RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: British Columbia

What is an RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit?

This form is a formal notice from a landlord to a tenant. It ends a residential tenancy with two months’ notice because the tenant no longer qualifies for a subsidized rental unit. It is an official notice used under British Columbia’s residential tenancy laws. It applies only to subsidized rental housing. It does not apply to market rent units.

“Subsidized rental unit” means the rent is discounted based on eligibility rules. Those rules are set by the housing program or provider. Rules often include income thresholds, household size, age, disability status, or other criteria. Providers may be non‑profit organizations or public bodies. They operate under program policies and must confirm eligibility on a regular cycle.

Who typically uses this form?

Housing providers and their property managers use it. These users operate subsidized units and must follow program criteria. You would use it when a tenant no longer meets those criteria. You may also be a lawyer or housing administrator preparing the notice. If you are a tenant, you may see this form if your provider says you no longer qualify.

Why would you need this form?

You need it to end a tenancy in a subsidized unit on this specific ground. You cannot use another generic two‑month notice form for this reason. You must use the official form that fits the ground. This helps ensure the notice is valid. It also ensures the tenant understands the reason and their rights. The form creates a clear record. It shows when the service occurred and when the tenancy ends.

Typical usage scenarios

A tenant’s income rises above the program limit. A household member moves out, changing eligibility. A tenant fails to provide the required income proof after reminders. A tenant’s age no longer meets the program rules for that building. A tenant no longer needs the subsidy, based on verified information. In each case, you confirm the loss of eligibility and then issue the notice. You set an effective date at least two months after service.

The notice does not accuse the tenant of wrongdoing. It is not about rent arrears or misconduct. It is about program eligibility. It also does not address major renovations or landlord occupation. Those use different grounds and different forms. The RTB-32Q fits only when the specific reason is loss of subsidy eligibility.

When Would You Use an RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for a Subsidized Rental Unit?

Use this form when a subsidized housing tenant no longer meets the program’s criteria. You should confirm the facts before issuing the notice. Review the program policy and your file. Check that you requested updated documentation. Check that you gave a fair time to respond. Make sure you recorded the results.

Here are practical examples. A single tenant earns $58,000, and the income cap is $52,000. You have the income verification from the last review. You emailed and mailed requests and got no new documents. You confirm the tenant exceeds the cap. You prepare the RTB-32Q and give two months’ notice. Or consider a seniors’ building where eligibility is age 55+. The tenant turns 55 midway through the year but does not meet a temporary exemption. You confirm the rules do not allow continued subsidy. You issue the notice.

Another common example is a change in household size. The program funds two-bedroom units for families with two children. One child moves out. The family no longer qualifies for that size unit or subsidy level. If your policy does not allow a continued subsidy in that unit, you may issue the notice. You may also offer a market unit or a smaller subsidized unit if available. That is optional under tenancy law, but it may be a program requirement. Check your policies.

Do not use this form for market tenancies. Use the correct notice only for subsidized housing. Do not use it for unpaid rent, poor conduct, or illegal activity. Those require other notices under different grounds. Also, do not use it for demolition, conversion, or major repairs. Those require four months’ notice and a different form.

You can use this notice during a periodic tenancy. You can also use it during a fixed term. The notice can end a fixed term early if the ground applies. You must still give the full two months. You must also select the proper effective date. Align the date with the end of a rental period when possible. If you are unsure, select the day before the monthly rent due date.

Typical users include non‑profit housing societies, Indigenous housing providers, and public agencies. Property managers who act for those providers also use it. In some cases, private landlords who operate subsidized units may use it. Tenants use the form only to understand what they received. They do not complete it. Tenants can respond or dispute through the dispute resolution process.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

This notice is legally binding if it is valid. To be valid, it must meet several requirements. You must use the correct ground. The unit must be a subsidized rental unit. The tenant must no longer qualify. You must state the reason and provide enough detail. You must calculate the effective date correctly. You must serve the notice using an approved method.

What ensures enforceability? First, the form itself is an approved notice format. Second, the rules for service are clear. Third, there is a defined dispute process. The tenant can apply to dispute the notice within a set time. For two‑month notices, the tenant typically has 15 days to apply. If the tenant does not apply in time, the notice stands. If they do apply, an arbitrator will decide if the notice is valid. You will need to show evidence that the tenant no longer qualifies. Keep your records organized.

Compensation rules differ by ground. Many two‑month notices require one month’s rent as compensation. That requirement does not apply to this subsidized eligibility ground. Review your housing program agreements as well. Some programs require you to offer alternatives or support. Those are program duties, not tenancy law requirements. Tenancy law focuses on proper notice, dates, and service.

Bad‑faith use of a notice can lead to penalties. Do not issue this notice unless the ground is real and supported. An arbitrator can cancel the notice and may award the tenant money. The Branch can also impose administrative penalties for non‑compliance. Tenants can claim moving costs or loss if they used the wrong ground. Keep records to show you acted in good faith.

You must respect privacy laws when handling personal information. Limit what you include in the notice to what is necessary. You can describe the reason using non‑sensitive terms. Attach sensitive documents only if required later in a dispute. Securely store all eligibility documents. Limit access to staff who need to know.

You must also consider human rights obligations. If a tenant’s change is linked to a protected ground, consider accommodation. For example, disability or family status may affect income or household size. Assess whether you can accommodate without undue hardship. You should document your assessment. If accommodation would allow continued eligibility, do not issue the notice. If not, note your reasons and proceed with care.

Finally, do not remove or lock out a tenant yourself. Even with a valid notice, you cannot change locks or seize property. If the tenant does not leave, you must apply for an Order of Possession. If granted, you may then proceed with a court bailiff. Follow each step in order.

How to Fill Out an RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

Follow these steps. Prepare your documents. Complete the form. Serve it properly. Keep proof of service. Here is a detailed checklist.

1) Confirm the ground and gather evidence

• Review the program policy that defines eligibility.
• Confirm the tenant no longer qualifies.
• Collect supporting records. Examples include income assessments, letters, and recertification requests.
• Note important dates. Include the last rent due date and the date you plan to serve the notice.
• If relevant, confirm that you considered accommodation. Record your analysis.

2) Identify the parties

• Enter the landlord’s legal name. Use the non‑profit or agency name, not an individual, if that is correct.
• Include the landlord’s mailing address, phone, and email.
• Enter each tenant’s full legal name as shown on the tenancy agreement. List all tenants on the agreement.
• If there are occupants who are not tenants, do not list them as tenants.

3) Describe the rental unit

• Enter the civic address of the unit. Include unit number, street, city, and postal code.
• Confirm the tenancy type. Indicate month‑to‑month or fixed term.
• Note the rent due date each month. This helps you pick a proper, effective date.

4) Select the reason for notice

• Check the option that states the tenant does not qualify for the subsidized rental unit.
• Ensure you are not also checking unrelated reasons. Use only the relevant ground.
• Prepare a brief description of the reason. Keep it factual and neutral.

5) Write the detailed explanation

• Use a short, clear explanation. State the criteria and how the tenant no longer meets it.
• Example: “Based on your 2024 income review, your household income exceeds the program limit.”
• Or: “Household composition changed on March 2, 2025. The unit no longer matches program criteria.”
• Do not include full financial details if not needed. You can provide those later if asked.

6) Set the effective date

• The effective date must be at least two full months after service.
• Align the date with the end of a rental period. For monthly tenancies, use the day before rent is due.
• Example: If rent is due on the 1st and you personally serve on April 10, the earliest effective date is June 30.
• Adjust for the method of service. If you post on the door, add three days before counting two full months. If you mail, add five days. For email, use same‑day if the tenant consented in writing to email service.
• Write the effective date on the form. Double‑check your math.

7) Confirm compensation (if the form asks)

• For this reason, one month’s compensation is not required under the tenancy law.
• If your program requires any support or offers, handle that outside the form.
• Do not promise compensation unless your policy requires it.

8) Sign and date the form

• The landlord or authorized agent must sign and date the form.
• Print the signer’s name and title. Include contact information.
• Ensure the signature date is on or before the service date.

9) Complete the service section

• Select an approved service method. Options often include personal service, leaving with an adult at the site, posting on the door, mailing, or emailing (with prior consent).
• Enter the service date and method on the form.
• Keep proof. For personal service, keep a service log. For posting, take a photo with the date and time. For mail, keep the mailing receipt. For email, save the sent email and consent.

10) Make copies and serve

• Make a copy for each tenant. If there are two tenants, serve each tenant.
• Serve the notice using your chosen method. Follow the rules for delivery locations.
• Never slip the notice under a door if that is not an approved method for you. Posting on the door is different and allowed with specific timelines.

11) Record the timeline and next steps

• Note the deemed receipt date based on your service method.
• Calculate the tenant’s deadline to dispute. For a two‑month notice, the tenant generally has 15 days from receipt to apply to dispute resolution.
• Calendar the effective date and the day after. If the tenant has not vacated, be ready to apply for an Order of Possession.

12) Prepare for a possible dispute

• Organize your evidence. Include the policy, correspondence, and records of reviews.
• Prepare a short summary that explains the loss of eligibility.
• Be ready to explain how you calculated dates and why the service was valid.
• If you consider accommodation, bring notes. This shows good faith.

Example timeline

• Rent is due on the 1st of each month.
• You personally served the tenant on May 12.
• Deemed receipt is May 12 (personal service).
• Two full months from receipt are June and July.
• The effective date should be July 31 (the day before rent is next due).
• The tenant has until May 27 to file a dispute (15 days after receipt).
• If no dispute is filed, the notice stands. If the tenant has not moved by August 1, you apply for an Order of Possession.

Another timeline with posting on the door

• Rent is due on the 1st.
• You post the notice on May 12 and take a photo.
• Deemed receipt is May 15 (three days later).
• Two full months from receipt are June and July.
• Effective date is July 31. If you had selected June 30 by mistake, the notice would be invalid. Always add the deemed receipt days first.

Drafting tips to avoid mistakes

• Use the exact tenant names from the tenancy agreement.
• State the reason clearly but briefly. Avoid program jargon that tenants may not understand.
• Do not combine grounds on one notice. Use only the loss of eligibility ground here.
• Double‑check dates. Many notices fail because of wrong dates.
• Serve every tenant named on the agreement. One notice per tenant is best practice.
• Keep your tone professional and respectful. You can be clear and kind at the same time.

What to give the tenant along with the notice

• Provide a short cover letter in plain language. Summarize the reason, the effective date, and the tenant’s right to dispute.
• If your policy allows transfers or alternatives, explain the process. Include a contact person.
• Do not include sensitive financial documents unless requested later.

Follow‑up after service

• If the tenant applies to dispute, you will receive a hearing notice. Attend and bring evidence.
• If the tenant moves out earlier, document the agreed move‑out date. Confirm in writing.
• If the tenant stays past the effective date and does not dispute, apply for an Order of Possession. Attach a copy of the notice and proof of service.

By following these steps, you reduce risk. You show that the ground is valid and the process was fair. You also ensure the tenant understands what is happening and why.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• A subsidized rental unit is housing offered at a reduced rent based on need. This form applies when a tenant no longer meets that program’s rules.
• Qualification criteria are the rules that determine if someone gets the subsidy. On this form, you confirm the tenant no longer meets those rules.
• Two-month notice means you give at least two full months before ending the tenancy. The form sets that timeline.
• Effective date is the day the tenancy ends. You calculate it from the date the tenant receives the notice.
• Service of notice is how you deliver the form to the tenant. The method you choose affects when the notice is considered received.
• Deemed received means the law treats the notice as received on a specific day. That day depends on the service method you used.
• Vacate date is the move-out deadline. It is the day after the effective date, unless the notice states otherwise.
• Dispute resolution is a formal process to resolve disagreements about the notice. A tenant can apply if they believe the notice is not valid.
• Evidence is the information that supports your reason for ending the tenancy. For this form, which includes records showing the tenant no longer qualifies.
• Authorized agent is a person allowed to act for the landlord or housing provider. If you sign as an agent, identify yourself clearly on the form.

FAQs

Do you have to attach proof that the tenant no longer qualifies?

You do not file proof with the notice itself. But you should keep clear records that support the decision. Keep income reviews, correspondence, policy excerpts, and assessment notes. If the notice is challenged, you will need them. Do not include sensitive documents you are not permitted to share. Prepare a summary that points to the policy rules instead.

Do you need to offer another unit or transfer?

This form ends the tenancy because the tenant no longer qualifies for a subsidized unit. You are not obligated by this form to offer a transfer. Your housing program may have its own transfer rules. If a transfer is possible, confirm eligibility under those rules before serving this notice.

Do you owe compensation when serving a two-month notice for loss of subsidy?

Compensation rules vary by reason and program. This ground is different from the other two-month notice reasons. Check your program agreement and applicable rules before assuming compensation is owed. If compensation applies, document the amount and payment method. If it does not, note the reason in your file.

Do you still need to give a full two months if the tenant agrees to leave earlier?

Yes, you must give the full notice period. However, the tenant can choose to leave earlier. If they do, confirm the earlier move-out date in writing. Collect keys and complete the move-out inspection when they vacate.

Do you need every adult occupant named on the notice?

Yes, list every tenant named on the tenancy agreement. Serve each tenant. If there are adult occupants not on the agreement, serve the tenants as required. Keep proof of how and when you served the notice.

Do you have to use the exact legal reason on the form?

Yes. Use the specific ground stated on the form: the tenant no longer qualifies for a subsidized rental unit. Do not combine this with other reasons on the same notice. If another reason also applies, consider a separate process and document carefully.

Do you pro-rate rent in the last month?

You can agree to a pro-rated rent if the tenancy ends mid-month. Confirm the pro-rated amount in writing. If the tenancy ends on the last day of a rental period, full rent usually applies. Keep it simple and transparent in your written notice to the tenant.

Do you file the notice with a tribunal or court?

No, you give the notice to the tenant. You keep a copy of your proof of service. You only file documents if someone starts a dispute. If a dispute is filed, you will need the notice, service proof, and your supporting evidence.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

Before signing

• Confirm the ground: The tenant no longer qualifies for the subsidy under the current program rules.
• Gather evidence: Eligibility assessments, income reviews, household composition updates, and policy references.
• Verify tenancy details: Full names of all tenants, unit address, and tenancy start date.
• Confirm rent details: Monthly rent, due date, and any subsidies applied.
• Check dates: Determine when you will serve the notice and calculate the effective date.
• Review service options: Decide how you will deliver the notice. Plan for proof of service.
• Internal approvals: Get sign-off from the authorized decision-maker, if required by your program.
• Privacy review: Remove or redact sensitive personal information not necessary for the notice.

During signing

• Use the correct form: RTB-32Q with the subsidized unit ground selected.
• Complete tenant names: Match the tenancy agreement exactly. Include all tenants.
• Confirm the address: Use the legal unit identifier and full civic address.
• State the reason clearly: “Tenant does not qualify for subsidized rental unit.”
• Enter dates with care: Include the date of service and the effective date.
• Check calculation: Ensure the effective date respects the full notice period.
• Identify the signatory: Print name and title if you sign as an agent.
• Provide contact details: Include a phone and email for questions.
• Review legibility: Ensure all text is clear. Avoid blanks that create confusion.
• Make copies: Prepare one for each tenant and one for your records.

After signing

• Serve the notice: Use a permitted method. Note the date and time.
• Record service details: Method used, who accepted it, and where.
• Calculate deemed receipt: Determine when the notice is considered received.
• Confirm move-out date: Verify the vacate date aligns with the deemed receipt.
• Send a courtesy summary: Share move-out expectations and key dates in writing.
• Track deadlines: Calendar the dispute window and follow-up dates.
• Prepare for a dispute: Assemble evidence, policies, and witness contact details.
• Update internal systems: Flag the unit’s planned vacancy and turnover timeline.
• Store documents: Keep the signed notice, proof of service, and evidence together.
• Plan turnover: Schedule inspection, repairs, and readiness for the next placement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

• Miscalculating the notice period: Don’t forget to count from the day the tenant is deemed to receive the notice. A miscount can void the notice and delay the vacancy.
• Naming the wrong parties: Don’t forget to list all tenants on the agreement. Missing a tenant can make service incomplete and weaken your position in a dispute.
• Vague reasons: Don’t write generic statements like “no longer eligible” without context. State the correct ground clearly and align with the program’s eligibility rules.
• Poor proof of service: Don’t rely on memory. Record the method, date, time, and location of service. Weak proof risks dismissal at a hearing.
• Missing evidence: Don’t send the notice before you verify the qualification change. If challenged, you need clear documentation supporting the decision.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form RTB-32Q – Two Month Notice to End Tenancy Because the Tenant Does Not Qualify for Subsidized Rental Unit

• Serve the notice properly.

Choose a permitted delivery method. Document the details. Calculate the deemed receipt and confirm the effective date. Send a brief confirmation to the tenant for clarity.

• Monitor key timelines.

Track the dispute window and the vacate date. Set reminders one week before each date. Follow up with the tenant to confirm move-out plans.

• Prepare for questions.

Be ready to explain the reason and dates. Keep your program policy and eligibility notes handy. Refer to policy language rather than opinion.

• Handle rent and deposits.

If the tenancy ends mid-period, agree on any pro-rated rent in writing. Plan the move-out inspection. Prepare the security deposit reconciliation.

• Plan unit turnover.

Schedule access for inspection and repairs after the vacate date. Line up cleaning, maintenance, and safety checks. Document the unit’s condition with photos.

• If the tenant disputes the notice.

Gather your package: the signed notice, proof of service, program policy, and eligibility evidence. Prepare a simple timeline. Identify any witnesses. Attend the hearing and present facts clearly.

• If the tenant does not move out.

Do not remove belongings or change locks on your own. Apply for the required order using the appropriate process. Use your evidence package and proof of service.

• If the tenant moves out early by agreement.

Confirm the new move-out date in writing. Update rent, keys, and inspection dates. Keep the original notice in your file with the agreement.

• Keep records organized.

File the notice, service proof, correspondence, and evidence together. Retain records for your program’s retention period. This protects you if issues arise later.

• Review program procedures.

After the file closes, note any process improvements. Update your internal checklist to prevent future errors.