What counts as evidence at the RTDRS?
Visual media is commonly accepted so long as it is relevant and reliable. Photos and videos can show the extent of damage, ongoing leaks, pests, missing items, or unsafe entry. Use captions and a short written log to explain who took the media, when, and what it shows.
- Clear dated photos showing damage or repairs.
- Continuous or timestamped video demonstrating issues like leaks, pest activity, or entry.
- Receipts, invoices, and repair estimates that corroborate the images.
- Signed witness statements or text messages that reference the media and events.
How to take reliable photos and video
Follow simple practices so your media is persuasive and admissible. Use a phone or camera that saves date/time metadata, photograph context (wide shots) and details (close-ups), and include a common object for scale if size matters. If possible, keep a running short video showing the scene and pan slowly to capture context.
- Record the date and time on the device or keep a contemporaneous log entry for each file.
- Take both wide-angle shots and close-ups so the tribunal can see overall context and specific damage.
- Save originals; make copies for filing and sharing.
- Back up files to cloud storage or an external drive to prevent accidental loss.
Preparing your evidence package
Label files clearly (e.g., "KitchenLeak_2025-03-10_1.jpg") and create an index document that lists each file, date, short description, and how you obtained it. If you reference messages, receipts, or inspection reports, include them as numbered exhibits that match your index.
- Include a one-page index that lists each photo/video and a short explanation.
- Number exhibits consistently across printed copies and digital uploads.
- Attach corroborating documents like repair invoices or inspection reports.
Filing rules, forms and the tribunal
In Alberta, tenancy disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). For initial guidance and to start a claim, visit the RTDRS site[1]. The governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act; reference it for legal standards and timelines[2]. To file a claim you will typically use the RTDRS application form and follow the RTDRS filing instructions for evidence attachments[3].
Practical example: if you are claiming unpaid repairs, attach photos of the damage with dates, the repair invoice, a short index, and the RTDRS application. Clearly mark each item as Exhibit 1, Exhibit 2, etc., and include that same numbering in any printed binder you bring to the hearing.
At the hearing
Bring printed copies of your index and exhibits and have digital copies ready to share. Be prepared to explain each photo or video simply: who took it, when, and what it shows. If a device contains original files, the tribunal may ask about authenticity—explain how you saved and backed up the originals.
- Bring two printed copies of your evidence index and exhibits: one for the tribunal and one for the other party.
- Have digital files on a USB or cloud link and ensure they open without special software.
- If asked, describe how you took the photos/videos and who else, if anyone, witnessed the issues.
Common challenges and how to avoid them
Metadata can be altered; tribunals focus on the credibility of the evidence. Keep contemporaneous notes, witnesses' contact details, and original receipts. If a landlord disputes a timestamp, a witness or an independent third-party inspection report can help corroborate your claim.
- For repairs, show before-and-after images and the repair invoice to connect costs to actions.
- For entry or privacy breaches, include logs of dates/times and any messages from the landlord.
- For deposit disputes, pair photos of the unit at move-in and move-out with the initial inspection report.
FAQ
- Can I use photos and video as evidence at the RTDRS?
- Yes. Photos and videos are accepted evidence when they are relevant, clear, dated, and accompanied by a short explanation of what they show.
- How should I timestamp or date my media?
- Keep originals with embedded metadata when possible, note the date/time in a separate log, and label files with descriptive names that include the date.
- Do I need to bring original devices to the hearing?
- Bring originals if you can, but copies and a clear index are usually sufficient; be ready to explain how you preserved the originals.
How-To
- Gather clear photos and videos with device timestamps or contemporaneous notes.
- Save originals and create at least two backups, such as cloud storage and an external drive.
- Label each file and prepare a one-page index that lists exhibits and short descriptions.
- Attach supporting documents (receipts, messages, inspection reports) and number them to match your index.
- Submit your evidence with the RTDRS application and bring printed and digital copies to the hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Good photos and videos make disputes easier to understand.
- Save originals, keep backups, and prepare a clear index of exhibits.
- Use supporting documents like receipts and inspection reports to corroborate visual evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Alberta Queen's Printer (legislation and RTA)
- Government of Alberta: Residential Tenancies information
