BC security deposit rules, explained
Updated June 5, 2026 · British Columbia, Canada
Deposits cause more BC tenancy disputes than almost anything else. The rules are actually simple — caps, paperwork, and one critical 15-day deadline.
The caps
- Security deposit: maximum half of one month’s rent
- Pet damage deposit: maximum half of one month’s rent, no matter how many pets
- That’s it. Key money, “application fees,” or extra damage deposits beyond these caps aren’t allowed for standard residential tenancies.
A landlord cannot ask for the deposit before the tenancy agreement is entered into, and if a tenant doesn’t pay a required deposit within 30 days of when it’s due, the landlord may end the tenancy.
The 15-day rule
After the tenancy ends and the tenant gives a forwarding address in writing, the landlord has 15 days to either:
- Return the deposit(s) plus any interest owed, or
- Get the tenant’s written agreement to deductions, or
- Apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for dispute resolution to claim against it.
Miss the deadline and do none of these? The landlord can be ordered to pay the tenant double the deposit. This is the single most expensive mistake BC landlords make.
Inspections protect everyone
The right to claim against a deposit is tied to the condition inspection report. A landlord who doesn’t complete proper move-in and move-out inspections can lose the right to claim against the deposit for damage — and a tenant who refuses to participate can lose the right to its return.
Official resources
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in BC?
Half of one month's rent. A pet damage deposit is also capped at half a month's rent, regardless of the number of pets.
When must a BC landlord return the deposit?
Within 15 days of the tenancy ending and receiving the tenant's forwarding address in writing — unless the tenant agrees in writing to deductions, or the landlord applies for dispute resolution to keep it.
What happens if the landlord misses the 15-day deadline?
The landlord may owe the tenant double the deposit. Tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch to recover it.
Can a landlord deduct cleaning or damage from the deposit?
Only with the tenant's written agreement or an order from the Residential Tenancy Branch — and only if move-in and move-out inspections were properly completed.