RTB to Launch Public Monetary Order Database
The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) will begin publishing all monetary orders issued on or after July 31, 2025 in a public and searchable online database, as part of an effort to increase transparency and accountability in rental disputes across British Columbia.
Under this new system, monetary orders will be published at least 15 days after the final decision, allowing parties time to review the outcome and, if necessary, request an exemption based on safety concerns.
What Information Will Be Made Public?
The following details will appear in the public database for each monetary order:
Full names of the landlord and tenant
The dispute file number
The rental unit address
The amount of money owed and who is responsible for payment
This information will be accessible to the public unless an exemption request is submitted and approved.
Exemptions Available for Safety Reasons
The RTB acknowledges that publishing this information may pose a risk to individuals in certain situations. If someone can demonstrate that publication creates a credible threat to their safety, they may apply for an exemption.
To qualify, applicants must show that they face a safety risk and meet one or more of the following criteria:
Have experienced or are currently experiencing family or intimate partner violence
Are employed in the justice sector (e.g., police, prosecutors, judges)
Are subject to a protective order or have an active safety plan in place
Face threats from a third party that endanger their personal safety
How to Apply for an Exemption
Step 1: Complete the Application
Fill out Form RTB-59: Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication. The form asks for a clear explanation of how publication may harm your safety.
Step 2: Submit Your Request
Email the completed form to HSRTO@gov.bc.ca with the subject line “Exemption Request.” You can also get help by contacting the RTB directly or visiting a Service BC office in person.
Step 3: Provide Supporting Documentation
After reviewing the application, the RTB may request documents to support your claim, such as:
A letter from a victim services worker, social worker, legal advocate, or law enforcement official
A copy of a restraining order or protection order
A sworn affidavit explaining the safety concerns
Applicants should be aware that under the Residential Tenancy Act and the Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act, submitting false or misleading information in an exemption request may result in administrative penalties.
Important Reminders
Exemption requests apply only to the current monetary order. If you are named in another order in the future, you must submit a new request.
Without an approved exemption, monetary orders will be published 15 days after a decision is made.
The RTB’s initiative is intended to balance public access to dispute outcomes with the need to protect individuals who may be placed at risk by the release of identifying information.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The Residential Tenancy Act, Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act, and related policies may change over time. How the law applies will depend on your specific circumstances. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch directly or consult a qualified legal professional.
