The Residential Tenancy Act has been amended to support renters and landlords during the provincial state of emergency and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The amendments are in effect for the duration of the State of Emergency. These include a temporary moratorium on eviction and freeze on rent increases as well as restrictions to protect social distancing practices in rental units and buildings. More information is available at www2.gov.bc.ca.

If you are a New Westminster tenant with immediate concerns and questions about your existing tenancy or building, the BC Government - Residential Tenancy Branch may be able to offer further assistance. Phone 604-660-1020 or 1-800-665-8779 or email .

Paying Rent during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Provincial legislation requires that tenants pay rent in full and on time during the pandemic; however, there are a number of support options available to tenants facing financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 crisis including the ones listed below:

• Enhanced New Westminster Rent Bank for renters at risk of eviction due to loss of income and inability to pay rent. 
• The B.C. Temporary Rent Supplement (BC-TRS) support towards rent payments for tenants impacted by COVID-19
• The B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers will provide a tax-free, one time $1,000 payment for B.C. residents whose ability to work has been affected due to COVID-19
• Federal government financial supports for individuals and families who are facing a loss of income due to the pandemic 
• The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will provide a taxable benefit of $2,000 every 4 weeks for up to 16 weeks to eligible workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19.

For the latest information on tenant resources during the COVID-19 pandemic and for details on rent supports, please visit the City website at newwestcity.ca/covid-community