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Security Deposit Return Letter Template — British Columbia

In British Columbia, a landlord must return your security deposit — capped at half of one month's rent — within 15 days after the tenancy ends or after the landlord receives your written forwarding address, whichever is later. Below is a ready-to-edit demand letter with British Columbia’s deadline and tribunal already filled in — customize it, then mail it.

British Columbia at a glance

  • Deposit cap: half of one month's rent.
  • Return deadline: 15 days after the tenancy ends or after the landlord receives your written forwarding address, whichever is later.
  • Interest: the landlord must pay interest on your deposit — the rate is set annually — 0% for 2026.
  • Dispute body: Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) — can order double the deposit if the landlord misses the deadline.

Security Deposit Return Letter Template

Copy the letter below into the editor, replace the text in [brackets] with your details, and PostPal will print and mail it for you.

Subject: Demand for Return of Security Deposit
[Your Name]
[Your Forwarding Address]
[City, British Columbia  Postal Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

[Date]

[Landlord Name]
[Landlord Address]
[City, British Columbia  Postal Code]

RE: DEMAND FOR RETURN OF SECURITY DEPOSIT

Dear [Landlord Name],

I am writing regarding the tenancy at [Rental Property Address], which ended on [Move-out Date]. I paid a security deposit of $[Amount] at the start of the tenancy, and I provided my forwarding address above.

Under Residential Tenancy Act (SBC 2002, c. 78, s. 38), you were required to return my deposit, plus any interest owed, within 15 days after the tenancy ends or after the landlord receives your written forwarding address, whichever is later. That deadline has now passed and I have not received my deposit, an itemized statement of deductions, or a response from you.

I am formally requesting the full refund of $[Amount] plus interest within [10] days of the date of this letter, on or before [deadline date]. Please send payment by [e-transfer / cheque / other method] to [payment details].

If I do not receive payment by that date, I will file an application with the Residential Tenancy Branch, which can order you to pay double the deposit amount when a landlord misses this deadline.

I would prefer to resolve this without a formal application and trust you will attend to this promptly.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]

What your security deposit return letter must include

  • Your full name and forwarding address, and the landlord’s name and address
  • The tenancy address, move-out date, and the amount of your deposit
  • The statutory deadline the landlord missed (15 days after the tenancy ends or after the landlord receives your written forwarding address, whichever is later)
  • Any interest owed on the deposit, and a request for it to be included
  • A statement that you will apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch if you are not paid

Send it registered, with proof of delivery

A security deposit return letter carries more weight when you can prove it was received. PostPal can mail your letter by registered mail with Canada Post — you get tracking and a signed record of delivery, for $22 more.

Frequently asked questions

How long does my landlord have to return my deposit in British Columbia?

Under Residential Tenancy Act (SBC 2002, c. 78, s. 38), a landlord must return your deposit 15 days after the tenancy ends or after the landlord receives your written forwarding address, whichever is later. If that deadline passes with no refund and no proper deductions, you can demand it back and, if needed, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Is my landlord required to pay interest on my deposit?

Yes. British Columbia requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits — the rate is set annually — 0% for 2026. Ask for it explicitly in your demand letter.

What happens if my landlord misses the deadline?

You can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch, which can order your landlord to pay double the deposit amount when they miss the statutory deadline.

Should I send this by registered mail?

Yes. Registered mail gives you a dated record the landlord received your demand, which is useful evidence if you apply to the RTB. PostPal can mail your letter by registered mail with Canada Post, complete with tracking and proof of delivery.

More security deposit return letter templates for other provinces

Legal facts verified against official sources on September 2, 2026: www2.gov.bc.ca, bclaws.gov.bc.ca.

This template is provided for convenience only. It is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Court limits and rules change — confirm anything time-sensitive on the official page, and consult a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.