What emergency orders and remedies are available
When a landlord breaches basic obligations in British Columbia tenants may seek urgent orders or other remedies to restore safety, get repairs, or stop wrongful evictions. Common remedies include urgent repair orders, compensation or rent refunds, orders to stop an eviction, and orders that require the landlord to comply with habitability standards.
Common remedies
- Urgent repair orders to fix heating, plumbing, or other habitability issues.
- Compensation or rent refund when unsafe conditions reduce your ability to use the rental.
- Orders to stop an illegal eviction or wrongful notice to vacate.
How to gather evidence and start the process
Good documentation makes emergency requests stronger. Keep dated records, communicate in writing where possible, and use official channels if the landlord does not act.
- Take dated photos and videos of the problem, including timestamps or visible clocks where possible.
- Keep rent receipts, payment records and any records of expenses you incurred because of the issue.
- Send a written repair request that describes the issue, the date, and the action you want; keep a copy and proof of delivery.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancy Branch to request an urgent order if the landlord fails to act.
How to apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch
Start by reviewing the Residential Tenancy Branch website for steps and current forms[1]. After you gather evidence, complete the official application for dispute resolution or the specific form for urgent repairs and submit it as instructed by the Branch[2]. The Branch applies the Residential Tenancy Act when considering remedies and orders, so read the Act or summaries of the law to understand timelines and grounds for relief[3]. For examples and tenant-facing guidance see the Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities page and review safety tips on Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. If you need temporary housing while a dispute is resolved, consider short-term listings such as Find Vancouver apartments for rent.
When to get legal or community help
If an urgent order is needed to prevent imminent harm (for example, no heat in winter or unsafe wiring) contact the Branch and local tenant clinics or legal aid where available; community legal centres can help you prepare an application and represent you at dispute resolution hearings.
FAQ
- How quickly can I get an emergency order in BC?
- The Residential Tenancy Branch can schedule expedited dispute resolution in urgent cases; timing depends on the issue, evidence provided, and current Branch capacity.
- Can I withhold rent until repairs are done?
- Withholding rent is risky without an order; instead document the problem, give a written repair request, and use the Branch to ask for a rent abatement or repair order.
- Will a hearing decide both repairs and compensation?
- Yes, the Branch may order repairs, compensation, rent refunds, or other remedies if evidence supports the tenant's claim.
How-To
- Gather dated photos, videos, and written records showing the problem and any communications with your landlord.
- Contact the landlord in writing to request repairs and keep proof of delivery or a sent email copy.
- Complete and submit the Residential Tenancy Branch application for dispute resolution with supporting documents.
- Attend the dispute resolution hearing or call as scheduled and present your evidence clearly and calmly.
- If the Branch issues an order, follow the next steps to enforce it or seek further remedies if the landlord does not comply.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Branch main site
- Apply for dispute resolution (forms and instructions)
- Residential Tenancy Act (legislation)
