B.C. caps allowable rent increase in 2024 at 3.5 per cent

The government of British Columbia has decided that landlords can only increase the rent on their properties by a maximum of 3.5 percent next year. This rate is lower than the general increase in the cost of living.

This decision might sound good for renters who are struggling to afford their homes due to rising expenses, but it's also causing difficulties for landlords.

David Hutniak, who heads a group representing about 3,300 property owners in B.C., explained that landlords are facing rising costs too. Things like insurance, utilities, and taxes have become much more expensive. He acknowledges the challenges renters are going through but points out that landlords have had very small or no rent increases since 2020.

Hutniak worries that because of these restrictions, many landlords are finding it hard to make ends meet and keep their properties in good condition. This isn't good for their businesses in the long run.

The government says that the 3.5% rent increase limit for 2024 is lower than the average inflation rate, which is about 5.6 percent. This rule applies to rent increases starting from January 1, 2024. Landlords can only raise the rent once a year and must give tenants three months' notice before doing so.

Premier David Eby explained that this decision aims to strike a balance between the needs of renters, who face increasing rent costs, and landlords, who might struggle with higher interest rates and consider selling their properties instead of renting them out.

In short, the government is trying to find a fair solution, but it's a tough challenge to satisfy both renters and landlords.