What is the RTDRS?
The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is the Alberta tribunal that resolves many landlord and tenant disputes, including eviction and rent issues, through hearings and written decisions. For official information about the service and where hearings are held see the RTDRS pages on the Government of Alberta website[1]. The RTDRS handles most residential tenancy disputes outside the civil courts and aims to be faster and more accessible than going to court.
When you can ask for an adjournment
Adjournments are not automatic. The RTDRS will consider reasonable reasons and whether the request causes unfair delay to the other party. Common reasons tenants request adjournments include illness, needing time to get documents, or waiting for legal advice or representation.
- Illness or a medical emergency that prevents you from attending the hearing.
- New evidence or documents you could not reasonably obtain before the scheduled date.
- Scheduled legal representation or witness availability conflicts.
- Serious scheduling conflicts such as court obligations or unavoidable travel.
How to request an adjournment
Make a written request to the RTDRS as soon as possible and copy the landlord or their representative. Explain the reason, include supporting documents, and propose alternative dates if you can. If a specific RTDRS form exists for rescheduling, use it and attach any evidence supporting your request (for example a medical note or proof of a required appointment). Refer to the tribunal instructions and applicable forms on the official RTDRS pages for the exact filing method and contact information[3].
- Prepare a concise written request that states your full name, the file number, the hearing date, and the reason you need an adjournment.
- Attach supporting documents (medical notes, proof of attempts to obtain evidence, or a letter from a lawyer) to show why the adjournment is needed.
- Serve or email the request to the RTDRS office and to the landlord or their representative, following RTDRS service rules.
- Ask for a reasonable alternative hearing date or suggest a short postponement period (for example, 14 or 30 days) and explain why that timeframe works.
- Keep records of delivery (email receipts, stamped copies) and be prepared to attend if the adjournment is denied.
Forms you may need
Common RTDRS filings include the initial application to start a dispute and specific request forms or email templates for scheduling changes. Tenants should look for an "Application to RTDRS" (the main hearing application) and any published form or guidance titled "Request to Adjourn" or "Request to Reschedule" on the RTDRS site. Use the official forms page when filing to ensure you meet format and fee rules[3]. For example, a tenant who fell ill the week before the hearing would attach a doctor’s note to a written adjournment request and submit it immediately to the tribunal and the landlord.
Evidence and documentation
When asking for an adjournment, include clear evidence so the RTDRS can assess your request quickly. Prioritize documents that directly explain why you could not prepare in time or why attending is impossible on the scheduled date.
- Medical notes or hospital documentation if illness prevents attendance.
- Correspondence showing efforts to obtain evidence or legal advice.
- Confirmation from a representative or witness who cannot attend the scheduled date.
What happens after you request an adjournment?
The RTDRS will review your request and evidence, and it may allow the adjournment, deny it, or offer a shorter postponement than requested. If the adjournment is granted, you will receive a new hearing date. If it is denied, be prepared to attend the original hearing date and present any available evidence.
FAQ
- Can I request an adjournment at the hearing itself?
- Yes, but it is better to request an adjournment before the hearing date. Requests made at the hearing may be granted only in exceptional circumstances and are less likely to succeed without prior notice and supporting documents.
- Do I need a lawyer to ask for an adjournment?
- No. Tenants can request an adjournment without a lawyer. Clear written reasons and supporting documents improve your chance of success; a lawyer can help but is not required.
- Will asking for an adjournment hurt my case?
- Not if you provide reasonable reasons and evidence. The tribunal balances fairness to both parties, so unexplained or late requests may be refused.
How-To
- Identify the reason and gather supporting evidence (medical note, correspondence, proof of attempts to secure documents).
- Draft a concise written request including your name, file number, current hearing date and suggested alternatives.
- Serve the request to the RTDRS and the other party using the tribunal's required method (email or mail) and keep proof of service.
- Wait for the tribunal decision and prepare to attend if the adjournment is denied or to appear on the new date if granted.
Key Takeaways
- Ask for an adjournment as early as possible and provide clear reasons and supporting documents.
- Use official RTDRS forms or guidance when available to ensure correct filing.
- Keep records of service and all communications with the tribunal and landlord.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - Government of Alberta
- Tenant information - Government of Alberta
- Residential Tenancies Act - Alberta Queen's Printer
