When tenants and landlords face disputes in Alberta, resolving the issue quickly, fairly, and with as little stress as possible is a top priority. The two primary routes available at the province’s Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)—mediation and adjudication—each offer different ways to find a solution. Knowing the key differences can help Alberta tenants choose the best approach for their circumstances, from rent disagreements to maintenance or eviction issues.

Understanding Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)

In Alberta, rental disputes are handled through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), which serves as an accessible alternative to court. This tribunal provides mediation and formal hearings for most landlord-tenant issues in accordance with the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta).¹

RTDRS is designed to be tenant-friendly, avoiding unnecessary legal complexity and giving both sides a fair opportunity to resolve problems.

What is Mediation at Alberta’s RTDRS?

Mediation is an informal process where tenants and landlords work out a mutually acceptable solution with the help of a neutral mediator. This process can be voluntary or suggested by the RTDRS when both parties apply for a dispute resolution hearing. Mediation is confidential, flexible, and often less stressful than formal hearings.

• A trained mediator helps guide the conversation
• Both parties are encouraged to share concerns and explore options
• If an agreement is reached, it is written up as a binding settlement

How Mediation Works at RTDRS

Tenants and landlords are asked at the start of their RTDRS application if they are willing to attempt mediation. If both agree, a teleconference or in-person session is scheduled with a mediator before any formal hearing is set.

Example: If a tenant is disputing withheld repairs and the landlord wants overdue rent paid, mediation could help them agree on a partial payment and set a clear timeline for repairs.

What is Adjudication at Alberta’s RTDRS?

Adjudication is a formal hearing process, similar to going to court, where both sides present evidence and make their case to a decision-maker (adjudicator). The adjudicator will then make a legally binding decision based on Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act.¹

• The hearing takes place in-person, by video, or over the phone
• Formal rules and evidence apply
• The adjudicator’s decision is binding and enforceable like a court order

Adjudication is best when mediation fails or when the dispute is serious—for example, issues like eviction orders or significant damages.

Mediation vs. Adjudication: Pros, Cons, and Choosing the Right Path

Choosing between these two depends on your unique situation, urgency, and relationship with your landlord:

• Mediation Pros: Less formal, faster, and often keeps relationships positive.
• Mediation Cons: Requires both parties to be willing; if no agreement is reached, you may still need adjudication.
• Adjudication Pros: Ensures a clear, enforceable result when parties can’t agree.
• Adjudication Cons: Can be stressful, formal, and may take longer.

Many disputes over Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know or obligations often begin with mediation. More complex cases, such as late rent or eviction, might proceed to adjudication if no settlement is made.

The Application Process and Official Forms

To start either process, tenants usually submit the "Application for Dispute Resolution" to the RTDRS:

• Form: Application for Dispute Resolution (RTDRS Form)
• When to Use: If you have unresolved issues such as withheld deposits, eviction notices, or major maintenance disputes
• How It’s Used: The applicant fills out details of the dispute, attaches any supporting documents (such as your lease agreement, rent receipts, or correspondence), and submits it online or in-person to RTDRS. Both parties will be informed if mediation is possible, or whether a hearing date is set.

Here are the general steps to apply:

• Download and complete the Application for Dispute Resolution
• Attach all supporting documents
• Submit the application to RTDRS and pay the required fee
• RTDRS will contact both parties to discuss mediation or set a hearing date

After the Decision

If settlement is reached through mediation, both sides sign a mediated agreement, which is enforceable. If adjudication occurs, the adjudicator's written decision is delivered to both parties, setting out the orders (such as payment directions or requiring repairs).

Your rights and responsibilities continue after your rental dispute—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more details.

For tenants wanting to explore homes in different cities if a dispute prompts a move, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide range of listings.

For a broader look at your rights as an Alberta tenant, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

FAQ: Mediation and Adjudication at Alberta’s LTB

1. Can I request mediation, or will the LTB assign it?
   You can indicate on your RTDRS application if you’re open to mediation. Both sides must agree, but the RTDRS will explain your options and may suggest mediation at any stage.
2. Is mediation better for small issues while adjudication is for serious problems?
   Mediation is generally suited to communication-based or negotiable disputes. Adjudication is usually for cases where parties cannot agree or the law must be strictly applied.
3. What happens if we can’t agree in mediation?
   If no agreement is reached, your dispute will proceed to a formal RTDRS hearing (adjudication).
4. Are mediated agreements legally binding?
   Yes. Agreements reached in mediation and signed by both parties can be enforced as though they are orders of the RTDRS.
5. Where can I get help preparing my RTDRS application?
   Tenant advocacy centres, legal clinics, and the RTDRS itself offer resources to help with forms and supporting evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Mediation and adjudication both help Alberta tenants resolve disputes under the Residential Tenancies Act
• Mediation is informal, faster, and keeps things cooperative, but adjudication ensures a binding decision if needed
• Understanding the process and forms helps you confidently navigate Alberta’s RTDRS

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): Information line and online portal for dispute applications
• Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta): The main provincial law governing tenant and landlord rights
• Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta: Clear legal guides for tenants
• Local tenants’ advisory services and legal clinics for application help and dispute advice

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) – official provincial legislation
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta Government

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