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Complete and file the participatory hearing application

Last updated on September 6, 2024

Learn how to complete and file the participatory hearing application. You can apply for a participatory hearing online or through a paper application.

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Pay the participatory hearing fee when you apply

The participatory hearing application fee is $100. Be prepared to pay when you apply.

In some circumstances, you might be eligible for a fee waiver.

Apply online

Applying online is the fastest way to apply for dispute resolution. If you're unable to apply online, you can submit a paper application.

You need a BCeID

You need a basic BCeID account to access the Online Application for Dispute Resolution. Getting a basic BCeID account is a simple process and provides secure access to online government services.

You only need to provide your first and last name and an email address. You'll be able to choose a user ID and a password. 

Register for a basic BCeID 

You may already have a BCeID if you access services like:

To access the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) Dispute Management System

Apply online 

All communication comes by email

If you apply online, all communication about your application will come to your email address. Make sure you monitor your email after you apply.

If you aren't a regular email user, it's better to use the paper application.

Apply by paper

File paper forms in person at a Service BC or RTB office

You can file paper forms in person at a Service BC office outside the Lower Mainland. In the Lower Mainland, you can file in person at the Burnaby RTB office.

Tenants' paper application

You can submit a paper application for dispute resolution through Service BC offices outside the Lower Mainland, or at the Burnaby RTB office.

For efficiency, make sure you fill out the form completely and accurately.

There are 2 main types of paper applications for tenants. 

Choose the correct paper application

Application for dispute resolution: if you are living in the rental unit

Use this form if you are still living in the unit where the dispute is occurring.

The Tenant Application for Dispute Resolution - Current Tenancy (PDF, 1250MB) - Form RTB-12T-CT

Is used for:

  • Disputing an eviction notice
  • Disputing an illegal rent increase
  • Requesting an order for the landlord to comply with the Residential Tenancy Act, Residential Tenancy Regulation or Residential Tenancy Agreement (PDF, 933KB) - Form RTB-1
  • Asking for compensation for monetary loss
  • Requesting that the landlord reimburse the tenant for emergency repairs they paid for
  • Requesting that the landlord make repairs
  • Requesting a rent reduction because repairs are needed or the landlord isn't providing a service or facility
  • Stopping the landlord from entering the rental suite
  • Requesting that the landlord provide a service or facility that was in the tenancy agreement
  • Getting access to the rental unit
  • Getting personal property returned
  • Requesting to change the locks
  • Requesting permission to sublet the unit

Application for dispute resolution: if you are not living in the rental unit

Use this form for issues relating to a rental unit you no longer live in. 

The Tenant Application for Dispute Resolution - Past Tenancy (PDF, 1077MB) - Form RTB-12T-PT

Is used for:

  • Requesting the security or pet deposit back
  • Compensation for monetary loss
  • Requesting that the landlord reimburse the tenant for emergency repairs they paid for
  • Requesting that the landlord return the tenant's personal property

Landlords' paper application

Choose the correct paper application

For efficiency, make sure you fill out the form completely and accurately.

Application for dispute resolution: if the tenant is living in the rental unit

The Landlord Application for Dispute Resolution - Current Tenancy (PDF, 978KB) - Form RTB-12L-CT

Is used for:

  • Orders of possession
  • Recovering unpaid rent
  • Compensation for damages
  • Compensation for other monetary losses

Application for dispute resolution: if the tenant is not living in the rental unit

The Landlord Application for Dispute Resolution - Past Tenancy (PDF, 976KB) - Form RTB-12L-PT

Is used for:

  • Recovering unpaid rent and utilities
  • Requesting compensation for damages
  • Requesting compensation for monetary loss

Other forms you may need

Learn about other forms you may need to complete and file with your application.

Monetary order worksheet

The Monetary Order Worksheet (PDF, 148KB)- Form RTB-37, must be filed for applications that involve disputes over money and if one party is out-of-pocket because of the other party.

This form is not for tenants who are applying to have a damage or pet deposit returned.

The worksheet asks for details and supporting evidence about your claim. Provide as much information as possible and attach all related receipts.

For example, if you are claiming for damages, you need to include:

  • A list of individual items being claimed
  • Their associated dollar amounts
  • Related receipts
  • Totals for all items

If you're claiming unpaid rent, you need to detail the exact amount that is owed.

Landlords and tenants can use the same form.

Multiple tenants or landlords

When there are more applicants or respondents than there is room for on the application form, you can attach a Schedule of Parties (PDF, 557MB) - Form RTB-26.

  • Use this form if you have roommates or your unit is owned by several people

Everyone named on the schedule of parties must be served the Notice of Proceeding package.

Tenant application for dispute resolution: Other

Tenants use the form Tenants Application for Dispute Resolution: Other (PDF, 673KB) - Form RTB-12T-O to:

  • Determine if the Residential Tenancy Branch has jurisdiction over a dispute
  • Apply for an order of possession because the rental unit is uninhabitable
  • Apply for an issue or claim is not found on the Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution (current or past tenancy)

Tenants must also complete an application for dispute resolution (current or past tenancy) to use this form.

Landlord application for dispute resolution: Other

Landlords use the form Landlords Application for Dispute Resolution: Other (PDF, 579KB) - Form RTB-12L-O to:

  • Apply for an order of possession because the rental unit is uninhabitable
  • Apply for an order for the tenant to follow the manufactured home park rules
  • Apply for an issue not found on the Landlord’s Application for Dispute Resolution (current or past tenancy)

Landlords must also complete an application for dispute resolution (current or past tenancy) to use this form.

Apply for a different hearing format

Hearings can be held in person for people who have a hearing loss or a disability that prevents them from participating over the phone. 

How to apply

Apply by paper only

You can only apply for an alternate hearing format using a paper application and submit it to the RTB or Service BC office. There is no online option to apply.

Submit a Request for Alternate Hearing Format (PDF, 770KB) - Form RTB-36, with the rest of your application.

Interpreting service

People who have hearing loss may also request an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter before the hearing. 

The RTB will arrange the interpreting service and pay the fee. To request an interpreter:

After you've filed your application

The RTB puts together a Notice of Proceeding package that contains:

  • The hearing date, time and place
  • A copy of your application
  • Instructions on how to prepare for the hearing

The package will also include instructions for how to serve the package to the other party.

If you applied in person

The RTB or Service BC office notifies you when the Notice of Proceeding package is ready.

If you apply in person at the RTB's Burnaby office or at your local Service BC office, they will phone or email you to pick up the package.

If you applied online

If you apply online, the RTB will email you a confirmation code you can use to log in to their online portal and download the Notice of Proceeding package.

The email sometimes goes to your spam or junk mail folder, so it's important to check regularly if you've recently applied for dispute resolution.

Next: serve notice for dispute resolution

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