How to Add or Change a Hearing Representative (Alberta)

If you’re a tenant in Alberta dealing with a dispute—such as an eviction, rent increase, or issues with your landlord—you might be asked to appear at a hearing before the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Sometimes, you may want someone else to act on your behalf at the hearing. In Alberta, this is done formally using the Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form. This guide explains what the form is, how to use it, and what tenants need to know to protect their rights.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes in Alberta?

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is the provincial tribunal that resolves most landlord–tenant disputes in Alberta without the need to go to court. The RTDRS operates under the Residential Tenancies Act¹.

What Is the Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form?

This form allows a tenant or landlord to appoint a representative for their RTDRS hearing or change an existing representative. The official name is “Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form.” The RTDRS does not require a specific number for this form; it’s updated regularly, so always use the latest version from the RTDRS website.

Appointing a representative may be helpful if:

• You feel uncomfortable representing yourself in a dispute
• You are unavailable at the scheduled hearing time
• You wish to have an advocate, lawyer, or trusted support person speak on your behalf

Official Form: Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form (Government of Alberta)

Example Scenario for Tenants

Let’s say you’ve applied to the RTDRS because your landlord hasn’t addressed major repairs. However, you’ll be out of town on the hearing date. Using this form, you can formally appoint someone you trust—like a family member or advocate—to speak on your behalf. This protects your interests and ensures your case moves forward without delays.

How the Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form Works

Once submitted, your appointed representative gains the legal authority to act and speak for you at the hearing. They cannot change your case details without your permission, but they represent your side in evidence and testimony.

Key Steps to Complete the Form

• Download the latest Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form from the RTDRS official forms page.
• Carefully fill out your details and your proposed representative’s contact information.
• If changing an existing representative, include their information in the relevant section.
• Sign and date the form. Your representative may also need to sign.
• File the form with the RTDRS as soon as possible before the hearing—preferably several days in advance.
• You must also serve a copy of the completed form to the other party (usually your landlord).

The RTDRS will confirm receipt and update their records. Your representative must be ready to present your case on the hearing day. Make sure they have copies of all documents you plan to rely on. For tenants curious about what happens after hearings or issues related to post-agreement situations, review What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Who Can Be Your Hearing Representative?

You may appoint almost any adult you trust: a friend, family member, advocate, or a professional (including a lawyer or paralegal). Some tenant support agencies may also agree to represent tenants. Ensure your representative is available at the scheduled hearing time and understands your wishes.

What to Expect Next

Once the RTDRS processes your Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form, they’ll address all hearing correspondence to your appointed representative. Your representative can:

• Speak, give evidence, and ask questions during the hearing
• Receive official documents related to the case
• Negotiate settlements, if you wish

It’s up to you to stay in close communication with your representative before and during the process.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Alberta tenants have the right to fair hearings and may select their own representative. It is your duty to inform the tribunal and the other party of this change with reasonable notice. For a wider perspective on obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

To learn more about local Alberta rules and resources, check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to pay a fee to file the Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form?
   No, there is no fee to appoint or change a hearing representative for your RTDRS case in Alberta.
2. Can my landlord or their representative object to my chosen hearing representative?
   Generally, as long as your representative is a consenting adult and there is no conflict of interest, objections are rare. Only in special cases would the tribunal question your choice.
3. What happens if I forget to submit the form before the hearing?
   You might not be allowed to have your representative act for you if the form is late. Always submit it as early as possible before the hearing.
4. Can I attend the hearing with my representative?
   Yes, you may attend alongside your representative, but the representative speaks for you.
5. Where do I send the completed Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form?
   Send it to the RTDRS by email, fax, in person, or as directed on the RTDRS website. You must also give a copy to the other party in your dispute.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

• You are allowed to have a representative at RTDRS tenancy hearings by submitting the required form in advance.
• The Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form is an essential tool if you can’t attend your hearing in person or need help presenting your case.
• Always use the latest version from the RTDRS website and give the completed form to both the RTDRS and the other party as soon as possible.

In summary, appointing a hearing representative can relieve stress and ensure your side is clearly heard in tenancy disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) — File forms, find rules, and contact for questions
• Service Alberta – Landlord and Tenant Information
• Local Legal Aid or community legal clinics - for free or low-cost advice
• Tenant advocacy groups operating in Alberta – e.g., Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)

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1. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), Government of Alberta
3. RTDRS Add/Change a Hearing Representative Form, Alberta.ca

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