If you have an RTDRS order in Alberta and the other party will not comply, this guide explains in plain language how tenants and renters can enforce and collect on those orders. You will find clear steps for money judgments and possession orders, which Alberta bodies and forms are involved, typical timelines and likely costs, and practical tips to prepare evidence. This article is written for non‑lawyers and focuses on what a tenant can do right now, how to use official RTDRS resources, and when to ask for help from enforcement offices or legal services in Alberta.
What RTDRS enforcement means in Alberta
The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) issues orders to resolve disputes between tenants and landlords in Alberta. If the other party does not follow an RTDRS order, a tenant may need to take steps to enforce it to collect money owed or to regain possession of a rental unit. The RTDRS is an administrative tribunal run by the Alberta government and has guidance on filing and next steps.[1]
Before you start enforcement
- Gather the RTDRS decision, any written order, receipts, photos and messages that support the amount or possession claim.
- Check the order for deadlines, payment dates or vacate dates so you understand any timelines you must meet.
- Decide whether the order is for money (a monetary judgment) or for possession (vacating the unit); enforcement options differ by type.
- Calculate the total owed, including any interest stated in the order, and keep an itemized record.
How to convert an RTDRS decision into an enforceable document
Some RTDRS orders can be enforced directly while others require registration or an enforcement step with a civil enforcement office (Sheriff). Commonly you will: request a certified copy of the RTDRS order, confirm whether the order is already enforceable as a judgment, and, if required, file the order with the appropriate enforcement office to request seizure of assets or eviction for possession. The RTDRS and provincial pages explain the required forms and next steps in Alberta.[1]
Official forms and how tenants use them
- RTDRS application and decision documents (see the RTDRS forms page): used to obtain or request specific orders and to get certified copies for enforcement; for example, you would request a certified decision to give to Civil Enforcement when asking to seize assets.[3]
- Enforcement request to Civil Enforcement (Sheriff) in Alberta: used when you need the Sheriff to carry out seizures or evictions; for example, submit the certified RTDRS order with the Sheriff request to arrange a writ for possession or seizure.[2]
Practical example: a tenant awarded $1,200 for unpaid repairs would obtain a certified RTDRS decision, calculate interest if permitted, then submit those documents to Civil Enforcement to request seizure of assets or payment arrangements.
Common enforcement paths
- Collecting money: register or present the RTDRS order to Civil Enforcement to pursue garnishment, seizure or a payment compliance plan.
- Obtaining possession: ask Civil Enforcement to carry out an eviction order once any required notice periods have passed.
- Negotiation and payment plans: some tenants and landlords resolve enforcement by agreeing to a payment plan and filing a consent with RTDRS.
FAQ
- How long does enforcement usually take?
- Timing varies: simple money collections can take weeks, while evictions may require additional notices and can take longer depending on Sheriff availability and scheduling.
- Can I enforce an RTDRS order myself without paying fees?
- Some administrative steps are free, but civil enforcement actions such as Sheriff attendance typically charge fees; check the Alberta Civil Enforcement site for current fees.[2]
- What if the other party says they will not pay or leave?
- Gather your certified order and contact Civil Enforcement to start formal enforcement; consider free tenant legal advice if you need help preparing documents.
How-To
- Locate and print the certified RTDRS decision and any supporting evidence (receipts, photos, communication).
- Visit the RTDRS forms and information pages to confirm which certified copy or form you need.[3]
- Contact Alberta Civil Enforcement (Sheriff) to ask about filing the order and which enforcement options are available.[2]
- Submit the required documents and pay any filing or Sheriff fees to begin garnishment, seizure, or eviction.
- Keep copies of everything and follow up if you do not see progress; request receipts for any payments or enforcement actions completed.
Key Takeaways
- Get a certified copy of the RTDRS order before seeking enforcement.
- Use Alberta Civil Enforcement for seizures or evictions and expect fees for those services.
- Document everything clearly to improve the chance of successful enforcement.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) - Government of Alberta
- [2] Civil Enforcement (Sheriff) - Government of Alberta
- [3] RTDRS forms and guidance - Government of Alberta
