RTB-19 Tenant’s Request to Join Applications for Dispute Resolution

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province/State: British Columbia

What is an RTB-19 Tenant’s Request to Join Applications for Dispute Resolution?

The RTB-19 is a procedural request. You use it to ask the Residential Tenancy Branch to hear more than one application together. The request is about efficiency and fairness. It asks the tribunal to join related files into one hearing.

This form belongs to the Residential Tenancy Branch in British Columbia. It applies to residential tenancy disputes under the provincial law. It does not decide your dispute. It asks the RTB to combine hearings.

You typically use this form as a tenant. You may have filed your own application for dispute resolution. Another party may have filed a related application. You can ask the RTB to hear both at the same time. You can ask even if different people filed the cases. The key is that the issues connect.

Joining often helps in shared tenancies. You may live with co‑tenants who filed separate applications. Each one might raise repair problems or rent issues. One hearing lets one arbitrator hear all the evidence once. You save time and reduce conflicting results.

Joining also helps where the issues overlap. Say the landlord filed to end your tenancy. You filed for repairs and a rent reduction. The facts may overlap. The same evidence and witnesses may apply. A joined hearing avoids duplication and confusion.

You may also use it to combine files at different stages. Perhaps one hearing date is already set. The other case is new. You can ask to join both to the scheduled date. Or you can ask to adjourn one and align the dates. The RTB decides based on fairness.

Why would you need this form?

You want a single, complete hearing on linked issues. You want to avoid inconsistent orders. You want to save time and costs. You want the arbitrator to see the full picture. You also want to avoid repeating witnesses and documents.

Typical usage scenarios

Mold, heat, or plumbing failures often affect all co‑tenants. Evidence overlaps. One hearing lets the RTB assess the unit and repairs once. Another scenario is disputes over unpaid rent and set‑offs. You may claim a repair credit. The landlord claims unpaid rent. One hearing allows a single net result.

You can use the form if the parties overlap. The same landlord and the same rental unit help your case. The RTB often looks for common questions of fact or law. The more overlap, the better. If the tenancies or issues differ, joining is less likely.

You can also use the form if multiple landlords are named. That occurs in strata rental situations. You may have a landlord and an agent. Or a landlord and a property manager. The RTB checks if the roles and issues are linked. If they do, joining can still work.

The RTB-19 is not a settlement tool. It is not a consent order. It is a procedural request. The RTB can grant it, refuse it, or tailor it. The RTB may join only parts of files. It can maintain separate hearings if fairness requires. Expect the RTB to exercise discretion.

When Would You Use an RTB-19 Tenant’s Request to Join Applications for Dispute Resolution?

Use the form when two or more active applications overlap. You should act as soon as you see the overlap. Early requests reduce scheduling issues. They also reduce the risk of conflicting orders. You can file the request even if hearing dates exist.

You would use it if you and a roommate filed separately. Maybe you both seek a rent reduction. You describe the same leaks and repair delays. Joining lets the RTB hear both claims together. One repair timeline and set of photos will cover both.

You would use it if the landlord filed to end the tenancy for unpaid rent. You filed to claim a rent abatement for lack of heat. The same period is in issue. The same rent ledger and communications matter. Joining lets one arbitrator consider both sides. It reduces two orders into one clear outcome.

You would use it if you filed a damage deposit claim. The landlord filed a claim for damages. Both concern the move‑out inspection. The same photos and witnesses apply. A joined hearing avoids duplicate testimony. It helps the RTB reach a fair, net decision.

You would use the form if different units share the same exact issue. That is less common. The RTB focuses on each tenancy contract. But some issues link across units. A building‑wide heat outage might be one. The RTB will consider fairness. It may join where evidence is identical and parties align.

You would use it if you filed a new application after your first filing. Perhaps new issues arose later. You can ask to join the new file with your existing one. Timelines matter here. The RTB will consider delay and prejudice. Explain why joining still helps.

Typical users include tenants who co‑signed a lease. It also includes subtenants and assignees in linked files. Landlords can also file join requests. Your form is the tenant version. You can still suggest joining with a landlord application. The RTB considers both versions similarly.

Use the form if you want a single order covering all linked issues. That can improve clarity and enforcement. It reduces the need for later corrections. It also reduces the chance of inconsistent directions. The RTB values efficient case management. Your request should show that joining helps.

Do not use the form to delay a hearing. The RTB checks for abuse. The RTB may refuse if joining causes an unfair delay. The RTB may also refuse where the issues are distinct. For example, a pet deposit claim and a separate illegal rent increase claim may not align. You should explain the connection clearly.

Do not use the form if joining risks prejudice. Private issues may affect one tenant and not another. Sensitive evidence might not fit a joined setting. The RTB will weigh privacy and fairness. In those cases, separate hearings may be best.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-19 Tenant’s Request to Join Applications for Dispute Resolution

The RTB-19 is a procedural request within a tribunal process. The form itself is not legally binding on its own. It does not change rights by itself. It asks the RTB to exercise statutory case management powers.

The RTB has the authority to manage its proceedings. It can join applications that share common issues. It can do so when fairness and efficiency support joining. The decision to join is discretionary. The RTB balances fairness and prejudice. The RTB also considers timeliness and scheduling.

If the RTB grants your request, it issues a direction or notice. That direction sets the joined hearing details. It may set a new date and time. It may confirm a current date for all files. It may also set conditions. Conditions can include new service steps or evidence deadlines.

A joined hearing leads to a single decision or coordinated decisions. The resulting order is legally binding. It is binding under the residential tenancy law. It can include monetary orders or compliance orders. It can direct repairs or rent adjustments. It can end or continue a tenancy.

Enforceability flows from the RTB’s final order, not the join request. The order can be filed in court for enforcement if needed. Monetary orders can be enforced as judgments. Compliance orders can be enforced through available mechanisms. Joining does not reduce enforceability. It can enhance clarity and reduce conflict.

What ensures enforceability is proper process. Accurate party names matter. Correct addresses matter. Proper service of the request and evidence matters. Clear reasoning in your request helps the RTB make a clean record. A clean record supports a robust order.

General legal considerations include privacy and fairness. Joining can expand who hears sensitive facts. Consider whether that is acceptable. You should avoid adding unrelated files. The RTB will deny requests that mix unrelated issues. You should avoid using the form to pressure settlement. The RTB will focus on procedural merit.

Another consideration is timing. Late requests may disrupt schedules. They can increase prejudice against other parties. You should file as early as possible. If a hearing is imminent, explain urgency and fairness clearly. Offer a plan for dates and service if needed.

Consider evidence management. A joined hearing raises volume. Organize your documents with a clear index. Ensure page numbers and dates. Use a single timeline that covers all files. That helps the arbitrator track facts. It also reduces confusion for all parties.

Finally, consider potential outcomes. The RTB may join in part. It may join only certain issues. It may set sequential hearings before one arbitrator. Be ready for a tailored direction. Address these options in your request. That shows you have considered fairness for everyone.

How to Fill Out an RTB-19 Tenant’s Request to Join Applications for Dispute Resolution

1) Confirm the files you want to join.

Gather each application number. Note the applicant and respondent for each. Note the current status of each file. Note any hearing dates or deadlines. You will need all of this information for the form.

2) Identify yourself and your role.

Enter your full legal name. Enter your contact details. Include phone and email. Confirm that you are a tenant. State your relationship to the rental unit. If you share the unit, list the co‑tenants’ names as known.

3) Identify the rental unit.

Enter the full civic address. Include the unit or suite number. Include the city and postal code. This connects the files to one tenancy. If files involve the same unit, say so. If they involve connected units, explain the link.

4) Identify the landlord or landlords.

Enter full legal names as used in the applications. Include the business name if used. Include known agents or property managers. Use the same spellings as the existing files. This keeps the parties consistent.

5) List the applications you want to join.

Enter each application number in full. Include the filing date if known. Include the applicant’s name for each. Include the current hearing date and time, if any. If a file is pending, state that no date is set.

6) Explain the connection between the applications.

Keep it factual and clear. State the shared issues of fact or law. Describe the overlapping evidence and witnesses. Connect your dates and events. Explain how one hearing will save time and avoid prejudice.

Example:

“Both files concern heat loss from October to December. The same photos, notices, and service records apply. The same landlord and unit are involved. One hearing will avoid duplicate testimony and conflicting orders.”

7) Address fairness and efficiency.

State why joining will not cause unfair delay. If joining affects dates, propose a solution. You can suggest using an existing date. Or you can suggest a short adjournment for alignment. Explain why that is fair for all parties.

8) Confirm service with other parties.

State whether you have consent from the other parties. Consent helps but is not required. If you have consent, attach it. If you do not, explain how you will serve this request. List the method and timing you will use.

9) Attach supporting materials as schedules.

Use a simple label scheme. For example: Schedule A: List of files and hearing dates. Schedule B: Timeline of events across files. Schedule C: Evidence index showing shared documents. Schedule D: Written consents, if any. Keep schedules clear and short. Cross‑reference page numbers where possible.

10) Complete any declaration or certification.

The form may include a declaration. You confirm the truth of your statements. Read it carefully. Sign and date the form. Use your usual signature. If submitting electronically, follow the submission guidance. Typed names can be accepted in some channels. If in doubt, sign by hand and scan.

11) Review for accuracy. Check all file numbers.

Check names and addresses. Check dates and times. Ensure your reasons are clear and focused. Confirm that your attachments match your references. Correct any typos that could confuse the RTB.

12) File the request with the RTB.

Use an accepted filing method. Keep proof of filing. A confirmation page or receipt helps. Note the date and time of filing. Prompt filing supports your fairness argument. It also helps with scheduling.

13) Serve the request on all parties.

Use an accepted service method. Serve the landlord and any other tenants on the files. Serve agents if they act on a party’s behalf. Keep proof of service. Record the date, time, and method used.

14) Prepare for the RTB’s response.

The RTB may grant or refuse your request. It may ask for more information. It may set a process to decide the request. Be ready to speak to the request at a hearing. Have your schedules available. Be ready to address fairness and timing.

15) If the RTB grants joining, adjust your evidence.

Combine your exhibits into one package. Keep a single index and page numbers. Remove duplicates where possible. Prepare a single witness list. Align your submissions to cover both files.

16) If the RTB refuses joining, plan accordingly.

Keep the files separate. Tailor evidence to each hearing. Avoid cross‑referencing across files without leave. Ask for an adjournment only if needed. Focus on fairness and clarity in each case.

17) If the RTB joins in part, follow the direction.

The RTB may join only certain issues. Track which issues are joined. Track which issues remain separate. Adjust your evidence plan. Make sure service covers the joined scope.

18) Keep communications professional and clear.

Use the file numbers in all messages. State whether you refer to joined files. Confirm any date changes. Confirm any service steps done after joining. Clear communication supports procedural fairness.

19) Track deadlines and next steps.

Joining does not pause evidence deadlines. The RTB may set new deadlines in its direction. Follow them strictly. Late evidence can be excluded. Keep a calendar for all joined matters. Share updates with other parties as required.

20) Maintain a clean record for enforcement.

After a joined hearing, you want a clear order. Clarity during the process helps. Accurate names, addresses, and amounts matter. This supports enforcement if needed. It reduces post‑hearing disputes.

Real‑world example: You and your co‑tenant each filed for a rent reduction due to a roof leak. The landlord filed to end the tenancy for unpaid rent. You complete the RTB-19 listing all three applications. You attach a timeline of the leak and repairs. You attach an evidence index showing shared photos and emails. You explain that one hearing will allow a net rent calculation. You also explain that the unpaid rent claim and rent reduction claim overlap in months and facts. You serve the landlord and your co‑tenant. The RTB grants the request and sets one date. You then file one combined evidence package. The arbitrator hears all three files in one sitting. You receive a single order addressing all issues.

Another example: You filed for a return of a security deposit. Your landlord filed a damages claim that covers the same move‑out date. You ask to join the files. You attach the move‑out inspection report once. You explain that one hearing lets witnesses attend once. You propose using the earlier scheduled date. The RTB grants the request. You present one set of photos and invoices. The arbitrator issues one clear outcome.

Common pitfalls to avoid: Do not list the wrong file numbers. Do not omit a party who is on a file. Do not assume consent. Do not wait until the day before a hearing. Do not attach irrelevant evidence. Keep your request focused on overlap, fairness, and efficiency.

If you keep your request clear and concise, you improve your odds. The RTB wants efficient and fair hearings. Show the RTB that joining serves that goal. Provide specific facts. Offer a practical scheduling plan. Serve all parties promptly. Keep your documents organized. You then give the RTB what it needs to decide. You also set yourself up for a stronger hearing.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

Application for Dispute Resolution: This is the formal request to have a tenancy issue decided. You complete this when you want an order about rent, repairs, deposits, notices, or conduct. You use this form to ask that two or more of these applications be heard together.

File number: Each application receives a unique number. You need every file number you want to join. Without correct numbers, your request can’t be processed.

Applicant and Respondent: The applicant started the application. The respondent is the person who replies to it. On this form, you must show who is the applicant and respondent for each file.

Joinder (Joining Applications): Joinder means combining applications into one hearing. You request joinder to avoid duplicate hearings. You must explain why the issues overlap and why one hearing is fair.

Arbitrator: An arbitrator decides tenancy disputes. The arbitrator will decide your request to join. They may also decide the joined dispute in the same or a later hearing.

Evidence: Evidence includes documents, photos, statements, and messages. Joined applications still follow evidence deadlines. You must share evidence with all parties in all joined files.

Service: Service means delivering documents to the other party. If you are told to serve this request, follow the method and timelines exactly. Keep proof of how and when you served.

Notice of Hearing: This sets the date, time, and method of the hearing. If your request is granted, a new notice may be issued. Read it carefully because deadlines may change.

Adjournment (Rescheduling): Joining can lead to rescheduling. This lines up the files for a single hearing. You should plan for the possibility of a new date.

Prejudice: Prejudice means unfair harm to a party. In your request, show how joining will not create unfairness. If there is any risk, explain how to minimize it.

FAQs

Do you need to pay a fee to file RTB-19?

No separate fee is typically required to request joinder. You already pay fees when you file an application for dispute resolution. This request only asks to combine existing applications. If you need to open a new application, normal fees apply.

Can you request to join the applications on the day of the hearing?

You can ask, but it’s risky. Last‑minute requests can be denied or cause a delay. File your request as early as possible so it can be considered before the hearing. If you must raise it at the hearing, be ready to explain urgency and fairness.

Do you need the other party’s consent to join?

Consent is not required. An arbitrator decides whether joining is efficient and fair. Still, stating whether the other party agrees or objects can help. If they object, address their likely concerns in your reasons.

Can you join applications with different addresses or different landlords?

Joining usually requires a common issue and a meaningful connection. The strongest cases involve the same tenancy, same parties, and overlapping facts. If the properties or parties differ, you must show why one hearing still makes sense and is fair to everyone.

Will joining delay your hearing date?

It can. To line up files, a new hearing may be set. Sometimes the original date remains. Watch for updated instructions. Build in time for a possible reschedule.

What happens to evidence deadlines after applications are joined?

Deadlines still matter. If a new notice is issued, follow the new deadlines. If no new notice arrives, assume the original deadlines apply. When in doubt, use the earliest deadline across the joined files and serve evidence on all parties.

What if one application is withdrawn or dismissed after joining?

The remaining application(s) can still proceed. The arbitrator may adjust the hearing scope or schedule. Tell the decision‑maker right away if any file changes status so directions can be updated.

Can you join more than two applications?

Yes. You can ask to join multiple files if the issues overlap and a single hearing improves fairness and efficiency. List each file and explain the connection. Make sure you can manage evidence and witnesses for all files together.

Checklist: Before, During, and After

Before signing: Information and documents you need

• All file numbers you want to join.
• Full legal names of every party on each file.
• Current contact details for all parties, including you.
• The tenancy address and unit number for each file.
• The original application type for each file (for your reference).
• The hearing date and time for each file, if scheduled.
• A clear summary of the overlapping facts and issues.
• A short, specific explanation of why one hearing is fair and efficient.
• Your availability and any urgent timelines (e.g., move‑out dates).
• Interpreter or accommodation needs, and preferred language if needed.
• Authorization if you file for another tenant, including contact info.
• Supporting documents you may refer to in your reasons (optional).
• A plan for evidence service if joinder is granted.

During signing: Sections to verify

• Confirm every file number is correct and complete.
• Match each file to the correct applicant and respondent.
• Check party names for consistent spelling across files.
• Confirm the tenancy address is accurate for each file.
• Make sure your reasons for joining are specific and practical.
• State how joining avoids unfairness or duplication.
• Note any known objections and explain why joining still works.
• Include your correct contact details and preferred communication method.
• Confirm interpreter or accommodation requests, if any.
• Sign and date the form. Use your legal name.

After signing: Filing, notifying, and storing

• File the form promptly through the accepted submission channel.
• Keep a time‑stamped copy of everything you submitted.
• Save any confirmation number or receipt.
• Calendar the hearing date(s) and set reminders for evidence deadlines.
• If instructed to serve the request, serve all parties and keep proof.
• If a new notice of hearing arrives, read it twice and update deadlines.
• Tell witnesses about any new date and confirm their availability.
• Organize evidence so it is labeled and served for all joined files.
• Store records in one folder per joined matter for easy access.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing or wrong file numbers

Don’t forget to list every file you want to join. A wrong or missing number can stall your request or lead to a denial. Double‑check each number against your notices.

Vague reasons for joining

Don’t say only “to save time.” Explain the overlap in facts, parties, and remedies. Weak reasons reduce your chance of success and may cause a delay.

Waiting until the last minute

Don’t wait to file until just before a hearing. Late requests can be denied or force an adjournment you didn’t want. File as soon as the overlap becomes clear.

Not addressing fairness

Don’t ignore possible prejudice. If joining could inconvenience someone, propose a fair fix. Failing to address fairness can sink your request.

Forgetting service or proof of delivery

If you are told to serve the request, don’t skip it. Missing service or lacking proof can derail the process. Keep records of how and when you served.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

1. File your request. Submit the completed form through the accepted channel. Aim to file well before any scheduled hearing.

2. Track confirmation. Save any receipt or confirmation number. Note the date and time of filing.

3. Serve if required. If told to serve the request, deliver it to all parties using the required method. Keep proof of service.

4. Monitor for directions. Watch for a decision on joinder. You may receive a new notice of hearing or written directions.

5. Adjust your calendar. If a new date is set, update reminders. Recalculate evidence deadlines based on the latest notice.

6. Update your evidence plan. Prepare one organized evidence package for the joined matter. Label items clearly and serve all parties.

7. Coordinate witnesses. Confirm witness availability for the new date. Provide clear instructions on how they will attend.

8. Manage objections. If another party objects to joinder, be ready to respond. Keep your explanation focused on fairness and efficiency.

9. Request accommodations early. If you need an interpreter or other support, ask early. Confirm arrangements before the hearing.

10. Consider amendments. If issues change, request amendments promptly. Do not wait until the hearing to fix avoidable gaps.

11. Keep communication clear. Use the same contact details across files. Respond quickly to any message about scheduling or directions.

12. Store your records. Keep the form, confirmations, notices, and service proofs together. You may need them during the hearing.