Email Filing and Electronic Submissions at the LTB

Many Alberta renters face confusing rules when the tribunal allows email filing or electronic evidence. This guide explains how Alberta tenants can submit claims, responses, and supporting documents electronically to the province’s dispute service, what forms to use, how deadlines work, and how to protect personal information. You’ll get clear, practical steps for naming files, combining photos and PDFs, and confirming receipt. The goal is to help tenants prepare effective submissions, meet filing requirements, and avoid common mistakes when pursuing repairs, rent disputes, or eviction matters. If you need help understanding forms or timelines, the guidance below points to official steps and sources specific to Alberta tenants.

How electronic filing works in Alberta

Alberta’s residential tenancy disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), which accepts certain electronic filings and evidence for many residential tenancy matters. See the RTDRS guidance and filing options for details and submission addresses Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)^[1]. The RTDRS is separate from court and has its own timelines, so confirm whether your issue should go to RTDRS or to a court before filing.

Official forms you may need

Common RTDRS forms include the Application for Dispute Resolution and the Response to an Application. The Application for Dispute Resolution is what a tenant files to start a case (for example, a tenant seeking an order for repairs or a rent issue) and the Response is used by the other party to answer the application. Both forms and instructions are provided by Service Alberta on the RTDRS forms page RTDRS forms and guides^[2]. When you file by email you will typically attach a completed form plus your evidence (photos, receipts, leases).

Accepted file types, size limits, and naming

RTDRS usually accepts common formats such as PDF, JPG, PNG, and sometimes MPEG for short videos. If you scan pages, combine them into a single PDF per document type (for example, one PDF for the lease, one for receipts). Name files clearly and include the date and a short description, such as "2026-03-15_rent_receipts.pdf". If you have many photos, combine them into one PDF or mark the files numerically with a short explanatory index.

Deadlines, proof of service, and evidence rules

Deadlines matter: applications, responses, and evidence must be filed by the tribunal deadlines described in RTDRS procedures. If a rule requires you to serve a document on the other party "within" a set number of days, note that "within" counts calendar days unless the tribunal says otherwise.

• Always file and serve documents well before the deadline to allow for email delivery delays.
• When filing forms, include a short cover email listing attached documents and the case name.
• Keep originals and a clear record of what you emailed, including timestamps and confirmation receipts.

If you are unsure how to present a complaint or document a repair problem, these plain guides can help you prepare evidence and organize your request: How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Practical steps before you email a filing

1. Complete the correct RTDRS form and save a PDF copy for your records.
2. Assemble evidence files and combine related items into labelled PDFs.
3. Prepare a plain cover email that lists attachments and identifies the parties and the tenancy address.
4. Send the email from an address you check often and request a read or delivery receipt if possible.
5. Keep copies of sent emails and confirmations; print or save screenshots showing the sent time.
6. Redact personal identifiers not required for the dispute, such as SIN numbers, and protect banking details when possible.

FAQ

Can I file my RTDRS application by email if I live in Alberta?

Yes. RTDRS accepts certain electronic filings; check the RTDRS page for current email addresses and any case-specific requirements before sending your application.

What evidence should I attach to my application?

Attach relevant documents such as the lease, photos, receipts, repair requests, and a timeline. Combine where appropriate and label attachments so the tribunal and the other party can follow your case.

How do I prove I served documents on the other party?

Keep copies of sent emails, delivery confirmations, and any replies. If the tribunal requires a specific method of service, follow that instruction exactly and include proof in your filing.

How-To

1. Download and complete the correct RTDRS form for your issue.
2. Collect evidence: lease, photos, receipts, repair notices, and a short timeline of events.
3. Convert all documents to PDF and name each file with date and description.
4. Write a concise cover email that lists attachments, the case name, and the request you are making.
5. Send the email to the RTDRS filing address shown on the official page and ask for confirmation of receipt.
6. Save the sent email and any confirmations; bring copies to any hearing or mediation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – filing information
• Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) – legislation
• Tenant information and guides from Service Alberta

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1. [1] Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - Alberta
2. [2] RTDRS forms and guides - Service Alberta
3. [3] Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) - Queen's Printer