Owning a rental home in Greater Vancouver means coordinating maintenance without disrupting the tenant’s home unnecessarily. Before booking an inspection, contractor or showing, confirm how you will arrange lawful access. These basics apply to residential tenancies covered by B.C.’s Residential Tenancy Act.
What must a written entry notice include?
For the written-notice route, give notice at least 24 hours and no more than 30 days before entry. State the reasonable purpose, date and time. Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless the tenant agrees otherwise. See the Province’s landlord access guidance.
Use a specific purpose, such as checking a reported kitchen leak. Keep a copy and a record of delivery. Do not assume that sending a message starts the notice period immediately: permitted service methods and receipt rules matter. Check sections 88–90 of the Residential Tenancy Act before scheduling access.
Planning routine inspections
The Province says a landlord can inspect the rental’s condition once per month, following the access rules. That permission is not a requirement to inspect every month. Read its guidance on inspections during a tenancy.
As a practical management step, prepare a focused checklist and record maintenance needs and follow-up dates. Keep routine visits separate from the move-in and move-out reporting process; our B.C. condition-inspection checklist covers that topic.
Repairs and urgent access
A contractor appointment does not itself authorize entry. Arrange lawful access before confirming the work. Tenant permission given at entry or within the previous 30 days is another route under section 29.
Section 29 also permits entry where an emergency exists and access is necessary to protect life or property. A convenient appointment is not the same as an emergency. Other statutory exceptions exist; consult the Act rather than treating written notice as the only possible route.
Showings while the home is occupied
For sale showings, the Province explains the need for proper notice and says a text message cannot serve as the entry notice. The landlord or agent must be present; the tenant does not have to be present. See rental property showings and open houses.
As a practical courtesy, discuss workable times before arranging visitors. Respect tenant privacy and keep a clear record of the agreed schedule or notices.
Frequently asked questions
Does owning the property mean I can enter whenever I want?
No. Section 29 restricts entry, and section 28 protects the tenant’s quiet enjoyment.
Is a monthly inspection compulsory?
No. The Province describes permission to inspect monthly, subject to access requirements.
Can I use a text as the formal showing notice?
The Province’s showing guidance says no. Confirm an authorized delivery method and allow for receipt timing.
Want help managing your Greater Vancouver rental?
Explore Lift Realty Group’s property management services. Request a free rental assessment and include your property’s address, city and type so we can discuss your rental goals.
Legal information checked against the official sources linked above on October 1, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice or a lawyer’s review. Rules and their application can change; confirm current requirements with the Residential Tenancy Branch or a qualified legal professional for your situation.
