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Here's how much your rent can legally be increased in B.C. in 2020

The provincial government announced this week the maximum allowable rent increase for 2020 will mirror the province's annual rate of inflation.

 B.C. announced the maximum allowable rent increase for the province for 2020. File photo by Dan ToulgoetThe NDP government’s budget update did not mention the party’s election promise of a $400-a-year renters’ rebate. Photo Dan Toulgoet

Renters across the province are getting a bit of a break.

The provincial government announced Wednesday, September 4 the maximum allowable rent increase for 2020 is 2.6 per cent, the province's annual rate of inflation.

In a news release, government officials say that is lower than it would have been prior to the elimination of a provision that used to allow for increases 2 per cent above the inflation rate.

"Under the old formula, renters would have seen a rent hike of more than 9 per cent in 2019 and 2020," said Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Selina Robinson.

"Because of our changes, and the removal of the fixed-term loophole, people will no longer face the unreasonable rent hikes that were allowed for years."

The government says removing the additional 2 per cent will allow renters living in an average $1,250 a month apartment to save up to $300 next year.

Robinson says the province is also taking steps to further protect tenants and limit evictions related to renovations.

Compensation for bad-faith evictions have increased while requirements for eviction notifications have been strengthened.