If you’re a tenant in British Columbia and have been told you owe arrears (back rent) or you’ve received a demand for payment from your landlord, it’s important to know your rights and options. The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) provides a clear process for tenants who wish to dispute back rent claims and resolve these issues fairly. This guide explains when and how you can dispute arrears, what paperwork is involved, and where to get support along the way.

Understanding Arrears and Back Rent

Rent arrears (also called “back rent”) are amounts of rent your landlord claims you haven’t paid. Landlords can issue a notice to end tenancy or seek payment for these amounts. However, tenants have the right to dispute these claims if they think the amount is wrong, if they already paid, or if there is a valid legal reason for non-payment.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

As a BC tenant, you are required to pay your rent in full and on time. If you miss a payment, your landlord may issue a 10-Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent. You have the right to dispute this notice if you disagree.

For more background on your payment responsibilities, check out the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

If You Receive a Notice for Arrears or Back Rent

If your landlord issues a formal notice claiming arrears, you may receive:

• 10-Day Notice to End Tenancy for Unpaid Rent or Utilities (RTB-30): This is the most common notice form if your rent is overdue. It’s official and can lead to eviction if not addressed quickly.
• A written demand (outside of a notice) for payment of outstanding rent, which you may also dispute.

If you disagree with any notice about arrears, or believe you have paid your rent in full, you have the right to request a dispute resolution with the RTB.

How to Dispute Arrears or a Notice to End Tenancy

British Columbia tenants can file an application for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), the official tribunal that handles rental disputes in BC. Dispute resolution is a formal process, similar to a tribunal hearing, where both you and your landlord can present your sides.

Key Forms for BC Tenants

• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12):
  This is the main form to challenge a 10-Day Notice to End Tenancy or to dispute a landlord’s claim for arrears. You must file within five days if served a 10-day notice. Download and submit it online or in person. Access the form and submission portal here.
  Example: If you receive a 10-Day Notice for $1,200 of arrears on June 1, but you already paid or there’s a mistake, use this form to challenge the eviction and claim.
• Evidence Checklist (RTB Evidence Submission):
  Submit proof such as receipts, bank statements, communications with the landlord, or witness statements. Bring all evidence with your RTB-12 application.

Summary of the Dispute Resolution Process

Once your Application for Dispute Resolution is submitted:

• The RTB sets a hearing date. Both you and your landlord will be given details on when and how to present evidence.
• Submitting evidence on time is critical — missed deadlines can weaken your case.
• A dispute resolution officer hears both sides and makes an enforceable decision.

For additional context about tenant rights after you have entered a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Important Deadlines for BC Tenants

• If disputing a 10-day notice for unpaid rent, you must apply for dispute resolution within 5 days of receiving the notice.
• If you simply want to pay what’s owed and keep your tenancy, pay in full within 5 days of receiving the notice. Keep receipts and notify your landlord in writing.

Timely and complete response is crucial to avoid eviction or a money order against you.

Arrears and Security Deposits

Landlords may try to use your security deposit towards arrears if you move out. Know your rights and the formal process — including when damages and cleaning can be deducted. For more, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Where to Find Support and More Information

Learn more about your rights concerning rent arrears and eviction by reviewing the Tenant Rights in British Columbia. If you’re looking for a new home after a dispute, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and avoid future rental problems with up-to-date listings and helpful search tools.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disputing Arrears in BC

1. What if I agree I owe rent but don’t have the money by the deadline?
   If you can’t pay within five days, your tenancy may legally end and you could be required to move out. However, explain your situation to your landlord and see if a repayment plan is possible. If you stay past the notice deadline, your landlord may apply for an order of possession to evict you through the RTB.
2. Can my landlord evict me for a small amount of rent owing?
   Yes, even small arrears can result in a legal notice to end your tenancy. Always respond in writing and seek dispute resolution if you disagree with the claim.
3. What kind of evidence can help my dispute?
   Useful evidence includes rent receipts, bank statements, email exchanges, text screenshots, or witness testimony showing payment or explaining any delay.
4. Does the Residential Tenancy Branch cost money to apply?
   There is a fee for the Application for Dispute Resolution, but it may be waived for low-income tenants (apply for fee waiver).
5. How long does the dispute process take?
   Hearings can take several weeks to a few months depending on RTB caseload. Emergency situations (like imminent eviction) may be prioritized.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

• Act fast if you receive a notice for arrears or unpaid rent—short deadlines apply.
• Carefully collect and submit evidence with your application to the RTB.
• Maintain written communication with your landlord and keep payment documentation.

Above all, remember that the RTB process is designed to help both tenants and landlords resolve rent disputes fairly under BC law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – Official government tenancy agency, including forms, guides, and how-to videos.
• Application for Dispute Resolution form (RTB-12)
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) – Tenant advocacy, information lines, and support in BC.
• For updates on BC’s Residential Tenancy Act

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1. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), Government of British Columbia. RTB Homepage
2. Residential Tenancy Act, S.B.C. 2002, c. 78. Full legislation text
3. 10 Day Notice to End Tenancy (RTB-30)
4. RTB-12 Application for Dispute Resolution

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