What Tenants Can Do About LTB Delays in BC

Dispute Resolution & LTB British Columbia published: June 20, 2025 Flag of British Columbia

If you're a tenant in British Columbia and have filed a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB)—the government body handling rental disagreements—you may be worried about long wait times. Delays at the RTB can impact crucial issues like unpaid repairs, eviction threats, or rent disputes. This article explains the causes of RTB hearing delays and what steps you can take as a tenant to protect your rights under BC's Residential Tenancy Act (Residential Tenancy Act), with up-to-date government resources.

Understanding RTB Delays and Why They Happen

The Residential Tenancy Branch handles applications for dispute resolution, including issues like eviction notices, security deposit returns, rent increases, and urgent repairs. A high volume of applications, especially after the pandemic, means many tenants face significant waits—often weeks or even months—for a hearing.

  • Eviction hearings and health/safety matters are usually prioritized.
  • Other disputes (like deposit return or routine repairs) may wait longer.

Understanding the type of issue you're facing will help you know what action to take and what priority your case may receive.

What Can Tenants Do During RTB Delays?

Waiting for an RTB hearing can be stressful, particularly if your issue threatens your housing stability or well-being. Tenants have several options to protect themselves while facing tribunal delays:

  • Request an expedited or urgent hearing if your safety, basic services, or risk of homelessness is involved.
  • Continue to gather and document evidence (photos, communications, receipts) for your application.
  • Communicate clearly—and in writing—with your landlord so there is a record of what steps you're taking.
  • Access community or legal advocacy resources for support and advice during long waits.
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Requesting an Expedited Hearing: How and When?

If your situation is urgent—such as a pending unlawful eviction, a shut-off of essential services (water, heat), or unsafe living conditions—BC tenants can apply for a faster hearing using the RTB's Expedited Dispute Resolution process.

If utilities are disconnected or an eviction is scheduled within days, request an expedited hearing immediately and attach proof (like a disconnection notice).

Forms and Essential Official Steps for BC Tenants

Here's a quick overview of key forms you might need if you're dealing with RTB delays or urgent rental issues in BC:

  • Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-26): Use this to start any dispute with your landlord, such as illegal eviction, rent increase challenges, or seeking repairs. Download RTB-26 here.
  • Request for Expedited Hearing (RTB-12): Submit after you file RTB-26, only for urgent cases. Download RTB-12 here.
  • Withdrawal of Application for Dispute Resolution (RTB-16): Use this if you resolve the issue with your landlord or no longer need to proceed. Download RTB-16 here.

Filing these forms with the RTB can be done online, by fax, by mail, or in person at Service BC locations. Be sure to check deadlines: For example, you often have only a short window (e.g., 5–10 days) to dispute eviction notices.

Dealing with Ongoing Tenancy Issues During Delays

While waiting for a hearing, you may still need to live with unresolved concerns, such as inadequate repairs, utilities being disrupted, or unresolved complaints. See our resource on Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more strategies to handle these situations and stay informed about your rights.

  • Do not withhold rent unless legally permitted by RTB order.
  • Continue to pay rent on time and follow your lease terms.
  • Record all communications and keep copies of notices.

Where to Find More Information

Learn more about your rights as a BC tenant by accessing Tenant Rights in British Columbia for a full overview. For other provinces, see the respective guides. For those exploring their next housing option, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—the all-in-one map-based platform for tenants nationwide.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About RTB Delays in British Columbia

  1. How long do RTB hearings usually take?
    Depending on the nature of your case, standard hearings may take several weeks or even a few months to schedule. Urgent situations may receive priority, reducing wait times.
  2. Can I speed up my RTB hearing if my situation is urgent?
    Yes. Use the Request for Expedited Hearing (RTB-12) form and clearly state your urgent need, providing any supporting documents.
  3. Should I stop paying rent if repairs aren't made while waiting for a hearing?
    No. It's best to keep paying rent as usual unless an RTB order specifically allows you to do otherwise. Withholding rent could lead to eviction proceedings.
  4. What evidence should I collect while waiting for my hearing?
    Keep copies of all written communications, photos of the issue (if repairs or health concerns), receipts for related expenses, and any applicable notices received from your landlord.
  5. Where can I find more support or advocacy for tenants?
    See the resources below for government hotlines, legal aid, and tenant advocacy organizations in British Columbia.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

  • RTB delays are common in BC, but urgent situations can be prioritized with the right forms.
  • Gather documentation, continue paying rent, and seek local tenant advocacy resources if delays jeopardize your health or housing.
  • Know your rights under the Tenant Rights in British Columbia guide and BC’s official Residential Tenancy Act.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB), forms and resources: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies
  2. Residential Tenancy Act (R.S.B.C. 2002, c. 78): Residential Tenancy Act
  3. Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): https://tenants.bc.ca/

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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