Online hearings have become a common way for tenants in New Brunswick to resolve disputes with landlords without travelling to a tribunal office. If you are a renter facing an eviction, a rent dispute, or a repair problem, understanding how virtual proceedings work can reduce stress and help you present your case. This guide explains what the Residential Tenancies Tribunal expects during online hearings, which official forms to use, how to prepare evidence, and practical tips for attending from home. It uses plain language for tenants and provides links to the tribunal, relevant legislation, and forms so you can act confidently and meet deadlines.
How online hearings work in New Brunswick
The official body that handles landlord and tenant disputes is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1]. The tribunal now offers remote hearings by video or telephone for many case types, which means you can attend from home and avoid travel. The process follows the provincial Residential Tenancies Act[2] and tribunal rules about filing, evidence, and timelines. Knowing the rules helps you stay organized and prepared.
Common reasons tenants use online hearings
- Disputes about unpaid rent or rent owed by either party
- Eviction or termination notices where a landlord seeks possession
- Habitability or repair disputes where the tenant seeks orders for repairs
- Disagreements about damage deposits, charges, or lease terms
Preparing for an online hearing
Start early: confirm the hearing date and whether it will be by video or telephone, and check any deadlines for submitting evidence or forms to the tribunal. If you received a hearing notice, follow the instructions and test your internet, camera, and microphone before the scheduled time.
What to bring or submit
- Proof of payments such as rent receipts, bank transfers, or cancelled cheques
- Photographs, videos, or inspection reports showing the condition of the unit
- Copies of written notices, the rental agreement, and any email or text exchanges
- Contact details for witnesses who can support your account
- A clear timeline of events with dates and short notes
Official forms and when to use them
Common forms include an application to the tribunal to start a claim (often titled "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal") and response or supporting evidence forms the tribunal provides. For example, a tenant seeking an order for repairs would file an application and attach photos and receipts showing attempts to have the landlord fix the issue. You can find official tribunal forms and filing instructions on the government forms page for the tribunal[3].
At the hearing: practical tips
- Join the hearing a few minutes early to confirm audio and video work
- Speak clearly, keep statements brief, and address the tribunal politely
- When presenting evidence, refer to documents by page or exhibit number
- If technical problems arise, notify the tribunal immediately using the contact details on the hearing notice
If you need help understanding your rights or completing forms, see the overview of tenant rights for New Brunswick and common tenant issues. The government facts page on New Brunswick tenant rights is a useful summary, and a practical guide on common disputes can help you decide what evidence to collect. See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more context. You can also look for a new rental if you are moving after a hearing decision by using external listing sites.
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FAQ
- Can I request an online hearing?
- Yes. Many hearings can be scheduled online; check the hearing notice or call the tribunal office to request remote participation.
- What if I cannot use video?
- You can usually participate by telephone; advise the tribunal in advance so they can provide dial-in details or alternative arrangements.
- How do I submit evidence before the hearing?
- Follow the tribunal's directions: upload documents if an online portal is provided, or send copies by the method listed on the hearing notice before the deadline.
- Do I need a lawyer?
- No, tenants can represent themselves. You may consult a lawyer or a community legal clinic for advice, especially for complex matters.
How-To
- Gather and label all documents and photos you will use as evidence
- Complete and file the appropriate tribunal application form and attach supporting documents
- Join the scheduled online hearing on time and present your case clearly and calmly
- After the hearing, follow any orders and file required paperwork to implement the tribunal decision
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - Consolidated Acts of New Brunswick
- Official tribunal forms and filing instructions - Service New Brunswick
