RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: Alberta

What is an RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application?

RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application is the form you use to start a case with the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service. It is the official application for a tenant’s claim. You use it to ask an adjudicator for orders against a landlord. Those orders can include money, repairs, access, or permission to end your tenancy.

You complete this form when your landlord has not met legal or lease duties. It sets out who you are, who the landlord is, the tenancy details, what went wrong, and what you want ordered. It also attaches your evidence. Once filed and served, the RTDRS schedules a hearing. An adjudicator then decides your claim.

Tenants and former tenants typically use this form. Co‑tenants can file together. A subtenant can also apply if the dispute arises from a residential sublease. Property managers cannot file this form unless they are also tenants. Landlords use a different application.

You would file this form when you need a fast and enforceable decision. Common reasons include a landlord keeping your security deposit without cause. Or refusing to make essential repairs. Or changing the locks without a court or RTDRS order. It also covers compensation for losses you suffered due to the landlord’s breach.

Typical scenarios include a landlord failing to return a deposit after you moved out. A unit with no heat in winter despite repeated requests. Unauthorized entries that interfere with your privacy. Rent charged after you lawfully ended the tenancy. Utility shut‑offs used to force you to leave. Improper notice that puts your housing at risk. Illegal fees added to your rent ledger. Infestations not addressed after notice. Or damages to your property caused by the landlord’s actions.

You can also seek orders that let you end your lease without penalty. This applies if the landlord’s breach is serious. You can ask for rent abatement for the period you could not use parts of the unit. You can claim out‑of‑pocket costs tied to the breach. These may include hotel bills, moving costs, or cleaning costs. You can ask for an order to complete repairs by a set date. You can seek an order to return your keys or give you access if you are locked out.

The form is designed to be practical. It asks you to state your remedies and your facts. It also prompts you to attach your proof. It helps the adjudicator understand your claim quickly. A complete, clear form speeds up the process.

When Would You Use an RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application?

Use this form when talking to the landlord who has not worked. Use it when you need an enforceable order, not just a promise. It applies to most residential tenancy disputes in Alberta. It is not for commercial leases or work camps. It is not for condominium bylaw issues. It is not for roommates unless a residential tenancy exists with a landlord.

• You would use it after a move‑out when your deposit was kept without proper reasons.
• You would use it during a tenancy when repairs are not done after notice.
• You would use it when essential services are shut off. You would use it if the landlord blocks your access.
• You would use it if an illegal notice threatens your tenancy.
• You would use it to recover costs from a landlord breach.
• You would use it to correct an improper rent ledger.
• You would use it to stop unlawful entries and get an order for quiet enjoyment.

Emergency situations need fast action. Examples include a lockout or a utility shut‑off. You can ask for an urgent hearing. You can also request an interim order that restores access or services. You should file as soon as possible in those cases. The form lets you flag urgency and explain why.

Non‑urgent issues are common. These include a deposit not returned within the required time. Or excessive cleaning charges without evidence. Or failure to provide a signed statement of account. Or small repair items that drag on. Or a landlord refusing to accept your lawful notice to end a periodic tenancy. File the form when negotiations stall. It gets a hearing date on the calendar.

Seasonal issues often trigger filings. Heat outages in winter. AC failures in extreme heat. Flooding after the spring melt. Pest infestations that spread. You can claim rent abatement for affected periods. You can seek an order to fix the cause. You can also claim costs for damaged personal items if you prove the loss.

Common users are individual tenants, couples, and co‑tenants. Subtenants of a master tenant can apply if the dispute is with the master landlord. Former tenants use it for deposit and damage disputes. Community organizations sometimes help tenants complete the form. But the tenant is the applicant. The form is written for self‑represented parties. It expects clear facts and basic documents.

Legal Characteristics of the RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application

The application is the document that starts a legal proceeding. The form itself is not an order. It does not bind the landlord on its own. It asks the RTDRS to hear your case and make a binding order. You sign a declaration that your statements are true. False statements can affect your case. They can also lead to penalties under the law.

An RTDRS order is legally binding. It has the force of a court order. The order can grant money, set deadlines, and direct actions. For example, it can require the landlord to return a deposit by a date. Or to complete repairs by a date. Or to allow you to re‑enter the unit. Or to end your tenancy without penalty. Non‑compliance can be enforced through the courts.

Enforceability depends on proper process. You must file the form correctly. You must serve the landlord by the deadline. You must file proof of service. You must submit your evidence on time and in the required format. You must attend the hearing. The adjudicator must have jurisdiction over the dispute. The claim must be within the monetary limit. It must involve a residential tenancy in Alberta.

The RTDRS applies Alberta residential tenancy laws and your lease. It looks at the facts and your proof. It applies the rules on deposits, notice, repairs, access, and damages. It can hear both monetary and non‑monetary claims. It cannot decide matters outside its scope, such as human rights claims. It may direct parties to other forums if needed.

Time limits matter. Claims must be filed within the legal limitation periods. Evidence must be given to the other side before the hearing. The notice period for hearings is short. You must act promptly. Delays can harm your case. They can also affect remedies like rent abatement periods.

The process is designed to be quick and fair. Hearings are usually by phone or video. Decisions follow shortly after. You receive a written order. That order sets out findings and results. You can file the order in court if enforcement is needed. In limited cases, you may seek a review. Reviews have strict grounds and timelines.

How to Fill Out an RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application

1) Confirm RTDRS is the right forum.

• Make sure your dispute is about a residential tenancy in Alberta.
• Check that your claim is within the monetary limit.
• Confirm the remedies you want are ones the RTDRS can order.
• If in doubt, read the form’s scope note. Then proceed.

2) Gather your documents first.

• Collect your lease or tenancy agreement.
• Gather rent receipts or bank statements showing payments.
• Prepare your move‑in and move‑out inspection reports.
• Pull together photos and videos of issues.
• Save texts, emails, and messages with the landlord.
• Compile repair requests and response timelines.
• Gather invoices, quotes, and receipts for your losses.
• Get utility bills if services were cut or overbilled.
• Create a rent ledger with dates, amounts, and balances.
• Have IDs and contact details ready.

3) Complete the Applicant section.

• Enter your full legal name. Use your name as it appears on ID.
• Include all co‑tenants who are part of the claim.
• Provide a mailing address for service of documents.
• Add your phone number and email. Ensure they are current.
• If you need accommodation, note it. Explain what you need.

4) Identify the Respondent accurately.

• Name the landlord as shown on the lease.
• If the landlord is a company, use the full legal name.
• If a property manager acts for the landlord, list them as the agent.
• Include the landlord’s service address. Add email if known.
• If unknown, use the address on the lease or posted notices.

5) Enter the Tenancy details.

• Provide the full rental address and unit number.
• State the type of tenancy: fixed term or periodic.
• List start and end dates, or “ongoing” if current.
• Enter monthly rent and payment due date.
• Enter the security deposit amount paid.
• Note if the landlord charged pet or other deposits.

6) Select your Remedies precisely.

• Use the checkboxes or fields in the form.
• Ask for the return of your security deposit if applicable.
• Request compensation with clear dollar amounts.
• If seeking repairs, ask for a specific order to complete them.
• If you want rent abatement, state the period and calculation.
• If locked out, ask for immediate access and key return.
• If seeking to end the tenancy, request an order allowing it.
• Include interest where allowed. Show how you calculated it.
• If you need costs, list filing and service fees.

7) State your Facts and reasons clearly.

• Write a short, dated timeline. Keep it chronological.
• Focus on key events. Tie them to your remedies.
• Example: “Jan 10: Reported no heat. Jan 12: No response.”
• Explain how the landlord breached the law or lease.
• Describe the impact. Loss of use, health risk, or money loss.
• Connect each fact to a piece of evidence.
• Avoid opinions. Stick to facts you can prove.

8) List and attach your Evidence.

• Label each attachment as a numbered exhibit.
• Use clear titles. Example: “Exhibit 1 – Lease Agreement.”
• Include photos with dates and brief captions.
• Provide receipts and invoices with totals highlighted.
• Attach messages that show notice and responses.
• Include inspection reports and work orders.
• Add a rent ledger showing payments and balances.
• Black out unrelated personal data if needed.
• Keep the file organized and paginated.

9) Address urgency if relevant.

• Use the form’s urgent or interim order section.
• Explain why waiting would cause serious harm.
• Example: “No heat during freezing weather. Health risk.”
• Ask for specific interim relief. Access, utilities, or stay of notice.
• Be ready to serve on short notice.

10) Identify Witnesses.

• List any witnesses who will speak to key facts.
• Include names, roles, and contact details.
• Example: neighbor who saw the lock change.
• Example: contractor who inspected the furnace.
• Make sure they can attend the hearing.

11) Choose Hearing preferences.

• Indicate phone or video hearing if the form asks.
• Mention availability constraints, if any.
• Request interpretation or accessibility supports if needed.

12) Complete the Remedy calculations.

• Show how you calculated each dollar amount.
• For rent abatement, tie it to reduced use or habitability.
• For property loss, attach proof of market value.
• For deposit interest, show your method and time period.
• For service fees, include receipts.

13) Review jurisdiction and monetary limit.

• Confirm the total claimed is within allowed limits.
• If it is above the limit, reduce or split claims with care.
• Only one tenancy dispute should be in one application.

14) Sign the Applicant declaration.

• Read the statement of truth carefully.
• Sign and date the form. Type your name if filing online.
• By signing, you confirm the facts are true to your knowledge.

15) File the application.

• Submit the form through the accepted filing method.
• Pay the filing fee. Keep your receipt.
• Note your file number and hearing date once assigned.
• Calendar all deadlines shown in the notice.

16) Serve the Respondent properly.

• Serve the landlord with the application and all evidence.
• Include the notice of hearing and any interim requests.
• Use an approved method of service.
• Personal service is best if possible.
• If you cannot serve, consider alternate service options.
• Follow the service deadline exactly. Late service risks adjournment.

17) File Proof of service.

• Complete an Affidavit or Proof of Service form.
• Attach copies of served documents and delivery confirmations.
• File the proof with the RTDRS before the deadline.

18) Submit your final Evidence package.

• Some evidence may be due days before the hearing.
• Confirm the deadline on your notice.
• Send the same package to the landlord.
• Do not surprise the other side at the hearing.

19) Prepare for the hearing.

• Make a short outline of your key points.
• Put exhibits in the order you will refer to them.
• Practice explaining your timeline and calculations.
• Be ready to answer questions on each remedy.

20) Use Schedules and extra pages where needed.

• If the form lacks space, add a Schedule A for facts.
• Use Schedule B for remedies and calculations.
• Use Schedule C for your exhibit list.
• Number the schedules and reference them in the form.

21) Common form tips that help your case.

• Name the landlord correctly. Use the company’s legal name.
• Do not overclaim. Ask only for what you can prove.
• Be specific with dates, amounts, and outcomes sought.
• Keep language neutral and factual.
• Avoid duplication. One clear exhibit beats ten partials.

22) After filing, keep communication organized.

• Save all new messages from the landlord.
• Do not discuss settlement terms you cannot accept.
• If you settle, you can ask for a consent order.
• Put any agreement in writing and signed by both sides.

23) If your contact details change, update them.

• Inform the RTDRS and the landlord right away.
• Missed notices can lead to missed hearings.

24) If you need to amend your claim, act early.

• You may be able to add or adjust claims before the hearing.
• Serve any amended documents promptly.
• Explain why the change is needed.

25) If you seek costs, state them in your remedies.

• List the filing fee and service costs.
• Attach proof. Keep amounts reasonable.
• Costs are discretionary. Justify them briefly.

Completing the RTDR0008 is about clarity and proof. Tell a simple story. Align each remedy with facts and evidence. Serve on time. Show your math. Ask for outcomes an adjudicator can order. If you do that, you give yourself the best chance at a clear, enforceable decision.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Applicant means you, the tenant, who is filing the RTDR0008. On the form, you list your full legal name and contact details as the Applicant. Make sure the name matches your lease and government ID to avoid confusion at the hearing.
• Respondent means the person or company you are applying against. For this form, the Respondent is usually your landlord or property manager. Use the legal name from your lease or rent receipts. If the landlord is a company, use the exact corporate name.
• Remedy sought is what you want the decision-maker to order. In this form, you will list each remedy in clear terms, such as “return of security deposit,” “repairs,” or “compensation for loss.” Tie each remedy to facts and amounts so it is easy to understand.
• Evidence is the information that supports your claims. In this process, evidence can include your lease, inspection reports, photos, messages, and receipts. The form asks you to outline your facts. Your attached evidence should prove those facts.
• Service means giving a copy of your filed application and related materials to the Respondent. You must serve in an approved way and within the timeline set after filing. The form collects details that help you complete the service, such as the Respondent’s address and contact info.
• Affidavit of Service is a sworn document confirming how and when you served the Respondent. After serving, you usually file this affidavit before the hearing. It proves the Respondent had notice and allows the hearing to proceed.
• Possession Order is a direction about who gets legal possession of the rental unit. As a tenant, you might seek a possession order if you were unlawfully locked out, or you may seek terms to regain access. The form lets you request this when needed.
• Abatement is a reduction in rent due to a landlord’s breach, like failing to provide heat or fix critical issues. In this form, you can request an abatement and specify the period and amount. Tie the request to evidence showing the loss of use or value.
• Termination is an order ending the tenancy. As a tenant, you might seek termination if serious issues make the unit unfit or dangerous. If you ask for termination, be clear about the date you want it to take effect and why.
• Costs include filing fees and sometimes other reasonable expenses linked to the application. In this form, you can request that the Respondent reimburse you for the filing fee and related costs. You must ask for costs in the remedies section.
• Interim Order is a temporary decision made before the final hearing or final order. In limited situations, you can ask for urgent interim relief, like access to essential services. If you seek interim relief, state why it cannot wait.
• Adjournment is a delay of the hearing to a later date. You can request an adjournment if you need more time for evidence or service. Note the reason and act early. The form details should support any later request.

FAQs

Do you need the landlord’s exact legal name on the form?

Yes. Use the legal name from your lease, rent receipts, or security deposit records. If the landlord is a company, use the full corporate name. If you name the wrong party, you may need to amend and re-serve. That can delay your hearing and risk dismissal.

Do you have to list all issues in one application?

List all related issues between the same parties in one application when possible. If you file separate applications for the same facts, they may be combined or one may be dismissed. Add every remedy you want now. You may not get another chance later.

Do you have to serve the landlord after filing?

Yes. After filing, you must serve the Respondent with your filed application and any scheduled hearing details. Follow the approved service methods and deadlines you receive. Then file your Affidavit of Service. If you do not, your hearing may not proceed.

Do you need to include evidence with the application?

You should plan your evidence before filing. The form itself focuses on facts and remedies. You typically submit evidence as directed before the hearing. Keep all files organized and labeled. Bring copies to the hearing. Evidence wins or loses your case.

Do you need to attend the hearing in person?

You will get instructions on how to attend. Many hearings allow phone or virtual attendance. Make sure you are available, on time, and able to present evidence. Test your connections and have your documents ready. Disruptions can hurt your case.

Can you amend the application after filing?

You can often amend before the hearing, but you must follow the rules. If you change parties, amounts, or remedies, you will likely need to re-serve. Amend as early as possible to avoid delays. If the change is late, you may need an adjournment.

Can you recover the filing fee?

You can request to recover the filing fee in your remedies. If granted, it will appear in the order. Remember to ask for it in the application. If you forget, the fee might not be awarded.

Do you need to list joint tenants as Applicants?

List all tenants seeking the same remedies. If only one tenant signs, only that tenant is covered by the order. If the remedy affects all tenants, list all and have each sign. This prevents enforcement issues later.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application

Before signing: Information and documents you need

• Your lease or tenancy agreement, including any addendums.
• Move-in and move-out inspection reports.
• Rent ledger or a clear payment history.
• Notices exchanged, such as maintenance requests or entry notices.
• Photos and videos showing damage, defects, or conditions.
• Emails, texts, or letters with the landlord or agent.
• Receipts or invoices for repairs, alternate housing, or other losses.
• Security deposit receipt and interest records, if available.
• Proof of the landlord’s legal name and address.
• Any witness statements with contact details.
• Your timeline of events with dates and amounts.
• A clear list of remedies and the dollar amounts sought.
• Your calculation of any abatement or compensation claimed.
• Your calculation of security deposit interest, if you claim it.
• Identification and your current contact information.

During signing: Sections to verify

• Applicant details: Confirm your full legal name and contact information.
• Respondent details: Use the exact legal or corporate name and correct address.
• Rental unit: Verify the full civic address and unit number.
• Tenancy dates: Confirm start, end, and key event dates.
• Remedies sought: List each remedy and the exact amounts requested.
• Facts: State clear, chronological facts. Avoid opinions or speculation.
• Evidence summary: Note what you will rely on at the hearing.
• Urgent or interim relief: Explain why it is urgent, if you request it.
• Costs: Ask to recover the filing fee and other eligible costs.
• Signature and date: Sign where required. Confirm your information is true.

After signing: Filing, notifying, storing

• File your application and pay the fee using the available method.
• Record your file number and the hearing date and time, if assigned.
• Serve the Respondent using an approved method within the deadline.
• Complete and file your Affidavit of Service before the hearing.
• Prepare a hearing package with indexed evidence and page numbers.
• Send any required copies to the Respondent, if instructed.
• Test your equipment for a virtual or phone hearing.
• Store all documents in one labeled folder, digital and physical.
• Calendar all deadlines and follow-up tasks.
• Prepare a brief script of your key points and remedies requested.

Common Mistakes to Avoid RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application

• Don’t forget the landlord’s legal name. Using a nickname or the wrong company name can derail your case. You may face delays, adjournments, or dismissal. Check your lease and payment records to confirm the right name.
• Don’t omit a remedy you need. If you forget to ask for abatement, compensation, or costs, the decision-maker may not award them. List every remedy in the application. Add amounts and dates so the order can be enforced.
• Don’t ignore service rules. Late or improper service can stop your hearing. Serve by an allowed method and file your Affidavit of Service. Keep proof like delivery confirmations or signed acknowledgments.
• Don’t bring weak or disorganized evidence. Unsigned screenshots, unlabeled photos, or missing receipts reduce credibility. Label every exhibit. Include dates, addresses, and a brief note explaining relevance.
• Don’t miscalculate amounts. Overstated claims can hurt trust and lead to lower awards. Use clear math. Show how you calculated rent, abatement, interest, or repairs. Attach receipts and a simple summary table.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File the application and pay the fee. Confirm you receive a file number and hearing details. Save the confirmation to your records. Note any instructions on service, deadlines, and evidence exchange.

Serve the Respondent. Use an accepted method and include all required documents. Typical items include the filed application, notice of hearing, and any early disclosures. Track the method, date, and person served. Keep receipts and screenshots.

File your Affidavit of Service. Complete it as instructed. Include how, when, and where you served. Attach proof, such as delivery confirmations. File it before the deadline. Without it, the hearing may not proceed.

Organize your evidence package. Create a clean, logical bundle:

• A concise timeline of events.
• The lease and any addendums.
• Inspection reports and condition photos.
• Repair requests, notices, and responses.
• Rent ledger and payment proofs.
• Receipts for expenses and quotes for repairs.
• Any expert notes or contractor reports.
• Screenshots of messages with dates and names visible.

Number each page. Create an index. Highlight the parts that support your remedies. If instructed, provide a copy to the Respondent before the hearing.

Prepare your presentation. Outline your facts in order. Keep it tight:

• Who you are and the address.
• What went wrong and when.
• What you did to resolve it.
• The harm you suffered.
• The remedies and amounts requested.

Practice saying it in 5–10 minutes. Keep backup details ready if asked.

Attend the hearing. Arrive early or join the line five minutes before. Have your ID, file number, and evidence accessible. Speak clearly. Answer questions directly. Do not interrupt. Take notes on anything the decision-maker asks you to file later.

Ask about costs. At the end, confirm your request to recover the filing fee. Mention any other allowable costs you claimed. If awarded, it will appear in the order.

Receive and review the order. Read it carefully. Check the spelling of names, the address, and amounts. Note the deadlines and conditions. Save a secure copy. If you spot a clear error, ask about correction steps right away.

Comply with the order. If you must do something, do it on time and keep proof. If the landlord must pay or act and does not, note the deadline that passed. Ask about available enforcement options for unpaid awards or non-compliance.

Consider settlement at any stage. You can settle before or after filing. If you reach a settlement before the hearing, confirm it in writing. Ask how to update or withdraw your application. If you settle after an order, record compliance and keep proof.

Amend or add evidence if needed. If new facts emerge, ask early about amending the application or submitting late evidence. If allowed, serve updated materials on the Respondent and file proof.

Withdraw if the issue is resolved. If the landlord pays or repairs and you are satisfied, ask how to withdraw. Confirm the process in writing and keep the confirmation for your records.

Keep records for the future. Store the order, affidavits, and evidence for the full tenancy or longer. If issues recur, these records save time and support future applications.