If you’re a tenant in British Columbia facing rental disputes—such as issues with repairs, evictions, or rent increases—understanding how orders from the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) work can help you protect your rights and ensure compliance by both parties. This guide will walk you through what these orders mean, your obligations, and the steps to take if things aren’t resolved.

What Is an Order from the Residential Tenancy Branch in BC?

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is British Columbia’s official body for resolving disputes between landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancy Act.^[1] When a tenant or landlord files a dispute and attends a hearing, the RTB may issue a legally binding decision, called an Order. These include orders of possession (for evictions), orders to repair, money orders for unpaid rent or compensations, and more.

You can learn more about the RTB and file for dispute resolution here.^[2]

Types of RTB Orders Tenants May Encounter

RTB Orders can cover a variety of situations. Some examples include:

• Order of Possession: Directs the tenant to move out by a specified date, or sometimes allows the tenant to remain if the landlord’s notice was not valid.
• Monetary Order: For payment of money owed, such as damages, unpaid rent, or return of deposits.
• Orders to Carry Out Repairs: Requires the landlord to complete repairs or maintenance within a set timeframe.
• Other Compliance Orders: Such as requiring access for repairs or enforcing other rental agreement terms.

Orders are based on the facts presented in your hearing and are enforceable by law.

What Should Tenants Do When They Receive an RTB Order?

As a tenant, it’s important to understand what the order says and act quickly. For example, if you receive an order of possession requiring you to move out, note the timeframe for compliance. If you win a dispute and the landlord is ordered to return your deposit, you’ll want to follow up on payment.

If you disagree with the order, you may have recourse. For some cases, you can file a request for review within 2 days (for an order of possession) or 5 days (for monetary orders). The process is strict and tied to specific grounds set by the RTB.

Official RTB Forms That Tenants Might Use

• Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12)
  When to use: If you and your landlord cannot resolve an issue, file this form to have your case heard by the RTB.
  Access the Application for Dispute Resolution.
• Request for Review Consideration (RTB-38)
  When to use: If you believe there was a significant error in the RTB decision or you were unable to attend the hearing for valid reasons, file this form promptly after the original order is given.
  Get the Request for Review Consideration Form.
• Notice of Direct Request for Orders of Possession (RTB-23)
  When to use: Commonly used by landlords for expedited possession, but tenants may be impacted and should respond quickly if received.
  See all RTB forms.

Follow the instructions carefully; timing is critical for all forms.

How Are RTB Orders Enforced?

If a landlord or tenant does not comply with an RTB order, several actions are possible:

• If your landlord does not pay you after a monetary order, you can file the order for enforcement in Small Claims Court.
• If a tenant does not comply with an order of possession, the landlord may obtain a Writ of Possession through the court, which is then enforced by a bailiff.
• If repairs are not carried out as ordered, keep records and consider requesting a follow-up hearing or enforcement.

For an overview of rights and responsibilities at the end of a tenancy, review the page on How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

A Tenant’s Rights and Responsibilities When Orders Are Issued

Orders are legally binding. If you disagree with an order or believe there was a mistake, act quickly and follow the official process. If an order is in your favour and the landlord does not comply, take documented steps to enforce it. To better understand your responsibilities and entitlements, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For those still searching for a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with advanced map features and up-to-date listings.

Stay informed by regularly checking Tenant Rights in British Columbia for current rules and changes.

FAQs about RTB Orders and Tenant Compliance in BC

1. What is an RTB order? An RTB order is a legally binding decision made by an arbitrator at the Residential Tenancy Branch. It resolves disputes such as unpaid rent, repairs, deposits, or eviction, and specifies what each party must do.
2. How do I respond if I disagree with an RTB order? You may file a "Request for Review Consideration" within very strict time limits if you believe there was a significant error or you couldn’t attend your hearing. Learn more and get the form from the RTB website.
3. What happens if my landlord does not comply with an RTB order? You may need to enroll the RTB order with Small Claims Court for monetary orders or contact the court for further enforcement steps. Keep thorough records.
4. Can I stay in my unit if I get an order of possession against me? Not after the specified move-out date. If you remain, the landlord can obtain a court-enforced eviction, which increases costs and legal consequences for you.
5. How quickly must I act? Timelines are strict—typically 2 days for orders of possession and 5 days for monetary decisions. Always check your order for the exact deadline.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• All RTB Orders in BC are legally binding—take them seriously.
• Understand what your order says and act within the specific deadlines.
• If orders are not followed, enforcement is available through court processes.

Know your rights, keep copies of all documents, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re unsure how to proceed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Main contact for dispute resolution, order enforcement, and renting resources (1-800-665-8779).
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Advocacy and education for BC tenants.
• Tenant Rights in British Columbia: Up-to-date facts on tenant and landlord rights in BC.
• BC Small Claims Court: For enforcement of monetary orders. Check the official court information page.

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1. Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia)
2. Residential Tenancy Branch - BC Government Official Page

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