A landlord in British Columbia may end a tenancy if they intend to use the rental unit themselves or for certain qualifying family members. However, the landlord must genuinely intend to occupy the property. If the landlord evicts a tenant and then re-rents the property or does not move in as claimed, the eviction may be considered a bad faith eviction.
Under the Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia), tenants who are evicted in bad faith may be entitled to compensation of up to 12 months’ rent.
Examples of bad faith evictions include:
- The landlord re-rents the property shortly after the tenant moves out.
- The landlord never moves into the unit.
- The landlord renovates and rents the property at a higher price.
Tenants who suspect a bad faith eviction can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for compensation.