What Are Expedited RTB Dispute Resolutions?
Some tenancy disputes are too urgent to wait for the regular hearing process. In British Columbia, the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) offers expedited dispute resolution hearings for serious, time-sensitive matters where a delay could result in harm or unfairness to one of the parties. This article explains when expedited hearings apply, how to request one, and the steps landlords and tenants must take to prepare and serve the necessary documents.
What Is an Expedited RTB Hearing?
Expedited hearings are designed for emergency tenancy issues. They are available to both landlords and tenants in cases where the matter is urgent and requires a faster resolution than the standard dispute resolution process allows.
The RTB typically schedules expedited hearings within 12 days of the application date. In even more serious cases, such as those involving violence or threats to health and safety, a hearing may be scheduled within 6 days.
If your application does not meet the urgency criteria, the RTB will notify you and may suggest submitting through the regular dispute resolution process instead.
What Situations Qualify for an Expedited Hearing?
Expedited hearings are reserved for specific emergency matters, including:
Early end to tenancy due to very serious breaches by the tenant
Illegal lockouts, where a landlord has removed a tenant or changed the locks without an RTB order
Emergency repairs related to safety or security issues in the rental unit
It’s important to note that not all urgent situations qualify. For example, the presence of mould alone is not considered a valid reason for an expedited hearing unless it presents an immediate health or safety threat.
The RTB considers each application individually. You will need to demonstrate that the issue is both urgent and serious enough to justify skipping the standard scheduling process.
How to Apply for an Expedited Hearing
To apply, landlords and tenants must complete the appropriate Application for Dispute Resolution and submit it with all supporting evidence at the time of application. There is no separate form for expedited hearings, urgency is indicated and justified within the standard application.
You can apply:
Online using a Basic BCeID account (registration takes just a few minutes)
In person at a Service BC location
By mail or fax
The application must include all documentation to support your request. This may include photographs, communication records, witness statements, or other evidence showing immediate harm, safety concerns, or illegal eviction.
If the RTB accepts your request, they will issue a Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding package, which includes instructions on how to serve the other party and prepare for the hearing.
Serving the Hearing Package
Once the RTB issues the notice, you have one day to serve the full hearing package to the respondent. This package includes:
The Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding
The Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12L-EXH or RTB-12T-EXH)
The Respondent’s Instructions and Order of the Director Respecting Service
The Expedited Dispute Resolution Process Fact Sheet (Form RTB-114E)
A complete copy of all evidence submitted
How you serve the package depends on the hearing date:
If the hearing is scheduled within 6 to 11 days of the application, the package must be served in person.
If the hearing is scheduled between 12 and 16 days, service may be completed:
In person
By posting it to the respondent’s door
By email (only if the person has provided that email as an official address for service)
Proof of service is mandatory and must be carefully documented.
Filing the Proof of Service
After serving the package, the applicant must submit Form RTB-9: Proof of Service – Notice of Expedited Hearing. This form must be submitted:
One day after the package is served, and
At least two days before the hearing
Failing to submit the proof of service on time may result in the hearing being rescheduled or cancelled.
Respondent Responsibilities
Once served, the respondent (the person receiving the application) must gather and submit their own evidence as soon as possible. This evidence must be provided in a complete package to both the RTB and the applicant at least two days before the hearing.
Rescheduling an Expedited Hearing
In order to reschedule an expedited hearing, both parties must agree in writing. The request must be made at least three days before the scheduled hearing date. If an agreement can’t be reached or the RTB isn’t informed in time, the hearing will go ahead as scheduled.
If the applicant fails to pick up the RTB’s notice package within one day of being notified, the application may be considered abandoned and the filing fee will not be refunded.
Final Tips for a Successful Expedited Hearing Request
Submit a clear and detailed explanation of why your issue is urgent
Include all supporting evidence with your application
Serve the hearing package correctly and within the strict timelines
Keep a copy of everything you submit and serve
Follow up promptly and carefully complete your proof of service form
