What should I do if my landlord gives me an eviction notice I disagree with?

Apply for Dispute Resolution with the RTB using Form RTB-12 as soon as possible—often within five or ten days, depending on the type of notice.

Is there a fee to file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch?

Yes. As of 2024, the application fee is $100. Tenants experiencing financial hardship may request a fee reduction or waiver using the appropriate RTB form.

How soon will my dispute be heard?

The RTB aims to schedule phone hearings within a few weeks. Emergency issues, such as serious repairs or lockouts, may be prioritized and heard sooner.

What evidence should I bring to a hearing?

Gather all relevant documents: your tenancy agreement, copies of notices, emails, photos of repairs needed, and the Condition Inspection Report.

Where can I get help filling out forms or preparing for a hearing?

Community legal clinics, advocacy groups, and the RTB information line can guide you. See the resources section for links and contacts.

Legal Support for Tenant Disputes: British Columbia Guide

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities British Columbia published July 01, 2025

Are you a tenant in British Columbia facing challenges like rent increases, repairs, or eviction threats? Understanding your rights—and where to get help—is essential. This guide explains how you can get legal support for disputes about tenant rights and responsibilities in BC, highlighting official steps, forms, and resources every renter should know.

Understanding Your Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

The Residential Tenancy Act governs rental housing in British Columbia. It sets out your rights and duties as a tenant—including paying rent on time, caring for your home, and knowing what to do if you face issues like repairs or disagreements with your landlord.

Many typical concerns, such as maintenance, privacy, rent increases, and deposit returns, are covered by BC law. If you're not sure about specific obligations, the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained article provides a great overview.

Where to Get Legal Support in British Columbia

If discussions with your landlord aren't resolving things, you have legal options. In BC, the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is the official body that handles rental housing disputes between tenants and landlords. They provide key resources, forms, and the dispute resolution process for tenants across the province.

BC Residential Tenancy Branch: Find forms, advice lines, and dispute resolution info.
Community legal clinics can help you complete forms or represent you in hearings—see the Help section below.

Common Disputes: When Legal Help Can Make a Difference

British Columbia tenants most often seek support for:

Eviction notices they believe are unfair or improper
Unreasonable rent increases or unclear notices
Lack of repairs or health/safety issues in the rental
Problems with getting the damage deposit back

For detail on these and other issues, see the Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them guide.

Official Forms Every Tenant Should Know

Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RTB-12): If your landlord won't address problems, or you disagree with a notice (such as for eviction or rent increase), this form is your main tool. Examples include challenging a Notice to End Tenancy, or seeking an order for urgent repairs. Download Form RTB-12 and instructions here. Submit it to the RTB online, by mail, or in person.
Notice to End Tenancy (Form RTB-33, RTB-32, etc.): Landlords must use official forms to end a tenancy. If you receive a notice you believe is unfair, you can challenge it within strict time limits—often 10 days for some eviction types.
Condition Inspection Report (Form RTB-27): Essential for disputes about repairs or deposit returns. Always keep a completed and signed copy when you move in and out. Download the Condition Inspection Report.

Always check deadlines closely. For example, if you want to dispute an eviction for non-payment of rent, you must file the Application for Dispute Resolution within five days of getting the notice.

Dispute Resolution Process Explained

Dispute resolution is like a small claims court for tenants and landlords. After submitting your form, both sides may attend a telephone hearing with an RTB arbitrator. Bring all documents, letters, and inspection reports. A decision will be given after the hearing, and both parties must follow it.

Tip: If facing a hearing, organize your evidence early—photos, emails, and inspection reports are helpful.

Other Useful Resources

Don't forget: If you’re struggling with a rent increase, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.
For new or renewing tenants, always clarify duties by visiting What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
For wide-ranging housing searches in BC or beyond, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

For a province-wide overview, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my landlord gives me an eviction notice I disagree with?
Apply for Dispute Resolution with the RTB using Form RTB-12 as soon as possible—often within five or ten days, depending on the type of notice.
Is there a fee to file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch?
Yes. As of 2024, the application fee is $100. Tenants experiencing financial hardship may request a fee reduction or waiver using the appropriate RTB form.
How soon will my dispute be heard?
The RTB aims to schedule phone hearings within a few weeks. Emergency issues, such as serious repairs or lockouts, may be prioritized and heard sooner.
What evidence should I bring to a hearing?
Gather all relevant documents: your tenancy agreement, copies of notices, emails, photos of repairs needed, and the Condition Inspection Report.
Where can I get help filling out forms or preparing for a hearing?
Community legal clinics, advocacy groups, and the RTB information line can guide you. See the "Need Help?" section below for links and contacts.

How to Challenge an Eviction or Rental Dispute in British Columbia

Review the notice and your rights
Carefully read your eviction notice or dispute, comparing it with your rental agreement and BC tenancy law. Ensure the notice is on the correct official form.
Contact your landlord in writing
Raise your concerns via email or letter. Sometimes disputes can be resolved informally at this step.
Gather supporting documents
Collect your rental agreement, inspection reports, communications, and photos as evidence.
Submit an Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)
Complete the RTB-12 form and submit to the RTB, either online or by mail, within the required timeframe.
Attend your hearing
Prepare to explain your situation and present evidence. The arbitrator will make a legally binding decision.

This process ensures tenants have a fair opportunity to resolve disputes.

Key Takeaways for BC Tenants

The Residential Tenancy Branch is your primary resource for resolving legal disputes as a tenant in BC.
Respond promptly to eviction or dispute notices—deadlines can be very short.
Use tenant-focused forms and official resources, and keep careful records of all communications.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Official BC Tenancy Information and Forms
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Free advice, education, and legal support
Legal Aid BC: Find local legal clinics for tenants
Dial-A-Law (People’s Law School): Housing Law Info