenant promises to pay in a few days. Unfortunately, delays often create larger problems if payment never arrives.

Important points:

• Use the official RTB form.
• Serve the notice legally.
• A tenant has 5 days after receiving the notice to pay the outstanding rent in full or dispute the notice.
• If the tenant neither pays nor disputes within that period, the tenancy ends and the landlord may apply for an Order of Possession through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

The BC Government does a great job supplying resources for this information. Visit the following link and read through:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/ending-a-tenancy/landlord-notice/10-day-notice

3) One-Month Notice to End Tenancy for Cause (Standard 30 Day Notice Form)

A One-Month Notice is appropriate when a tenant has seriously breached the tenancy agreement or repeatedly failed to meet their obligations.

Examples include:

• Repeated late rent payments
• Significant disturbances or excessive noise
• Unauthorized occupants
• Damage to the property
• Illegal activity
• Other breaches permitted under the Residential Tenancy Act

Before issuing this notice, consider whether the issue can be resolved through communication or a written warning.

If the behaviour continues, the One-Month Notice may be appropriate.

As with every eviction notice:

• Use the official RTB form.
• Follow legal service requirements.
• Keep documentation supporting your reasons in case the tenant files a dispute.

The BC Government does a great job supplying resources for this information. Visit the following link and read through:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/ending-a-tenancy/landlord-notice/one-month-notice

Always Use the Correct RTB Forms

Every eviction notice in British Columbia has specific legal requirements. Using the wrong form, serving it incorrectly, or failing to meet the Residential Tenancy Act requirements may invalidate your notice.

Before ending a tenancy, review the latest Residential Tenancy Branch guidance or speak with an experienced property manager to ensure you are following the current legislation.