How do I know if my dispute should go to RTDRS or to court?

Most routine tenancy disputes (eviction, non-payment of rent, deposits, repairs) can be resolved by the RTDRS. However, if the value is very high or the case is unusually complex, Alberta Courts may be appropriate. Call the RTDRS for guidance if unsure.

Do I need a lawyer for a rental dispute in Alberta?

No lawyer is needed for RTDRS hearings—most tenants represent themselves. However, legal clinics like Legal Aid Alberta or Student Legal Services can offer advice or limited representation if you need support.

What happens at a RTDRS hearing?

Both tenant and landlord present evidence, answer questions, and receive a binding decision from a tenancy dispute officer. Hearings are less formal than court and usually faster to resolve.

Can I appeal an RTDRS decision?

Yes. RTDRS decisions can be appealed to the Alberta Court of King’s Bench within 30 days, but grounds for appeal are limited (usually legal errors).

Which law protects Alberta tenants?

Tenant and landlord rights in Alberta are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act.

How Alberta Tenants Can Get Legal Support for LTB Disputes

Dispute Resolution & LTB Alberta published July 01, 2025

When rental issues in Alberta reach a boiling point—whether it’s a dispute over unpaid rent, disagreements on repairs, or questions about eviction—knowing where to turn for legal support is crucial. Alberta tenants have clear rights and accessible resources to help them address disputes fairly and effectively. Understanding your options for legal support, dispute resolution, and the steps you can take makes all the difference in protecting your home and peace of mind.

Dispute Resolution in Alberta: Who Helps Tenants?

In Alberta, disputes between tenants and landlords are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) and Alberta Courts. The RTDRS offers a cost-effective, quicker alternative to court for most rental disagreements—including those about unpaid rent, eviction notices, repairs, and return of deposits.^[1]

What Types of Disputes Can Be Resolved?

The most common disputes handled by RTDRS include:

Non-payment of rent or late rent issues
Termination of tenancy or eviction concerns
Disagreements over damage deposits
Maintenance and repair complaints
Breach of lease terms

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta guide offers a helpful overview of legislation and your protections.

Key Alberta Tenancy Legislation

The main law governing rental housing in Alberta is the Residential Tenancies Act. This act outlines both tenant and landlord rights—from eviction procedures to proper notice for rent increases.

Choosing the Right Legal Support

Tenants have several resources to turn to for legal help in Alberta:

RTDRS for most disputes (like deposits and evictions)
Alberta Courts for complex or high-value claims
Legal Aid Alberta and community legal clinics for free or low-cost legal assistance
Online toolkits and advocacy groups

Consider the complexity and value of your issue when deciding which support is right for you. For example, an unresolved issue with routine repairs should first be addressed with your landlord directly; if unresolved, it can be escalated to the RTDRS. If the issue involves urgent health or safety problems, you can learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Important Forms for Alberta Tenants (RTDRS)

To file a dispute, you’ll need to complete specific forms provided by the RTDRS. Here are several key examples:

Application for Dispute Resolution (RTDRS 1): Use this form to officially start your application for an RTDRS hearing. For example, if your landlord refuses to return your damage deposit, you’d complete this form to request a hearing. View the form.
Notice of Default Payment (if applicable): This notifies your landlord or tenant about seeking damages or unpaid rent. View the form.
Notice of Hearing: Issued to both sides when a hearing is scheduled. After applying, you’ll receive this notice with your hearing date and information.

After submitting forms, you may need to serve documents to your landlord or tenant, following precise procedures outlined by the RTDRS. For more in-depth advice on handling everyday rental problems, visit Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Action Steps: What Should Tenants Do First?

Before seeking legal resolution, it’s smart to try communicating with your landlord in writing. State the problem, what you want, and your deadline for reply. Save all communications in case you need to make a formal application.

Gather evidence (photos, email records, receipts).
Review your lease and the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act.
Complete the correct RTDRS application form if your issue isn’t resolved.

Tip: Always keep copies of applications, notices, and RTDRS decisions for your records.

For helpful rental search tools, you can explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find your next home or compare rental prices.

FAQ: Legal Support & Alberta Tenancy Disputes

How do I know if my dispute should go to RTDRS or to court?
Most routine tenancy disputes (eviction, non-payment of rent, deposits, repairs) can be resolved by the RTDRS. However, if the value is very high or the case is unusually complex, Alberta Courts may be appropriate. Call the RTDRS for guidance if unsure.
Do I need a lawyer for a rental dispute in Alberta?
No lawyer is needed for RTDRS hearings—most tenants represent themselves. However, legal clinics like Legal Aid Alberta or Student Legal Services can offer advice or limited representation if you need support.
What happens at a RTDRS hearing?
Both tenant and landlord present evidence, answer questions, and receive a binding decision from a tenancy dispute officer. Hearings are less formal than court and usually faster to resolve.
Can I appeal an RTDRS decision?
Yes. RTDRS decisions can be appealed to the Alberta Court of King’s Bench within 30 days, but grounds for appeal are limited (usually legal errors).
Which law protects Alberta tenants?
Tenant and landlord rights in Alberta are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act.

How To: Filing a Dispute with the RTDRS in Alberta

How do I start a rental dispute at RTDRS?
Fill out the Application for Dispute Resolution (RTDRS 1) and submit it online or in person. RTDRS will give you a Notice of Hearing, which you must serve on your landlord (or tenant).
How do I serve my documents after filing?
Use service methods allowed by RTDRS (such as personal delivery, mail, or email if agreed). Keep proof of service for your hearing.
How can I prepare for my RTDRS hearing?
Gather all evidence (communications, photos, receipts) and organize your arguments. You’ll have a chance to present your case and answer questions during the hearing.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants

Disputes over rent, deposits, repairs, or evictions can be resolved by RTDRS without a lawyer.
Key forms and applications are available online—act quickly and keep good records.
The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta page is your go-to resource on local laws.

If you’re unsure what to do next, don’t hesitate to access community legal help or contact RTDRS staff for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – File or check dispute applications and review helpful guides
LegalAve – Free legal information from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta
Legal Aid Alberta – Legal support for qualifying tenants
Contact your local community legal clinic or dial 211 Alberta for additional tenant advocacy resources
For a complete legal summary, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta