On February 4, 2026, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) hosted a special Independent Living | Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) Edition of Care to Chat at the Terminal City Club in Vancouver. Moderated by Chartwell’s Sharon Ranalli (VP Marketing & Communications), the panel featured Allison Foord (Partner, BLG), Amir Hemani (CEO, Berwick Retirement Communities), Rita Thibault (Principal, Westbridge Valuation Partner), and Mary Polak (CEO, BCCPA).
The conversation focused on the need for a balanced regulatory framework that supports seniors’ housing needs while ensuring the long term‑term viability of independent living communities. The discussion began with Polak providing historical context on the long-standing policy gap, followed by Foord outlining how current RTA provisions do not align with the independent living model.
Drawing on BCCPA and Westbridge’s 2025 Independent Living Survey, Thibault showed that operators face rising costs far beyond what RTA rent increase limits allow, putting them in a position of either charging higher rates to new residents or compromising service quality – both of which hinder attraction and retention.
Drawing on his experience as an independent living operator, Hemani discussed using the rental and service agreement template contracts that BCCPA contracted BLG to develop. He emphasized that although the RTA aims to protect seniors, it often reduces affordability for those seeking independent living, while also highlighting gaps in the Seniors Advocate report.
Polak highlighted the need to better educate government and the public about seniors independent living, noting persistent misconceptions that shape negative media narratives. She encouraged stronger advocacy and affirmed BCCPA’s continued engagement with the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Thibault circled back to the Independent Living Survey, also providing a brief overview of key findings:
- RTA restrictions are limiting new independent living development despite strong growth in the 75+ and 85+ population.
- 2025 independent living vacancy rate: 8.1%, alongside 24% five y‑year growth in the 75+ demographic.
- While seniors’ housing demand and affordability is often discussed in the context of the Single-Family Dwelling market, the condo market is also a key factor, particularly in urban centres
- Seniors are leaving B.C. for the first time since 1972.
The event concluded with audience questions and key takeaways from Ranalli.
BCCPA extends its thanks to members for the opportunity to share an update on this ongoing issue. We appreciate the strong engagement and insights from across the sector, and we remain focused on advancing a balanced approach that protects the rights of seniors while supporting this the unique nature of this enriched living model. BCCPA will continue to keep our members informed on this issue as our advocacy evolves.
Thank you to our sponsors for making this conversation possible:
Click here to view photos from the event.
