One day, Michel’s landlord sent a note to him and his neighbours: they would be charged a late fee if they did not pay their rent by 11:00 a.m. on the first of each month. Michel thought this seemed wrong, so he called the Residential Tenancy Branch to find out.

Michel tried for two days to get through to the RTB. Each time, he was put on hold until, eventually, the call was disconnected. Michel came to us and we arranged contact.

The next day, Michel received his call from the RTB and learned that the Residential Tenancy Act allows tenants the full day to make on-time payment. Furthermore, it is not appropriate for landlords to introduce any late fees that are not included in valid tenancy agreements.

The RTB offered to talk to Michel’s landlord. Michel declined – he and some other tenants would write to the landlord instead.