Are you renting a home in Alberta and facing issues with your landlord? Whether you're dealing with disagreements over rent, repairs, eviction notices, or general tenant rights, it's important to know that you don't need to handle these problems alone. Alberta has a dedicated tribunal to help landlords and tenants resolve disputes fairly—the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

Understanding Alberta's Dispute Resolution Process

The RTDRS is Alberta’s alternative to court for most residential tenancy disagreements. Established under the Residential Tenancies Act, the RTDRS is designed to be fast, accessible, and cost-effective for both tenants and landlords.^[1] You can use the RTDRS if you are a tenant or a landlord in Alberta, and your issue relates to matters like unpaid rent, eviction, or lack of repairs.

Key Functions of the RTDRS

• Hearing and deciding on tenant-landlord disputes such as rent arrears, lease breaches, and repairs.
• Issuing enforceable orders (similar to court judgments) that both parties must follow.
• Providing an alternative to the formal court process—hearings are often conducted by phone or video for convenience.

This ensures that tenants have a fair and official avenue for resolving issues quickly.

Common Issues the RTDRS Helps With

• Eviction process (for example, disputing a notice to vacate)
• Overdue rent (whether you are accused of being behind, or if the landlord claims you owe money)
• Repairs and maintenance complaints, such as when your landlord fails to address unsafe conditions or needed repairs. If you're unsure about your landlord's obligations, see our in-depth guide on Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
• Security deposit disputes, including when you believe your deposit hasn’t been returned correctly (for more information, check Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know).
• Health and safety problems impacting your quality of life

If your situation involves complex legal questions or amounts over $50,000, you may need to go through the Alberta Court of Justice instead.

Filing an Application with the RTDRS

If you can’t resolve your problem with your landlord directly, you can apply to the RTDRS. This process is designed to be accessible for tenants, even if you have no prior legal experience.

• Application for Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution (Form RTDRS001): Use this form to submit your dispute officially to the RTDRS. You must clearly state your issue (such as "my landlord refuses to complete urgent repairs" or "my landlord is withholding my security deposit").

What happens after you submit the form?

1. The RTDRS will contact you with your hearing date and instructions.
2. The hearing officer reviews evidence from both sides—this could include emails, photos, your lease, and more.
3. A decision and written order are issued, which both landlord and tenant must follow.

Your Rights and Responsibilities During the Dispute Process

Both tenants and landlords have clear rights under Alberta’s law. Understand your obligations—such as paying your rent on time and notifying the landlord of repair needs. Refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a summary of key provincial rules.

Relevant Legislation for Alberta Renters

• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA): Sets out the legal framework for rental agreements, security deposits, notice periods, evictions, and dispute resolution. You can review the full Residential Tenancies Act here.^[1]
• Regulations: Additional details can be found in the Residential Tenancy Exemption Regulation and the Residential Tenancies Ministerial Regulation, both accessible through Alberta’s government site.

All actions by the RTDRS are guided by these laws, so you know you're getting a fair process.

What Can’t the RTDRS Handle?

The RTDRS does not handle disputes about rent increases that are legal under the RTA, discrimination, or non-residential properties. For questions on legal rent increases, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know. If you feel your rights are being violated, consider seeking additional legal support.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Have all relevant documents ready—lease, receipts, emails with your landlord, and photos if needed.
• Be clear about what outcome you want (e.g., an order for repairs, return of deposit, ending the tenancy).
• Follow all timelines—late applications may be dismissed.

For more practical tips, explore our article on Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

You can also apply online and find step-by-step guides directly on the RTDRS website.

Alternatives and Additional Resources

If the RTDRS is not able to hear your case, or for certain types of claims (like discrimination), you may need the Alberta Court of Justice or the Alberta Human Rights Commission. Always ensure you’re using the right process for your unique situation.

For more rental housing options and to compare apartments or houses throughout Alberta or other provinces, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

1. How can I appeal an RTDRS decision?
   You have 30 days to appeal to the Alberta Court of King’s Bench. This usually requires specific grounds, such as an error in law or procedure.
2. What if my landlord doesn’t comply with an RTDRS order?
   RTDRS orders are enforceable. If your landlord doesn’t comply, you can file the order with the Court of Justice for enforcement.
3. Can the RTDRS help if my landlord refuses to do urgent repairs?
   Yes. File an application with the RTDRS, and have evidence ready showing what repairs are needed and how you’ve tried to resolve the situation.
4. Is there a fee to apply to the RTDRS?
   There is a standard application fee (typically $75, but fee waivers may be available if you face financial hardship). Details are available on the official RTDRS website.
5. Can roommates file separate applications?
   If the problem affects all tenants equally, you can file one joint application. For individual issues, file separately.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• The RTDRS is Alberta’s main resource for resolving common residential tenancy disputes promptly and fairly.
• Always keep documentation, communicate clearly, and review your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Consider RTDRS if direct negotiation with your landlord doesn't solve the issue—it's simpler and quicker than court.

Remember, knowing your rights is the best way to protect yourself as a tenant in Alberta.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): File applications, access forms, or get guides.
• Service Alberta Tenant & Landlord Advice: Provincial resources, fact sheets, and contacts for complaints or questions.
• Tenant hotlines and community legal clinics: For additional support and advocacy in your area.
• Review your key legal rights: See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, Alberta

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy