BC Deposit Dispute Decision Estimator
Enter the facts from your move-in and move-out condition inspection reports. This tool walks through the same legal tests an RTB arbitrator applies and produces a written, decision-style estimate of who is responsible and for how much.
This is an educational estimate, not a legal decision. It is not issued by the Residential Tenancy Branch and is not binding on anyone. RTB arbitrators are not bound by past decisions or by any formula, and they weigh evidence case by case. Use this to understand the framework and prepare — not as a ruling. For a binding decision, apply for dispute resolution. For legal advice, speak to a lawyer or a tenancy advocate.
The 15-day clock and any double-deposit penalty only start once the tenancy has ended and the landlord has the forwarding address in writing (RTA s.38, s.39).
If the landlord skipped or botched either inspection, their right to claim against the deposit for damage can be extinguished (RTA s.24, s.36).
What this tool is built on
Every rule below is from BC legislation or a current RTB policy guideline. No case citations are used, because RTB decisions are not binding precedent.
- RTA s.7 & s.67 — a party who breaks the Act must compensate the other; the director may order that amount.
- RTA s.32 & s.37 — tenant must leave the unit reasonably clean and undamaged, beyond normal wear and tear.
- RTA s.38 — 15 days to return the deposit or file; failure means the landlord owes double and loses the claim.
- RTA s.23, 24 & 36 — inspection duties; rights to the deposit can be extinguished if these are not met.
- Policy Guideline 1 — defines reasonable wear and tear versus tenant-caused damage.
- Policy Guideline 16 — the four-part test for any compensation claim.
- Policy Guideline 40 (Feb 2025) — useful-life table and the betterment / depreciation method.
- Deposit interest — set by regulation; 0% for 2026.