How to File a Tenancy Dispute with the RTB in BC
If you're dealing with a tenancy issue in British Columbia, this guide outlines the process of filing a dispute through the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), including application steps, fees, deadlines, and how to serve documents properly.
Step 1: Confirm the RTB Has Jurisdiction
Before applying, ensure your issue falls under the RTB’s authority. The RTB resolves disputes between landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancy Act. Common dispute topics include rent, evictions, repairs, deposits, and notices to end tenancy.
The RTB does not handle:
Roommate conflicts
Commercial tenancies
Short-term vacation rentals
Co-op housing
For more details, refer to the RTB’s jurisdiction guidelines.
Step 2: Try to Resolve the Dispute First
Before filing an official dispute, consider resolving the issue directly with the other party. An agreement can often be reached informally or with the help of legal guidance. Any agreement should be clearly documented in writing.
Step 3: Submit Your RTB Application
You can apply in one of the following ways:
Online using a Basic BCeID
In person at Service BC or RTB offices
By mail or fax
Application Fee: $100 (fee waivers are available for low-income applicants)
When you file, you will be referred to as the Applicant, and the other party will be the Respondent. Use accurate legal names. For landlords, you can confirm the legal name through a land title search if needed.
Step 4: Know the Application Deadlines
Deadlines for applying to the RTB vary depending on the type of dispute. Many are strictly enforced.
For eviction notices:
10-day notice (non-payment of rent): Apply within 5 days
1-month notice (cause): Apply within 10 days
2-month notice: Apply within 15 days
3-month notice: Apply within 21 days
4-month notice (typically for renovation or demolition): Apply within 30 days
If these deadlines are missed, the RTB may reject the application, and the eviction can proceed. In rare cases, late applications may be accepted if the move-out date has not yet passed.
For monetary claims:
Applications must be submitted within two years of the tenancy ending. This includes claims for:
Security and pet deposits
Unpaid rent
Damages to the unit
Breaches of the tenancy agreement
The same two-year rule applies to both landlords and tenants. In certain cases, such as when a cross-application is filed in response to an ongoing dispute, claims may still be considered if submitted before the hearing begins, even if the two-year period has expired.
Step 5: Serve the Application Package
After your hearing is scheduled, you’ll receive a Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding from the RTB. You must serve this package to the other party using one of the following legal methods:
In person
By registered mail
By email (only if the recipient has provided written consent)
By leaving it with an adult at the residence
If the other party is avoiding service, you can apply for substituted service by showing proof that you attempted to serve the documents.
Step 6: Amend or Withdraw Your Application
If your situation changes, you may:
Amend your application using RTB Form RTB-23
Withdraw your application using RTB Form RTB-26
The RTB will decide whether any amendments are fair to both parties.
Once your application is submitted and the Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding has been properly served, you can begin preparing for the hearing. Learn how to prepare for your RTB hearing here.
