Thursday January 08, 2026
FirstService Residential leads rental property management across BC, helping owners and investors keep buildings fully leased, well-maintained, and compliant with evolving provincial regulations. From industrial rental assets and purpose-built affordable housing to luxury condos and mixed-use low-rise communities, FirstService’s scale and local expertise support consistent returns and a better resident and tenant experience.We connected with Amerjit Uppal, Senior Director, Invested Properties at FirstService Residential BC to learn more about her valuable insight on all things rental.
"I bring 35 years of leadership in residential, commercial, and industrial rental management and was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 by the Professional Association of Managing Agents (PAMA) BC. I believe opportunities for growth and learning, strong administrative support, long term experienced employees, and retention, personalized service and technology are just some of the key items we bring to the table."
Amerjit Uppal, Senior Director, Investment Properties at FirstService Residential BC
Expert insights on the value of professional property management for rentals in Vancouver and beyond.
Why professional rental management matters in BC
"Property management for rentals isn’t just repairs and rent collection, its risk management, regulatory compliance, and effective communication with both owners and residents, delivered with transparency and consistent communication so everyone knows what to expect."
What sets FirstService apart for rental owners
"Our scale gives BC owners access to dedicated leasing teams, centralized marketing, negotiated vendor pricing, and in-house specialists. We deploy proven leasing strategies, thorough tenant screening, and strong financial reporting so owners see fewer vacancies and cleaner monthly statements. FirstService’s BC rental services include tenant screening (reference, employment, credit checks), rent collection, marketing informed by market surveys, capital planning and reserves, insurance efficiencies, and WorkSafeBC-compliant contractor administration."Visit our British Columbia rental property management page here to learn more about our tailored services, including tenant screening, rent collection, and more.
Compliance with changing laws (and why it matters more than ever)
BC has introduced significant regulatory changes affecting rental and stratified buildings:- Residential Tenancy Act (RTA): In 2024, Bill 14 introduced phased amendments, including a longer notice period for personal-use terminations (four months, with subsequent adjustments for purchaser-related notices), extended tenant dispute windows (up to 30 days in most cases), and a new mandatory digital notice system operated by the director’s authorized internet site. These changes heighten administrative and legal risk for landlords who aren’t tracking updates in real time.
- Strata Property Act (SPA): As of July 1, 2024, strata corporations with five or more lots must obtain depreciation reports every five years; annual deferrals by ¾ vote are no longer permitted. Additional provider categories for reports took effect in 2025. For rental owners in stratified buildings, these requirements affect long-term budgeting and disclosure.
"Keeping pace with the Residential Tenancy Act and Strata Property Act isn’t optional. Our expertise and knowledge of changing laws protects owners against costly missteps and our managers receive regular training and compliance briefings so residents and councils get accurate, timely guidance."Read our article 'BC rental laws: Everything you need to know' to learn more about local legislation impacting the rental market and how we can support compliance.
Technology that elevates resident experience (and reduces friction)
"Residents expect quick answers. We use tools like FirstService Residential Connect™ and HODA®, our text-based digital assistant, to streamline service requests, amenity bookings, and account questions around the clock. That keeps communication centralized and reduces back-and-forth."
How we tailor rental strategies by building type
"FirstService manages a wide range of rental communities from high-rises, townhomes, condominium rentals in low rise developments, and single-purpose rental towers. High-rises need concierge staffing and building systems expertise; townhomes and smaller low-rise communities benefit from preventive maintenance and landscaping cadence. Across all types, our focus is on tenant and resident experience, asset preservation, and efficient leasing."
Where we manage rentals (and what each area needs), some examples.
We’re proud to support rental owners and residents in Surrey, Langley, Richmond, Burnaby, and Kelowna. Each area has distinct rental dynamics:- Surrey: High-rises in City Centre attract young professionals, while townhome rentals in Fleetwood and Clayton focus on family-friendly amenities.
- Langley: Willoughby’s rapid growth drives demand for condominium rentals; low rise buildings in Walnut Grove prioritize parking and proximity to schools.
- Richmond: Waterfront luxury condos near Steveston blend long-term rentals with premium services and access to trails and shops.
- Burnaby: Metrotown’s transit-oriented towers include a mix of market rentals and affordable housing; maintenance planning around elevators and chilled-water systems is critical.
- Kelowna: Seasonal swings shape leasing strategies for resort-style condominium rentals, including furnished options and flexible terms.
The bottom line
From tenant screening and leasing to capital planning and compliance, FirstService simplifies rental operations so owners can focus on strategy. Whether you manage high-rises, townhomes, or condominium rentals; industrial rental, luxury condos, or affordable housing, our combination of local expertise and national resources helps protect assets, enhance tenant and resident satisfaction, and keep you compliant with BC’s changing laws.What residents say about our rental communities
"Leasing was efficient and move-in was seamless—maintenance requests are handled quickly and the manager is always professional."
J.L., Walnut Grove (Langley)
"Our Surrey tower is well kept and communication is clear—Front desk and management make everyday living easy."To learn more about how FirstService Residential can support your rental property in British Columbia, contact us today.
M.K., Surrey City Centre