Delays in tenancy dispute resolution can be stressful, especially when you're waiting for repairs, trying to stop an eviction, or need your issue addressed promptly. In Alberta, the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is the main body responsible for resolving landlord-tenant conflicts. Unfortunately, wait times for hearings have increased in recent years, leaving many tenants wondering what they can do while their case is pending. This guide explains practical steps Alberta tenants can take, how the process works, and where to find reliable support.

Understanding RTDRS and Common Sources of Delay

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles disputes such as evictions, rent arrears, repairs, and deposit returns for most Alberta tenants. The service offers a more accessible alternative to court, but it is experiencing significant delays for several reasons:

• High volume of applications and case backlogs
• Complex cases needing extra information or evidence
• Staff shortages or limited scheduling availability

Some tenants have waited many weeks for their hearing date. If your case is urgent, understanding the RTDRS's process and your action options is vital.

What Can Tenants Do While Waiting?

Although hearing delays may feel out of your control, there are concrete steps that tenants can take:

• Document everything. Keep thorough notes, photos, and correspondence related to your issue.
• Continue paying rent (unless your issue is about non-payment and you are arguing for a rent abatement; seek legal advice first).
• If your case involves urgent health and safety issues (such as necessary repairs), report them to your landlord and to local bylaw or health inspectors as needed. See Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for guidance.
• Consider using a mediation service if both you and your landlord agree.
• If your situation worsens (e.g., threat of lockout or unsafe living conditions), contact local tenant advocacy or Alberta Health Services for immediate intervention.

Proactive communication and good recordkeeping help protect your rights if your hearing is delayed.

Official Forms and When to Use Them

When dealing with the RTDRS, being familiar with official forms is important:

• Form 7 – Application for Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution
  Use: To file your dispute with RTDRS (for issues like unpaid rent, repairs, evictions).
  Get the Form 7 application
  Example: Sarah, a tenant, uses Form 7 to request an order for essential repairs not completed by her landlord.
• Form 8 – Request to Expedite a Hearing
  Use: If your case involves immediate risk to health or safety, or urgent loss of housing, you may ask RTDRS to schedule your hearing sooner.
  Access Form 8 (Expedite Request)
  Example: Ahmed is facing illegal lockout and uses Form 8 to request an urgent hearing date.

Always attach supporting documents with your application.

Expediting Your Application: What Qualifies?

You may request an expedited hearing if:

• Your safety is at risk
• There is imminent risk of homelessness (e.g., lockout or unlawful eviction)
• There are severe threats to health (lack of heat, water, etc.)

In these scenarios, file both your main application and the expedite request with as much detail and evidence as possible.

Action Steps If Your Case Is Delayed

• Contact RTDRS at their official site to check your hearing status.
• Submit a written request for an update if your wait time seems excessive. Be polite and include your file number.
• For urgent cases, complete and submit Form 8 as above.
• Seek support from tenant resources or legal aid if the delay causes hardship.
• Review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for more on your legal options.

If you need to resolve common rental issues—such as maintenance, communication breakdowns, or deposit disputes—see also Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Relevant Legislation

Alberta tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta)^[1]. The RTDRS procedures also follow this legislation.

Stay Informed: Track Your Case and Local Resources

Check your application status online or by phone with RTDRS. Each city may have local organizations that can help tenants facing lengthy delays. For more about housing rights and Alberta-specific updates, visit Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Dealing With RTDRS Delays in Alberta

1. What if my landlord tries to evict me while I wait for a hearing?
   If you have a pending RTDRS application, notify your landlord. Only a court or the RTDRS can order an eviction—it is illegal for landlords to remove you without proper process.
2. Can I stop paying rent if my application is delayed?
   No, you must continue paying rent unless RTDRS or a court says otherwise. Withholding rent could risk eviction.
3. How do I request an urgent hearing at RTDRS?
   Use Form 8—Request to Expedite a Hearing, and include all evidence of urgency (such as medical notes or photos of severe hazards).
4. Is there a fee for applying to RTDRS?
   Yes, but fee waivers may be available if you have low income. Check RTDRS's website for details.
5. How long do RTDRS hearings usually take?
   Processing times vary. Simple cases may be heard within a few weeks, but complex or high-volume periods cause delays.

Conclusion: Key Steps for Tenants Facing Delays

• Stay proactive: keep records and follow up with RTDRS as needed.
• Use expedited application procedures for urgent situations.
• Reach out to tenant support organizations if delays cause serious hardship.

Understanding your rights and the process helps you stay prepared and protected during dispute resolution delays.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): File and check applications, access forms.
• Government of Alberta – Residential Tenancies: Information on laws and regulations.
• Provincial tenant support and legal aid services: Search local non-profit tenant rights organizations for individualized support.
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a full overview of your protections.

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1. Alberta. Residential Tenancies Act (RSA 2004, Chapter R-17.1)
2. RTDRS Official Website

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