What Must Be Included in a Legally Valid Condition Inspection Report in BC?

In British Columbia, landlords are required to complete a Condition Inspection Report at both the beginning and end of a tenancy under the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) and Residential Tenancy Regulation (RTR). While most landlords use the official RTB Condition Inspection Report form, they may also use a custom version, provided it includes all the information mandated under Section 20 of the Residential Tenancy Regulation.

A condition inspection report is essential for documenting the state of the rental unit, protecting both landlords and tenants in case of disputes over damage or deposit deductions.

Required Contents of a Legally Valid Condition Inspection Report

Whether using the RTB form or a customized version, the report must include all of the following:

• Full legal names of the landlord and tenant (and agent, if applicable)

• Rental unit address

• Date the tenant is entitled to possession (for move-in inspections)

• Landlord’s address for service

• Date of the condition inspection

• Detailed condition assessment of each part of the unit, including but not limited to:

  • Entryway, living room, dining room, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms

  • Hallways, stairs, storage areas, basement/crawlspace

  • Exterior spaces like balconies, yards, and parking areas

• Assessment of included items, such as:

  • Appliances, furniture, fixtures, window and floor coverings

  • Electrical outlets, lighting, and any other tenancy-included items

• Space for comments, including:

  • Damage, maintenance needs, or wear and tear noted during inspection

  • Any agreement or disagreement by the tenant with the landlord’s assessments

• A mandatory declaration indicating whether the tenant agrees or disagrees with the report

• Signatures from both the landlord and tenant, confirming the accuracy of the report

Additional Requirements for Move-Out Inspections

At the end of the tenancy, the move-out inspection report must also include:

• A list of any tenant-caused damage

• If applicable and agreed upon:

  • Deductions from the security or pet damage deposit

  • Tenant’s signature and date confirming the agreed deduction(s)

Failing to conduct a move-in or move-out inspection can affect a landlord’s ability to claim deductions from the deposit.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords and tenants should consult the Residential Tenancy Branch or a legal professional to ensure compliance with the most current tenancy laws and regulations in British Columbia.