# Human Rights Overlaps in Tenancy (BC)

> Legal information only. Verify *Human Rights Code* on [bclaws.gov.bc.ca](https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca) and procedure at [bchrt.bc.ca](https://www.bchrt.bc.ca).

## Protected grounds (tenancy — working list)

Often engaged under **Code s. 10** (confirm current text): race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, **source of income**.

## Dual-forum strategy

| Forum | Role |
|-------|------|
| RTB | Tenancy-specific remedies under RTA/MHPTA |
| BCHRT | Discrimination remedies under the Code |

Claims can be **complementary**. Do not assume filing one bars the other without checking current law and any estoppel / abuse of process principles.

## Intersection matrix

| Situation | RTB angle | BCHRT angle |
|-----------|-----------|-------------|
| Eviction after disability disclosure | Retaliation / bad faith / notice validity | Disability discrimination |
| Service animal excluded via “no pets” | Pet / quiet enjoyment / terms | Disability accommodation |
| Refusal of income-assistance tenants | Illegal term / selection practice | Source of income |
| Children / family status pretext | Notice validity / discrimination-adjacent facts | Family status |
| Ethnic/religious harassment | Quiet enjoyment | Discrimination / harassment |

## BCHRT basics (confirm current practice)

- **Limitation:** often 1 year from last discriminatory act — **`[VERIFY]`**  
- File complaint form via BCHRT  
- Mediation frequently available  
- Remedies may include compensation and public interest terms  

## Evidence package

- [ ] Timeline of discriminatory acts (last act date)  
- [ ] Communications disclosing protected characteristic  
- [ ] Comparator treatment if available  
- [ ] Notice of eviction and stated grounds  
- [ ] Accommodation requests and responses  
- [ ] Witness statements  

## Referral

Complex dual-file matters: **`[INDEPENDENT COUNSEL RECOMMENDED]`** + CLAS / TRAC as appropriate.

## Labels

`[FACT]` disclosure date · `[ALLEGATION]` pretext · `[LAW]` Code s. 10 · `[ARGUMENT]` dual remedies · `[REMEDY]` BCHRT damages + RTB order