If you’re a tenant in British Columbia who has received an eviction order, it’s important to know that you have rights and options. The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) oversees tenancies in BC, and tenants may appeal eviction orders through a formal process. This guide explains your appeal rights, deadlines, key forms, and essential resources—helping you navigate this challenging time with confidence.

Understanding Eviction Orders and Appeal Rights in BC

An eviction order is a written directive from the RTB after a dispute resolution hearing, requiring a tenant to vacate a rental unit. If you believe the decision was unfair or based on errors, you may apply for a review. The appeal process is called a "Request for Review Consideration." This mechanism allows tenants to have certain eviction decisions re-examined—and, in rare circumstances, suspended—if compelling reasons exist.

Who Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes?

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the official body managing these matters in BC.

The RTB applies the Residential Tenancy Act, which outlines tenants’ rights and responsibilities in British Columbia.^[1]

How Do I Appeal an Eviction Order? Steps for Tenants

To appeal an eviction order, you must act quickly. Most reviews must be filed within two days of receiving the original decision. Not every eviction order is eligible, so check your eligibility and gather evidence to support your request.

• Time-sensitive: Most review requests require action within 2 days of receiving the original order.
• Only certain grounds (like arbitration errors or new evidence) are accepted; appeals cannot be filed simply because you disagree with the outcome.

Key Form: Request for Review Consideration (RTB–12)

• Form name: Request for Review Consideration (RTB–12)
• When to use: If you believe there was a mistake in law or procedure, or you have new evidence that could not have been presented at your hearing.
• Where to get it: Download the official RTB–12 form.
• How to submit: Submit in person, by mail, or electronically to the RTB immediately after receiving your order.

Example: If you only learned of key documents after the hearing due to reasons outside your control, you can attach this new evidence to your RTB–12 form and request a review.

What Grounds Qualify for a Review?

• The decision was made without evidence or because of a serious procedural error.
• You have new and significant evidence that could not have been presented at the original hearing.
• The order was obtained fraudulently or due to misrepresentation.

If your request is valid, the RTB will notify the landlord, and the eviction order may be suspended until a new hearing is held.

Deadlines and What Happens Next

Most requests must be filed within two days of the original decision, except fraud-related requests (which may have longer windows). Once filed, you’ll receive a notice confirming whether your review is granted. If accepted, a new hearing may be scheduled or the decision could be modified.

If your review is denied, you must comply with the original eviction order. In exceptional cases, you can appeal to the BC Supreme Court by seeking judicial review, but this is a complex process best undertaken with legal advice.

Other Related Issues Following Eviction Orders

If you’re appealing an eviction, you may also be facing issues with deposits, moving out, or understanding your rights and responsibilities during this period. For detailed guidance on these topics, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

To learn more about your overall rights as a tenant in this province, see Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and access the latest listings if you’re planning your next move.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the deadline to file a Request for Review Consideration?
   Usually, you must file within 2 days of receiving your eviction order.
2. Can I stay in my unit while my appeal is under review?
   If the RTB accepts your review request, the eviction order may be suspended until the review is decided.
3. Are there costs to file an appeal?
   There is a fee for submitting a Request for Review Consideration, but fee waivers may be available for eligible tenants. See the RTB website for details.
4. Can I appeal because I disagree with the decision?
   No. An appeal can only be filed if there is new evidence, a procedural error, or fraud—not simply disagreement.
5. Where can I get help appealing an eviction order?
   See resources below, including the RTB and local legal clinics.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Act fast—deadlines to appeal are very short (often two days).
• Use the RTB–12 form to request a review only if you meet qualifying grounds.
• Special help is available from the Residential Tenancy Branch and local tenant advocacy groups.

If you’re unsure, contact the RTB immediately—they can clarify your options based on your unique situation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Main information hub, forms, dispute process, call centre, and guidance for tenants
• Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia): The governing law for all rental agreements
• Local tenant advocacy clinics (such as TRAC): Free advice and assistance for tenants
• Legal aid services if you need help filing a review or preparing for your RTB hearing
• Visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia for a complete overview of your protections

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1. Residential Tenancy Act – Read the Residential Tenancy Act
2. Residential Tenancy Branch – Residential Tenancy Branch (BC)

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