- 2.1.1 Who is right?
- 2.1.2 How can a landlord and tenant resolve a dispute themselves?
- 2.1.3 How can the Residential Tenancy Branch help resolve the dispute?
- 2.1.4 Is there a formal dispute resolution process?
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2.1.1 Who is right?
Before trying to resolve a tenancy issue, you should search this web site. You may find that your questions or issues are answered in these materials.
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2.1.2 How can a landlord and tenant resolve a dispute themselves?
If a landlord and tenant disagree about a tenancy issue, they should discuss the issue and try to work out a solution.
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2.1.3 How can the Residential Tenancy Branch help resolve the dispute?
If you have tried to negotiate with the other party and this has been unsuccessful, then you may request that a Residential Tenancy Branch Information Officer contact the other party to provide information about the rights, responsibilities and options under residential tenancy law. Please contact the Residential Tenancy Branch to speak with an Information Officer to discuss your circumstances.
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2.1.4 Is there a formal dispute resolution process?
If the landlord and tenant still can't reach agreement, either person can apply for a dispute resolution hearing. The person applying for dispute resolution must file an Application for Dispute Resolution within the time frames specified under the Residential Tenancy Act or Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act.
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A dispute resolution officer can hear a claim for money if the amount is less than $25,000. If it is a higher amount, a landlord or tenant must apply to the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
Following are some examples of when a tenant or a landlord may wish to apply for dispute resolution:
- A tenant may want to dispute a Notice to End Tenancy.
- A tenant may want a landlord to conduct repairs to the rental unit or property.
- A tenant may want to apply for monetary compensation from a landlord for a tenancy related issue or debt.
- A landlord may want to apply for an Order of Possession if the tenant won't leave on a specified date, or to claim money from the tenant for unpaid rent or damages.
Both parties should read RTB's document, Dispute Resolution Proceedings - Rules of Procedure (PDF)
You can also obtain these publications at a Residential Tenancy Branch office, or your local Government Agent's Office or B.C. Access Centre. You may also phone the Residential Tenancy Branch to order a copy.
