RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

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

What is an RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase?

The RTB-52 is a formal application to the Residential Tenancy Branch. It asks for approval to raise rent above the annual limit set for British Columbia. You use it when the standard allowable increase does not cover specific, significant costs.

Only a landlord or authorized agent files this form. Tenants do not complete the RTB-52. Tenants will receive notice of the application and can attend the hearing.

You use this form when you seek an “additional rent increase.” This is a special increase that sits on top of the annual limit. The Branch reviews your reasons, your numbers, and your proof. If approved, you then issue a Notice of Rent Increase using the decision as authority.

Typical use cases

First, large capital work that preserves or improves the property. Think roof replacement, building envelope repairs, elevator modernization, or a new high‑efficiency boiler. Second, an extraordinary rise in operating costs. These are big cost jumps beyond normal inflation. Common examples include sharp increases in utilities, insurance, or municipal charges. Third, new or upgraded services or facilities provided to the tenant. For example, a new on‑site laundry, secure bike storage, or a parking stall added to the tenancy.

You do not use this form for routine maintenance. You also do not use it for costs that only benefit the landlord. Mortgage interest or financing charges will not qualify. Cosmetic upgrades usually will not qualify unless tied to a larger repair.

Filing the RTB-52 starts a dispute resolution process. An arbitrator reviews your application at a hearing. You must show why the increase is necessary and fair. You must also show your math. Good evidence matters. Clear invoices and a clean allocation across units help your case.

If the Branch approves the increase, it will issue a written decision. That decision sets the approved percentage or dollar amount. It may set a phase‑in schedule. It can also set conditions. You must follow those terms exactly when you issue the rent increase notice.

When Would You Use an RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase?

You use this form when your costs rise in a way that the annual increase does not cover. The most common situations involve capital upgrades or extraordinary expenses. You must show that the unit or building needed the work. You also must show the tenant benefits from the improvement.

Picture a low‑rise with a failing roof. You replace the roof to stop leaks and protect the structure. The cost is significant. You spread the cost across the units that benefit. The RTB-52 lets you ask to recover a share through rent. You provide invoices, contracts, photos, and permits. You show how you allocated the cost per unit.

Another example is an insurance premium spike that doubles your annual cost. You submit renewal notices, the prior policy, and proof of payment. You explain why the increase is extraordinary. You link the cost to the building the tenant occupies.

You might also add new services. For example, you build a secure bike room for tenants. You install fob access and CCTV. The feature did not exist in the tenancy before. You ask for an additional increase to reflect the added value. You include invoices and a clear explanation of who can use the service.

If you own multiple units, you pro‑rate fairly. Work that benefits only one unit, like a unit‑specific heat pump, should not be charged to other units. Work that benefits the building, like a boiler, can be allocated across units that use it. Explain your allocation method in your application.

The typical users are residential landlords and property managers. Manufactured home park landlords may also use a version of this form. Tenants will not file it, but they can respond to it. They can challenge the amounts, math, or fairness at the hearing.

Do not use the RTB-52 to catch up to market rent. Do not use it to pass through normal wear‑and‑tear fixes. Do not file if you lack invoices or solid proof. The Branch expects a clear paper trail. It wants to see necessity, reasonableness, and accuracy.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

The RTB-52 is not itself a rent increase. It is a request for an order that authorizes an additional increase. The application triggers a formal dispute resolution process. The outcome is a decision by an arbitrator. That decision is binding under the provincial tenancy laws.

Enforceability comes from the Branch’s jurisdiction and process. The arbitrator weighs evidence and applies the legal test. If the Branch approves the application, the decision will set the allowed increase. You must then serve a Notice of Rent Increase that complies with the decision and notice rules. You cannot collect the higher rent before the notice period ends. You also cannot apply the increase retroactively.

The law expects that landlords follow service and timing rules. You must serve all hearing materials by the deadline in the Notice of Hearing. If you miss service deadlines, the Branch can dismiss your application. If your evidence is weak, the Branch can deny or reduce the increase. If you inflate numbers or include ineligible costs, the Branch can reject those items.

The decision limits what you can charge. It may require a phase‑in over several years. It may restrict the increase to units that benefit from the work. It may exclude costs that are not eligible. Read the decision carefully before issuing any rent notice.

Tenants can enforce or challenge compliance. If you issue a rent increase that goes beyond the order, tenants can dispute it. If you do not follow the phase‑in schedule, tenants can seek relief. Keep your records ready to show that you applied the decision correctly.

The Branch can also impose conditions on future applications. It may require you to maintain the improvements funded by the increase. It may bar duplicate recovery of the same expense. You cannot double-dip. If you receive grants or rebates, you must account for them in your math.

How to Fill Out an RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

Prepare first. Confirm that your reason fits an eligible ground. Gather invoices, contracts, permits, photos, and proof of payment. Organize documents by expense type. Number the pages. Create an index. Clear packages reduce questions and save time.

Step 1: Identify the parties

List the landlord’s full legal name and contact details. If an agent files for you, add their authorization. Include a phone and email you monitor. The Branch uses these for hearing notices.

List each tenant for each unit included. Use legal names as written on the tenancy agreement. Include unit numbers and the full property address. If you apply for multiple units, attach a schedule that lists them all. Use one line per unit.

Step 2: Describe each tenancy

For each unit, state the tenancy start date. State the current monthly rent and rent frequency. Identify the date of the last rent increase. This shows compliance with the rent increase rules. If you applied prior additional increases, note them.

State if the unit is currently occupied. If a listed unit is vacant, explain why you included it. The Branch usually focuses on occupied tenancies.

Step 3: Select the ground for the additional increase

The form asks why you seek an additional increase. Choose the ground that matches your facts:

• Eligible capital expenditures or major repairs.
• Extraordinary increase in operating expenses.
• New or additional services or facilities for the tenant.

You can check more than one ground if both apply. For example, a boiler replacement (capital) and a large insurance rise (operating). Keep each ground in its own section. Do not mix documents. Clear separation helps the decision.

Step 4: Provide a clear narrative

Explain what you did or what changed. Keep it factual and concise. Example: “In 2024, we replaced the original 1978 boiler. The old boiler failed pressure tests. The new high‑efficiency boiler heats all 12 units. We attach engineering reports, contracts, permits, and paid invoices.”

For operating expenses, compare periods. Example: “Insurance premium for 2023–2024 was $22,000. The 2024–2025 renewal is $45,000. We attach both policies and proof of payment.”

For new services, describe the feature and who can access it. Explain whether the use is optional or included. State if tenants requested it or if it was required by law or safety.

Step 5: Do the math

You must show how you calculated the requested increase. Use simple formulas and round consistently.

• For capital work, show the total cost. Deduct grants, rebates, or insurance proceeds. Allocate the net cost across the units that benefit. If common areas also benefit, explain your split. Show any amortization period used. Then convert the per‑unit figure into a monthly amount.

• For operating expenses, show the prior cost and the new cost. Show the difference that exceeds normal increases. Allocate the difference across the units that use the service. If a unit pays its own utilities, exclude it from that allocation.

• For new services, state the cost to provide and maintain the service. If it replaces an old service, show the net change. Describe whether the service is optional. If optional, explain how you will charge only users, if that applies.

Present the requested increase both as a dollar amount and a percentage. Show the calculation from the current rent to the new rent. Example: “Current rent $1,500. Requested an additional increase $30. New rent $1,530, plus any approved annual increase.”

Step 6: Attach supporting documents

Include copies, not originals. Label each document with an exhibit number and a title. Common exhibits include:

• Invoices, contracts, and change orders.
• Proof of payment, such as bank statements or receipts.
• Photos showing before and after conditions.
• Permits, inspection reports, or compliance letters.
• Insurance policies and renewal notices.
• Utility bills showing the increase by period.
• Municipal tax or fee notices if relevant.
• Grant or rebate confirmations.
• A unit list with allocation math.

Match each exhibit to the ground you selected. Reference exhibit numbers in your narrative.

Step 7: Complete schedules for multiple units

If you apply for more than one unit, use a schedule. List each unit, current rent, proposed increase, and new rent. Show the allocation for each unit. Use the same method across units that benefit equally. If some units benefit differently, explain the difference.

A clean schedule answers most questions at a glance. Keep the layout simple. Use one page if possible.

Step 8: Confirm service details

The Branch will issue a Notice of Hearing after you file. You must serve the notice and your evidence on each tenant. The form asks how you intend to serve documents. Confirm you can reach each tenant using an allowed method. Keep proof of service.

Check your tenancy agreements for any consent to email service. If you rely on mail, build in mailing time. If you serve in person, note the date and time. Accurate service records protect your application.

Step 9: Sign the declaration

Review the form for accuracy. Confirm all attachments are included. Sign and date the declaration. You certify the truth of your statements. False or incomplete information can undermine your case.

If an agent signs, include a signed authorization. The Branch may ask for proof of authority at the hearing.

Step 10: File and pay the fee

Submit the form and attachments to the Branch. Pay the filing fee. If you qualify for a fee waiver, submit that request with your application. Keep copies of everything you file.

Track the file number you receive. You will need it for all future contact.

Step 11: Prepare for the hearing

Read the Notice of Hearing. It sets deadlines for serving evidence on tenants. It sets the hearing date, time, and format. Serve your package before the deadline. Use the same package you filed. Include your proof of service in your hearing materials.

Prepare a brief summary. Keep it to two pages. State the ground, the key facts, the amounts, and the math. Bring your exhibits to the hearing with page numbers. Be ready to answer questions about necessity, scope, and allocation.

Stay focused on facts. Do not argue the market rent. Show how the tenant benefits or how the work protects the unit. Explain why the cost is reasonable.

Step 12: After the decision

If approved, follow the decision exactly. It may allow a phase‑in over time. It may set a maximum dollar or percentage. It may limit the increase to certain units. Apply the terms with care.

You must still serve a Notice of Rent Increase. Give proper notice before the increase takes effect. Do not collect the higher rent before the notice period ends. Attach the decision to the notice if the decision requires it.

If the Branch denies your application, review the reasons. You may adjust your plan and reapply with better proof. You may also decide to absorb some costs and defer others.

Practical tips and common pitfalls

• Match costs to benefits. Do not allocate a unit‑specific upgrade across the whole building.
• Net out rebates, insurance proceeds, and discounts. Show the net cost you actually paid.
• Keep consistent dates when comparing expenses. Annualize partial periods.
• Do not include financing costs or normal maintenance.
• Label exhibits clearly. Refer to them in your narrative by exhibit number.
• If you rely on estimates for work not yet done, explain why. Provide binding quotes and timelines.
• Keep communication with tenants professional. Share a simple summary of what you seek and why.

Filing the RTB-52 takes discipline and detail. Your goal is clarity. Show the need, the numbers, and the fairness of your allocation. If you prepare well, you make the hearing easier and increase your chance of approval.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Allowable annual rent increase means the standard limit for rent increases. You compare your request to this baseline. On RTB-52, you show why you need more.
• Additional rent increase is an increase above the standard limit. You use RTB-52 to request this higher amount. You must justify the difference.
• Capital expenditure is a major improvement or replacement. It adds value or extends the life of the property. On RTB-52, you list these projects and costs.
• Operating cost is an ongoing expense to run the property. It includes things like insurance or utilities. RTB-52 asks you to show increases with records.
• Unforeseen expense is a sudden, necessary cost you could not predict. It may arise from a failure or incident. You explain it and show proof on RTB-52.
• Amortization spreads a big cost over a set period. It converts a lump sum into monthly amounts. RTB-52 needs this to calculate the increase per unit.
• Effective date is when the new rent would start. You cannot jump the timeline. RTB-52 asks you to propose a date that respects notice rules.
• Arbitrator’s order is the decision on your request. It sets the approved increase and conditions. You cannot apply it until the order is issued.
• Service of documents is how you deliver forms and evidence. You must follow accepted methods and deadlines. RTB-52 depends on proper service to proceed.
• Evidence package is the bundle of your proof. It includes invoices, contracts, statements, and photos. RTB-52 relies on this to support your claim.

FAQs

Do you need tenant consent to file RTB-52?

No. You file the application yourself. Tenants receive notice of the process and can respond. You must serve documents on them as required. The decision maker weighs both sides.

Do you file RTB-52 before giving a rent increase notice?

Yes. You file first and wait for a decision. If approved, you then issue a standard rent increase notice. You must give proper advance notice for the effective date.

Do you apply for multiple units on one RTB-52?

You can if the same reason applies to all units. Your evidence and math must cover each unit fairly. If units differ, consider separate applications. Keep the package clear and consistent.

Do you need to amortize capital projects on RTB-52?

Yes, in most cases. You spread the cost over the asset’s useful life. You then calculate a monthly amount per unit. Show the schedule and the method you used.

Do routine repairs qualify for an additional increase?

Usually not. Routine maintenance is part of regular costs. RTB-52 focuses on major improvements or cost spikes. Prove how your situation goes beyond normal upkeep.

Do tenants get to challenge your application?

Yes. They can participate, file evidence, and attend the hearing. Expect questions on your costs and math. Prepare clear, organized proof and explanations.

Do you need to show proof of payment, or only quotes?

You should show proof of payment when available. Quotes alone carry less weight. Invoices, receipts, bank statements, and contracts are stronger. Label each document clearly.

Do you need to apply right after the expense occurs?

Sooner is better. Timely applications connect costs to the requested increase. If you wait, be ready to explain the delay. Keep dates and documents organized.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

Before you sign and submit

Confirm your basis for the request:

• Capital expenditures with dates, scope, and outcomes.
• Operating cost increases with detailed records.
• Unforeseen expenses will cause urgency.

Gather proof for every claimed amount:

• Signed contracts and change orders.
• Invoices and proof of payment.
• Bank or card statements tied to invoices.
• Photos or reports showing the condition and work done.
• Insurance or utility statements showing rate changes.

Prepare your math:

• Total cost and what portion applies to each unit.
• Amortization period and method used.
• Monthly amount per unit from each cost category.
• Summary table showing totals and final request.

Confirm tenancy details:

• Legal names of landlord and tenants.
• Unit numbers and full civic address.
• Current rent for each unit.
• Service addresses for each party.

Check timing:

• The proposed effective date leaves enough notice time.
• Evidence can be served by the deadlines.
• Witnesses or contractors are available if needed.

Draft a short narrative:

• Why was the work necessary, and why did the cost increase?
• Why did you choose the solution and timing?
• How did you minimize the impact on tenants?

During completion and signing

Verify identity details:

• Legal landlord name and contact information.
• Agent authority if an agent signs.

Confirm property details:

• Correct address and legal description if needed.
• List of all affected units and tenants.

Check the request details:

• Total amount requested above the standard limit.
• Breakdown by unit and by cost category.
• Clear amortization math and monthly amounts.

Review the evidence list:

• Every document is named and numbered.
• Each figure in the form ties to a document.
• Sensitive data is redacted where appropriate.

Validate dates and timelines:

• Application date is correct.
• Proposed effective date respects notice rules.

Complete the declaration:

• Read the statements carefully.
• Sign and date in the correct spot.

Prepare payment:

• Confirm the filing fee and method.
• Keep a record of the payment confirmation.

After signing

File the application:

• Submit the form and all attachments.
• Keep the submission confirmation and file number.

Organize your case file:

• Master evidence package with index and tabs.
• Separate set for each tenant and for your use.

Serve documents:

• Serve tenants according to accepted methods.
• Include the application, evidence, and any notices.
• Keep proof of service for each tenant.

Calendar deadlines:

• Service deadlines for the hearing.
• Response deadlines for you and tenants.
• Hearing date and time.

Prepare for the hearing:

• Summary of facts and key numbers.
• Witnesses or contractors are ready to testify if needed.
• Exhibits are labeled and easy to reference.

After the decision:

• Read the order carefully.
• Adjust your calculations if the order modifies amounts.
• Serve the rent increase notice with the approved figures.
• Set the effective date with proper notice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

• Don’t forget to link every number to proof. Missing backup leads to reduced weight or denial. You risk delays, adjournments, or dismissal.
• Don’t mix routine maintenance with capital projects. Routine tasks rarely qualify. Blurred categories invite cuts to your request.
• Don’t skip amortization for big projects. Lump sums without schedules look inflated. You could lose the increase or face a reduction.
• Don’t ignore per‑unit allocation. A single building total is not enough. Unfair splits can cause partial denial.
• Don’t miss service requirements. Late or improper service undermines your case. The matter can be adjourned or dismissed.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form RTB-52 – Application for Additional Rent Increase

Submit your application

• File the signed form with all attachments. Include the fee. Keep the confirmation and file number. Store a timestamped copy of everything you sent.

Serve the application package

• Serve tenants with the application and evidence. Use accepted service methods. Track how and when you served each tenant. Keep receipts or declarations of service.

Prepare for the hearing or review

• Build a short opening statement. Explain why your request meets the criteria. Walk through the math in simple steps. Practice answers to expected questions.

Organize exhibits

• Label each document with an exhibit number and title. Create an index with page numbers. Bundle by topic: capital, operating, unforeseen, and allocation.

Coordinate witnesses

• Line up contractors or property staff if helpful. Prepare a short statement for each. Confirm attendance details in advance.

Attend the hearing

• Arrive early and test technology if applicable. Have your index and exhibits ready. Answer questions directly. Take clear notes of any directions.

Receive and read the order

• When you receive the order, read it twice. Note the approved amount and any conditions. Update your rent calculations to match the order.

Issue the rent increase notice

• Prepare the standard rent increase notice. Reference the order where required. Set an effective date that respects notice rules. Serve it to all affected tenants. Keep proof of service.

Adjust your records and systems

• Update ledgers and rent schedules. Notify accounting and property teams. Set reminders for the effective date and any follow‑up.

If the outcome is partial or denied

• Review the reasons closely. Identify gaps in evidence or math. Decide if a new application or other steps make sense. Avoid repeating the same errors.

If circumstances change

• If new costs arise, update your evidence. If you resolve issues, consider amending or withdrawing. Notify all parties of any changes promptly.

Store everything securely

• Keep the application, exhibits, service proofs, hearing notes, and order. Retain these for future audits or disputes. Maintain both digital and paper copies.