Case Conference Settlements at the LTB in New Brunswick

Experiencing a rental dispute in New Brunswick can feel overwhelming, but you have accessible options before heading to a formal hearing. Case conferences at the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT) allow tenants and landlords to resolve issues early through a voluntary settlement process. Understanding how case conferences and settlements work gives you more control over your rights, helps prevent escalation, and can lead to faster, less stressful outcomes.

What is a Case Conference at the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal?

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT) is the official government body that manages rental disputes under New Brunswick’s residential tenancy law. In some cases, before a full hearing, the RTT may offer tenants and landlords a chance to participate in a case conference.

During a case conference, a tribunal officer helps both sides clarify key issues and encourages a mutual settlement—meaning you and your landlord agree on a solution before a decision is issued. This process is guided by New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act.^[1]

Why Choose a Case Conference?

• It is often faster than a formal hearing.
• You have an active role in shaping the outcome.
• Settlements are less formal and can address the real-life needs of both parties.
• Settlements can cover issues like unpaid rent, security deposit returns, repairs, or move-out timelines.

Many tenants use this opportunity to seek compromises, payment plans, or get commitments for repairs—all without the stress of a court-style hearing.

How Does the Settlement Process Work?

When you or your landlord files an Application for Dispute Resolution, the RTT may schedule a case conference if it appears a voluntary settlement is possible. Here’s what to expect:

• The conference is usually held by phone or video.
• An independent case officer helps guide discussion and clarifies your rights and responsibilities.
• If you reach an agreement, the officer will record the settlement in writing, and both sides may be asked to sign it.
• The settlement has the same effect as a tribunal order—it is legally binding.
• If an agreement can't be reached, the case moves to a formal hearing for a decision.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 6): This starts the process if you wish to resolve issues such as unpaid rent, maintenance, eviction notices, or return of deposits. Download from the NB RTT forms page. For example, if your landlord won’t fix a major repair or refuses to return your deposit, submitting this form is the first step.^[2]
• Settlement Agreement Form: Provided during the case conference by the tribunal officer, it summarizes the terms both parties agree to. You’ll review, sign, and receive a copy. There is no separate downloadable form—officers use tribunal templates at the time of settlement.

Your case conference will often result in a written agreement, and both parties should make sure they understand every term before signing.

What to Expect: Tips and Best Practices

• Bring supporting documents (emails, payment records, repair requests).
• Write down your key concerns and goals (e.g., repairs completed, payment plan, deposit return).
• Communicate clearly and listen actively to the other side’s perspective.
• Be open to compromise but do not agree to anything you’re uncomfortable with.
• If needed, request a short break to consider your position.

Settlements are only possible if both parties voluntarily agree—if you’re uncertain about any part of the deal, ask for clarification from the tribunal officer.

Your Rights and Responsibilities During Settlement

This process is grounded in your legal rights. To learn more about your basic responsibilities and protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. For typical disputes—like deposits, rent, repairs, or move-out issues—reviewing Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them can help you prepare.

Remember: case conferences do not replace your right to a full hearing if no settlement is reached.

Action Steps: How to Participate in a Case Conference

• File or respond to a dispute application using official RTT forms.
• Watch for notices from the RTT about a scheduled case conference.
• Gather evidence and write down what you hope to achieve from the settlement.
• Attend the scheduled conference via phone or video, follow the officer’s guidance, and share your side.
• If an agreement is reached, carefully read and sign the written terms.
• If no agreement, prepare for the formal hearing where a tribunal member will decide the outcome.

You don’t need a lawyer, but advocacy or support is encouraged if available. The process is designed to be accessible for tenants and landlords alike.

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FAQ: New Brunswick Case Conferences and Settlements

1. What happens if no agreement is reached at a case conference?
   The dispute moves to a formal hearing at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, where an officer will decide the matter.
2. Is a case conference settlement legally binding?
   Yes, once both parties sign the agreement, it has the same effect as a tribunal decision and can be enforced by law.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t follow the settlement terms?
   You can notify the Tribunal and file for enforcement if a party breaches the settlement.
4. Do I have to pay to participate in a case conference?
   No, there is no cost to attend a case conference as it is part of the dispute resolution process.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Case conferences encourage early, mutual settlements and can save time and stress.
• All agreements are voluntary and legally enforceable once signed.
• You retain your right to a formal hearing if settlement is not possible.

Preparation and understanding your rights are your best tools in these situations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Official website
• Residential Tenancies Act (legislation)
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB)
• For a broad overview of your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick), available at Review the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act.
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Tribunal Forms, available at Official forms page.

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