Dispute Resolution
I am seeking return of $750 deducted from my security deposit of $1600 plus any other remedy the Residential Tenancy Branch determines is appropriate.
My tenancy ended July 31 2026. My landlord and I arranged a move-out inspection for July 31. Before the inspection, the landlord advised me that she would be giving the keys to the new tenant and that the new tenant would be moving in “right away”. On July 31, the landlord confirmed by text that she would meet the new tenant at 5:30PM to hand over the keys.
I participated in the move-out inspection with the landlord on July 31. My recollection is that the condition inspection report was completed, the landlord wrote “everything is fine” and we both signed it. I provided my forwarding address.
I was not provided a copy of the signed report. When I later requested a copy, the landlord initially told me that she had thrown it out. On August 14 2026, she provided the copy and stated that we have signed the move out portion and asked me to sign it. I did not agree to revise or sign a new version of the report.
After the inspection, the landlord advised me that the new tenant had provided pictures of items I left behind and cleaning that needed to be done. The landlord stated that she would deduct $600 for cleaning and $150 for half of the dumping fees from my security deposit. I did not sign a written agreement authorizing a $750 deduction.
After I emailed the landlord regarding the security deposit and condition inspection report, I requested that she communicate with me by email rather than text. The landlord forwarded my formal written letter and a revised condition inspection report containing my personal information to the new tenant, an individual I do not know and to whom I had not consented to have my personal information disclosed. I have retained the correspondence showing the disclosure.
The landlord ultimately returned $876.11 from my $1600 deposit, retaining $750.
My goal was to ask the RTB to determine whether the landlord was entitled to retain the $750 and whether the landlord complied with the requirements concerning the inspection report and security deposit.
I have screenshots of text messages and emails that are dated.
Today Aug 17, I sent an email to her stating that I acknowledged that I agreed to deductions but that I did not sign an amount and didn't receive a copy of the report. I politely told the I would take matters to resolve this appropriately and they immediately returned the remainder of the $750 from the deposit.
I could take the win. I don't want revenge. I am not vindictive. However, I do believe in fairness and justice. Is it wrong that I still want to proceed with applying for dispute resolution?
It was never about the money for me. I just wanted things to be handled appropriately and legally.
Moving was very stressful and this whole interaction with my landlord caused a lot of distress for me to the point where it was affecting my mental and physical health. I don't need to explain that to the RTB. I just want to make sure my previous landlord knows what they did was not okay and to learn how to resolve matters appropriately.