Important Update:
Selling Tenant-Occupied Properties

On July 3, 2024, the Provincial Government announced significant changes that came into effect July 18, 2024, to protect residential tenants from ending tenancies in bad faith. Under the Residential Tenancy Act, a landlord can end a tenancy for personal or caretaker use.

As you navigate the complexities of selling tenant-occupied properties, it’s crucial to be aware of the latest regulations, including Bill 14 Tenancy Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, and best practices to ensure compliance and protect all parties involved. Here are the key points you need to know.
 
Key Changes Effective July 18, 2024

1. Mandatory Use of Landlord Use of New Web Portal:
   • Landlords must use this portal to generate Notices to End Tenancy for personal or caretaker use.
   • Landlords using the website portal will be required to have a Basic BCeID to access the site.
   • The portal will require landlords to provide details about the persons moving into the home. The details of the new occupant of the home will be shared with the tenant.
   • While using the website portal, landlords will be given information about the required conditions for ending a tenancy and the penalties associated with ending the tenancy in bad faith.
   • They will also be informed about the amount of compensation they will be required to issue to tenants when ending a tenancy.
2. Extended Notice Period:
   • The Two-Month Notice is changing to a Four-Month Notice on July 18, 2024.
   • Tenants will have 30 days to dispute Notices to End Tenancy, extended from 15 days.
3. Occupancy Requirements:
   • The individual moving into the property must occupy it for at least 12 months.
   • Landlords found to be ending a tenancy in bad faith could be ordered to pay the displaced tenant 12 months’ rent.