The Tenants Board of Alberta, also known as the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), is a quasi-judicial tribunal that provides a fast and cost-effective way to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants in Alberta, Canada. Established under the Residential Tenancies Act, the RTDRS aims to provide an independent and impartial forum for resolving disputes related to residential tenancies.
History and Mandate
The RTDRS was created in 2006, with the goal of providing a more efficient and accessible alternative to the court system for resolving residential tenancy disputes. The tribunal’s mandate is to hear and decide on disputes between landlords and tenants, and to interpret and apply the Residential Tenancies Act and its regulations. The RTDRS is composed of appointed members who are knowledgeable about residential tenancies and have experience in dispute resolution.
Types of Disputes
The RTDRS has the authority to hear and decide on a wide range of disputes, including:
- Security deposit disputes: disputes over the return of security deposits or the amount of damages claimed by the landlord
- Rent disputes: disputes over the amount of rent owed or the legality of rent increases
- Repairs and maintenance disputes: disputes over the landlord’s obligations to maintain and repair the rental property
- Eviction disputes: disputes over the landlord’s right to evict the tenant or the tenant’s right to remain in the rental property
| Dispute Type | Number of Applications (2020) |
|---|---|
| Security deposit disputes | 1,234 |
| Rent disputes | 823 |
| Repairs and maintenance disputes | 512 |
| Eviction disputes | 351 |
Application Process
To apply to the RTDRS, landlords and tenants must submit an application form and pay the required fee. The application must include all relevant information and evidence to support the claim. The RTDRS will then review the application and schedule a hearing if necessary. The hearing is an opportunity for both parties to present their case and provide evidence to support their claims.
Pre-Hearing Process
Before the hearing, the RTDRS may attempt to mediate the dispute or provide direction to the parties on the issues to be addressed at the hearing. The pre-hearing process is an opportunity for the parties to settle the dispute or to narrow the issues to be heard at the hearing.
The RTDRS also provides guidance and resources to help parties prepare for the hearing, including information packages and workshops. It is essential for parties to be prepared and to have all relevant evidence and witnesses ready to present at the hearing.
What is the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)?
+The RTDRS is a quasi-judicial tribunal that provides a fast and cost-effective way to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants in Alberta, Canada.
What types of disputes can the RTDRS hear and decide on?
+The RTDRS can hear and decide on a wide range of disputes, including security deposit disputes, rent disputes, repairs and maintenance disputes, and eviction disputes.
How do I apply to the RTDRS?
+To apply to the RTDRS, landlords and tenants must submit an application form and pay the required fee. The application must include all relevant information and evidence to support the claim.
Decisions and Appeals
The RTDRS will make a binding decision on the dispute after considering all the evidence and arguments presented at the hearing. The decision will be based on the law and the evidence presented. If either party is unhappy with the decision, they may appeal to the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta.
Enforcing Decisions
The RTDRS’s decisions are enforceable through the courts. If a party fails to comply with the decision, the other party may apply to the court for an order to enforce the decision. The court may impose penalties or take other action to ensure compliance with the decision.
In conclusion, the Tenants Board of Alberta, also known as the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), plays a vital role in resolving disputes between landlords and tenants in Alberta, Canada. By providing a fast and cost-effective way to resolve disputes, the RTDRS helps to protect the rights of both landlords and tenants and to promote fairness in the residential tenancy market.
