Recent Changes To The Strata Property Act That Will Free Up Units In Stratas That Previously Forbade Renting

On November 24, the Strata Statutes Amendment Act, 2022 received royal assent at the BC Legislature and became effective immediately. The changes to the Act were championed by the newly sworn in Premier David Eby (in his campaign leading up to his election), and immediately prevent the enforcement of certain existing bylaws restricting rentals and age.

“It is simply unacceptable that in British Columbia someone is searching for a home to rent on Craigslist and can’t find one, while someone who owns a condo is not permitted to rent to that individual,” Eby said. He added “We need to bring these homes onto the market for British Columbians to rent.”

Previously, strata corporations could restrict or prohibit the rental of strata lots. With the new amendments, the strata corporation will not be able to “screen tenants, establish screening criteria, require the approval of tenants, require the insertion of terms in tenancy agreements or otherwise restrict the rental of a strata lot.” The strata corporation is prohibited from passing bylaws that impose age restrictions, so that residents who have children will not need to move due to stratas forbidding residents under 19.

In a move to protect seniors’ communities, the strata corporation may require residents to be at least 55 years of age, so the “55 and over” rule in strata housing will stay. Laws restricting short-term rentals such as Airbnb, will continue to be allowed.

In the case of renters who present problems, the new rules allow a strata corporation to issue eviction notices in place of the landlords and also apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for dispute resolution in place of the landlord.

This is an important step in responding to the shortage of rental units the province is facing, and the government continues to address housing affordability and availability for the residents of this province. It is estimated that at least 300,000 units will be affected by this new legislation.

Many tenants are more comfortable renting from a property management company such as ours. We are experienced in showing homes to potential clients, setting up viewings and negotiating the right rental for your home. Contact us by email or call us on 604 913 1000 and one of our property management experts will be available to help.