As 2025 rolls on, the Canadian home remains under increasing pressure from rising inflation and rents. For tenants and communities, rent increases have economic and social impacts that extend far beyond just a simple bill increase, particularly when vacancy rates are low and living costs are increasing.
Rent Control in Canada: Protecting Tenants from Excessive Hikes
Rent control tries to protect tenants from rent hikes based on whims, imposing some restraint on the number of times and amount a landlord can increase the rent. There is provincial and territorial variation in such restrictions but the most general principles include: >
- Limiting frequency of increase, say a limit of rent increase every 12 months.
- Giving notice for rent increase (ordinarily 90 days).
- Capping the percentage increase to either inflation or the market conditions.
People who do not know their rights risk being exploited by landlords or other individuals who do not know the law. To navigate the rental market in 2025, staying abreast is essential. >
Provincial Overview of Rent Increases in 2025

Alberta Rent Increase: No Legal Cap
In Alberta, the law does not limit the amount by which a landlord can increase rent, but there are rules regarding when and how. Rent can only be increased once per year, either at the start of a tenancy or after the last rent increase. >
British Columbia (BC) Rent Increase: 3% Cap
As of January 1, 2025, the BC landlords are restricted to a 3% rent increase, which is reduced from 3.5% in 2024.Tenants are allowed to be given at least three months’ notice before a rent increase, and only one increase is allowed annually.
Ontario Rent Increase:
2.5% Cap The rent control policies in Ontario have capped the increase at 2.5% for 2025. The landlord cannot increase rent for 12 months after the beginning of tenancy or the last rent increase. >
Quebec Rent Increase:

5.9% Average In Quebec, the average rent increase for 2025 is at 5.9%. The landlord may increase rent only once per year, with one to two months’ notice period before renewing the periodic rental agreement.
Nova Scotia Rent Increase
Cap In Nova Scotia, the cap on rent increase will be 5% annually for the year 2025. Landlords cannot increase rent during the first year of tenancy. Otherwise, landlords may increase rent only after 12 months.
Impact of Rent Increases on Canadians
The imbalance between demand and supply for rented houses in the main cities leads to higher housing costs. The competition thus allows landlords an excuse to increase the rent; however, fewer options are available for tenants.
Higher rents take up more of the household income, which leaves little room for other needs such as food, transportation, and healthcare. The housing instability that follows can make tenants be evicted or have to downgrade, which means they will experience further financial and social problems.
Key Takeaways for Renters in 2025

- Know Your Rights: Know the provincial rent control laws and regulations.
- Plan for Increases: Factor potential rent hikes into your 2025 budget to avoid financial surprises.
- Communicate with Landlords: Stay informed about required notice periods and the legality of proposed rent increases.
Conclusion: Navigating Canada’s 2025 Rental Landscape
Increases in rent for 2025 call for tenants to be aware and prepare their finances in advance. Though provincial regulations attempt to provide stability, the lack of supply versus demand is putting a strain on the rental market. Affordable housing is a major issue for many Canadians, thus there is a need for policy measures to improve housing availability and affordability.
Keep up-to-date, be informed about your rights, and be prepared for whatever lies ahead of the 2025 rent increases.