RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: Alberta

What is an RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent?

This is the standard application landlords use to ask Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) to end a tenancy and award unpaid rent. It combines two urgent remedies in one file. You ask for vacant possession and a monetary order. You can also ask for related amounts connected to rent, like utilities, NSF charges, or late fees allowed by your lease.

You complete the form, file it with RTDRS, serve the tenant, and attend a hearing. An RTDRS Tenancy Dispute Officer hears your case. If you prove your claim, the officer can grant termination and a money judgment. The order will set a possession date and list the amounts owing. You can then enforce the order if the tenant does not comply.

Who typically uses this form?

Residential landlords, property managers, and corporate owners. It is designed for residential tenancies, including houses, apartments, basement suites, and similar rented homes. Mobile home site landlords also use RTDRS. Tenants do not use this form. Tenants have their own application types.

You would use this form when your tenant has not paid rent, and you want both the unit back and the arrears paid. You might also use it when the tenant keeps paying late, has abandoned the unit, or stayed past the end of the term. The form allows you to present the facts, attach proof, and ask for specific orders in one process.

Typical usage scenarios

Your tenant has missed the last two rent payments. You want a termination order and a judgment for the two months’ rent, plus a daily amount until move-out if the tenant stays. Your fixed-term lease ended, but the tenant has held over. You want possession and rent for the holdover period. Your tenant’s cheque bounced. You want termination and the unpaid rent plus the actual NSF fee you paid to your bank. Your tenant failed to pay utilities they are responsible for under the lease. You want those sums included in the unpaid rent claim if the lease ties them to rent. Each of these fits this application.

The form is focused and practical. It tracks the details decision-makers need: party names, tenancy dates, rent amount, deposit, breach details, rent ledger, notice steps, and what orders you want. It also prompts you to list and attach evidence. When well prepared, it gives the officer a clear path to grant termination and arrears.

When Would You Use an RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent?

You use it when you need the tenancy ended, and you are owed rent. The most straightforward case is non-payment. Rent was due on the first. Nothing was paid. You followed any required notice steps or chose to seek termination through RTDRS. The arrears continue, and you cannot wait. The form lets you request a quick hearing.

You also use it for repeated late payments that amount to a substantial breach. If the tenant pays late every month, that may justify ending the tenancy. The application allows you to show the payment history and ask for termination, plus the late amounts.

You use it where the tenant stayed after the lease ended. If your fixed-term ended and the tenant refused to leave, you can ask for possession and rent for the holdover period. You can also ask for a per diem amount until the possession date.

You use it if the tenant has abandoned the rental, you need termination confirmed, and rent owing must be set out. In abandonment, you may seek an order to end the tenancy, confirm the date, and award arrears until that date.

You use it where utilities form part of rent. If the lease says the tenant must reimburse you for utilities and they did not, you can include those sums as unpaid rent. You support the claim with the bills and the lease clause.

Small landlords, corporate landlords, and property managers all use this form. It fits when you need fast, enforceable results. It is also appropriate if you prefer a tribunal hearing instead of filing in court. If your main goal is possession plus arrears, this is the right route.

Legal Characteristics of the RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

The application itself is not an order. It is your formal request to the RTDRS to exercise its authority under Alberta’s residential tenancy laws. Once filed and served, it leads to a hearing. The result can be a binding order for termination and money. The order is legally binding on the parties named in it.

Enforceability flows from several features. First, the RTDRS has legal authority to hear and decide residential tenancy disputes, including termination and unpaid rent. Second, the process follows procedural fairness. You serve the tenant with the application and hearing notice. Both sides can present evidence. The decision-maker applies the law to the facts on the civil standard of proof, the balance of probabilities. Third, the resulting order can be filed with the court and enforced like a court judgment. That allows you to take steps to recover money and to regain possession if the tenant does not leave by the date set.

The order will usually specify a possession date. If the tenant does not vacate, you may need to take additional enforcement steps to physically recover the unit. Those steps require you to use approved civil enforcement processes. You cannot personally remove a tenant or their property without proper enforcement.

There are general legal considerations to keep in mind. You must name the correct legal parties. Use the full legal name of the landlord as shown on the lease or title, and the tenant’s full legal name as on the lease and identification if available. If the landlord is a corporation, use the corporate name and include the registry number if you have it. If you are a property manager or agent, you need written authority to act.

You should comply with notice requirements before seeking termination, unless you are permitted to apply directly for termination under the legislation. Many termination applications follow a proper written notice of substantial breach, like a 14‑day notice for non‑payment. In urgent misconduct cases, shorter notices may apply. If you apply without notice, be prepared to explain why and to show how the law supports termination on those facts.

There is a monetary cap on what you can claim at the RTDRS. If your claim is above the cap, you must limit your claim or use another forum. Check your totals before filing. The RTDRS will not decide claims it has no jurisdiction to hear. It also will not decide claims against people who are not parties to the tenancy.

Your claims must be reasonable and tied to the tenancy and the lease. You can claim base rent owed, utility charges the tenant is responsible for under the lease, reasonable late fees set out in the lease, actual NSF charges you incurred, and filing costs. You can also ask for ongoing rent on a per diem basis until the unit is returned. You cannot use the security deposit as rent while the tenancy continues. You can ask the officer to apply the deposit to arrears or damages when the tenancy ends, subject to interest rules and any set-off issues.

Decisions can be reviewed only in limited ways and on strict timelines. If you disagree with an order, there may be a path to request a review or to seek judicial review. These processes are time‑sensitive and narrow. Plan to present your best case at the first hearing.

How to Fill Out a RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

Follow these steps to complete the form accurately and support your claim.

1) Confirm you are using the correct form and remedy

• Use this application only if you want termination and unpaid rent. If your primary claim is for damages after move‑out, use a different form. If you only want money and not possession, consider whether termination is still needed. You can include related sums tied to rent in this form.

2) Gather the documents you will reference

• Lease agreement and any renewals.
• Rent ledger from move‑in to today.
• Any rent receipts.
• Notices you served (e.g., 14‑day notice for substantial breach).
• Proof of service of notices (photos, affidavits, emails, texts).
• Utility bills and proof of allocation if claiming utilities.
• Bank records for NSF fees and returned payments.
• Security deposit receipt and interest records.
• Inspection reports and photos if relevant to breach or abandonment.
• Your authorization to act if filing as an agent or property manager.

3) Complete the Applicant section

• Legal name of the landlord as on the lease or title. If a corporation uses the full corporate name. Add contact information: mailing address, phone, and email. If you are an agent or manager, put your own contact details in the representative fields and attach your written authority. Confirm you can accept documents at the address you provide.

4) Complete the Respondent (Tenant) section

• List each adult tenant named on the lease as a respondent. Use full legal names. Include the unit address, not just the building. Add any known phone numbers and emails. Accurate names are critical for enforceability. If you miss a tenant, the order may not bind them.

5) Tenancy details

• Type of tenancy: fixed‑term or periodic (monthly, weekly, etc.).
• Lease start date and, if applicable, end date.
• Monthly rent amount and due date.
• Security deposit amount and date received.
• Who pays which utilities, as per the lease.
• Whether there is a written lease. Attach a copy. If the lease is verbal, clearly describe the terms on rent, due date, and any utilities or late fee terms.

6) Grounds for termination

• State the breach in simple terms. For unpaid rent, specify which months are unpaid and how much for each. For persistent late payment, summarize the pattern and refer to the ledger. If the tenant held over after the term end, state the end date and that the tenant stayed without your consent.
• If you served a notice of substantial breach, include the date, method of service, and the expiry date on the notice. Attach a copy and proof of service.
• If you are applying without prior notice, briefly explain why. For example, a serious repeated breach, abandonment, or other reasons recognized by law.

7) Monetary claim for unpaid rent and related amounts

• Prepare a clear rent ledger. List each month with the amount due, the amount paid, and the outstanding balance. Start at move‑in and run to the hearing month. This shows the officer the story at a glance.
• Identify the unpaid rent total as of the filing date. Example: April unpaid $1,200; May unpaid $1,200; total arrears $2,400.
• Add NSF charges you actually paid, supported by bank records. If your lease allows late fees, state the amount and show the lease clause. Only claim reasonable late fees and only for late months.
• If utilities are the tenant’s responsibility, include them only if the lease ties them to rent or reimbursement. Attach the bills and show how you calculated the tenant’s share.
• Do not deduct the security deposit from rent while the tenancy continues. Instead, ask the officer to apply the deposit against the arrears after termination, with interest as required.
• Request ongoing rent on a per diem basis from filing to the possession date. Show the daily rate. To calculate: monthly rent x 12 ÷ 365 = daily rent. Example: $1,200 × 12 ÷ 365 ≈ $39.45 per day.

8) Remedies requested

Check and list the orders you want:

• Termination of the tenancy.
• Vacant possession on a specified date (or immediate if justified).
• Payment of unpaid rent in a set amount as of the hearing.
• Payment of NSF fees and reasonable late fees per the lease.
• Payment of utilities you paid on the tenant’s behalf, if applicable.
• Ongoing per diem rent until vacant possession.
• Authority to apply the security deposit and accrued interest to the arrears or damages.
• Costs of the application and the filing fee.
• Be precise. If you ask for possession in seven days, explain why that timeline is reasonable in your facts. If you ask for immediate possession, highlight urgency, risk, or history of breach.

9) Evidence list and attachments

In the evidence section, list each document with a short description:

• Lease agreement dated [date].
• Rent ledger updated to [date].
• 14‑day notice for substantial breach dated [date].
• Proof of service of notice (photo of door posting, text, or affidavit) dated [date].
• NSF bank statement entry dated [date].
• Utility bills [months].
• Security deposit receipt dated [date].
• Communications with the tenant admitting non‑payment or promising payment.
• Number your pages. Make it easy for the officer to follow. Ensure dates and amounts are consistent across documents. Avoid duplicative attachments.

10) Service details

• The RTDRS will issue a Notice of Hearing after you file. You must serve the tenant with the application, evidence, and the notice by the deadline in that notice. Service methods must meet RTDRS rules. Common methods include personal service and posting at the unit with a photo and a witness, but confirm what is acceptable for your case.
• Complete the service section with how, when, and by whom the service was done. If you use an affidavit of service or a declaration form, attach it. If you served by email or text as allowed, include proof that the address or number belongs to the tenant and that the message was delivered.

11) Declaration and signature

• Read the certification carefully. You are declaring the facts are true to the best of your knowledge and belief. False statements have consequences.
• Sign and date the form. If you are an agent or manager, sign with your full name and title. State that you have the authority to bind the landlord in this application. Attach your authority document.

12) Review your calculations

Cross‑check your totals. Confirm:

• Monthly rent amount matches the lease.
• Arrears total equals the sum of unpaid months.
• NSF and late fees match evidence and lease terms.
• Utility amounts match the bills and the lease allocation.
• Daily rent calculation is correct.
• Add the RTDRS filing fee to your costs request. Do not add it into rent. It is a separate cost award if granted.

13) File the application

• Submit the completed form and all evidence to the RTDRS. You will receive a file number and a hearing date. Keep copies of everything exactly as served.

14) Serve the tenant and file proof

• Serve the entire package and the Notice of Hearing by the deadline. Keep detailed notes and photos. File your proof of service with the RTDRS before the deadline. If service fails, act quickly. Ask for directions or a new method if needed.

15) Prepare your hearing outline

Draft a simple script:

• Identify the parties and the unit.
• Summarize the tenancy terms.
• State the breach: non‑payment dates and amounts.
• Walk through your ledger.
• Explain notice steps and service.
• Confirm the arrears total and daily rent.
• State the orders you seek and why the possession date requested is reasonable.
• Have your documents organized and ready to share in the hearing format provided.

Practical examples

• Example 1: Non‑payment for two months. The lease is monthly at $1,300 due on the first. April and May are unpaid. You attach the lease, ledger, and a 14‑day notice served on April 3. You ask for termination, possession in seven days, $2,600 arrears, $48.00 per day ongoing rent until vacant possession, the filing fee, and authority to apply the deposit to arrears.

• Example 2: Persistent late payment. Tenant paid late for six of the last seven months. Late fees are $25 per month on the lease. You attach the ledger and lease clause. You ask for termination based on substantial breach, possession in 14 days, the late fees ($150), and the filing fee. You also claim $1,300 for the current unpaid month if applicable.

• Example 3: Holdover after fixed term. Lease ended June 30. Tenant did not move. You ask for termination, possession in seven days, rent for July to the possession date on a per diem basis, and costs. Attach the lease showing the end date and any renewal refusal communications.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Missing or incorrect party names. Use legal names and include all adult tenants.
• Weak or missing proof of service. Follow the service rules and file proof on time.
• Vague amounts. Itemize arrears and attach a clean ledger.
• Claiming the security deposit as rent before termination. Ask for a set‑off only after termination.
• Unreasonable late fees or fees not in the lease. Only claim what the lease allows and what is reasonable.
• Submitting evidence that the tenant never received. You must serve exactly what you file.

Final checks before submission

• Every fact in the form is supported by an exhibit.
• Dates align across the lease, notices, and ledger.
• The story is clear in five minutes: who, what, when, how much, and what orders you want.
• Your contact details are correct so you receive the hearing notice and any communications.

By completing the RTDR0007 in this structured way, you present a clear, credible case for termination and unpaid rent. You make it easy for the officer to match the facts to the law and grant the orders you need.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Applicant means the person filing RTDR0007. You are the applicant if you seek termination and unpaid rent. You complete and sign the form.
• Respondent means the person you file against. Your tenant is the respondent. Name every adult tenant on RTDR0007.
• Tenancy agreement is the rental contract. It can be written, verbal, or implied. Attach a copy if you have one.
• Arrears are unpaid rent that is due. List the amount on RTDR0007. Include the dates that created the arrears.
• Termination of tenancy is a legal end to the lease. You ask for termination in RTDR0007. You must show a valid reason.
• Possession means the right to control the unit. You can request a possession order in RTDR0007. It lets you take the unit back lawfully.
• Notice is a written warning to the tenant. It may tell the tenant to pay or leave. Attach any notice you served to RTDR0007.
• Service means delivering documents to the tenant. You must serve the application and your evidence. Follow the service rules you receive.
• Affidavit of service is a sworn statement. It confirms how and when you served the tenant. File it before the hearing.
• Order is the tribunal’s written decision. It may grant termination, possession, and money for rent. Keep a certified copy for enforcement.

FAQs

Do you need to serve a notice before filing RTDR0007?

That depends on your facts. Some grounds need a prior notice. Others can be filed based on unpaid rent alone. Attach any notice you used. Explain the steps you took in your evidence.

Do you file one RTDR0007 for multiple tenants?

Yes. Name every adult tenant on the lease. Use full legal names if you know them. If you miss a tenant, the order might not cover them.

Do you include utilities or damages on RTDR0007?

RTDR0007 focuses on termination and unpaid rent. If you claim other charges, show they are rent under the lease. Use a separate process for pure damage claims if required.

Do you need the original lease to file?

No, but it helps. Attach a copy if possible. If you do not have one, explain the rent terms and payment history. Bring proof like a ledger and messages.

Do you have to attend the hearing in person?

Most hearings run by phone or video. You will receive joining details after filing. Log in early and test your audio. Keep your evidence ready to share.

Do you have to keep accepting rent after filing?

Be careful. Payments can affect your termination request. Record any payments clearly. Ask for a monetary order for the balance and ongoing rent until move-out.

Do you proceed if the tenant moves out before the hearing?

You can still seek unpaid rent. Tell the tribunal if the tenancy already ended. You may withdraw the termination part and continue for money only.

Do you need a representative to use RTDR0007?

No. Many landlords file on their own. You can use an agent or advisor if you prefer. Make sure the agent has your documents and authority.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

Before signing

• Confirm the correct legal names of all tenants.
• Confirm the full civic address of the rental unit.
• Identify the tenancy type and start date.
• Prepare a clear rent ledger with dates and balances.
• Gather proof of rent amount, such as the lease or addendum.
• Gather proof of non-payment, such as bank statements or receipts.
• Gather copies of any notices you served.
• Collect proof of service for any notices, such as photos or emails.
• Collect messages with the tenant about payment or move-out.
• Note any move-out commitments or payment plans.
• Confirm the termination ground you rely on.
• Confirm the possession date you will request.
• Decide if you want costs.
• Confirm any security deposit held and interest if applicable.
• Check your calendar for availability on likely hearing dates.
• Have your ID and contact details ready for the form.

During signing

• Verify the applicant name and mailing address.
• Verify the respondent names and unit address.
• Check the tenancy start date and rent amount.
• Confirm the arrears total and date range.
• Confirm the requested termination and possession dates.
• Reference any notice used, with date served.
• Describe the facts in clear, short statements.
• Review every yes/no box for accuracy.
• Attach your rent ledger and key exhibits.
• Sign and date the declaration.
• Ensure your contact details are current.
• Save a clean copy of what you filed.

After signing

• File the application using the instructed channel.
• Pay the filing fee as directed.
• Record the file number and hearing details.
• Serve the tenant with the full package.
• Use a permitted method for service.
• Complete an affidavit or proof of service.
• File proof of service on time.
• Prepare a single, numbered evidence package.
• Send your evidence to the tenant as required.
• Calendar all deadlines and the hearing start time.
• Test your phone or video setup before the hearing.
• Bring extra copies of your rent ledger and exhibits.
• Keep a binder with all documents and notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

Don’t forget to name every tenant.

• Consequence: The order may not bind unnamed tenants. You might need to reapply.

Don’t round or guess at arrears.

• Consequence: The decision-maker may reduce or deny the money award. Keep a precise ledger.

Don’t skip proof of service.

• Consequence: Your hearing could be delayed or dismissed. File clear proof, with dates and methods.

Don’t ask for the wrong termination date.

• Consequence: You may not get possession when needed. Explain why your date is reasonable.

Don’t mix unrelated claims without support.

• Consequence: Parts may be struck. Tie every claimed amount to rent or the lease. Use the correct process for other claims.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form RTDR0007 – Landlord’s Application for Termination of Tenancy and Unpaid Rent

1. File the application promptly. Use the filing method you were instructed to use. Pay any fee at the same time. Keep your receipt and the file number.
2. Watch for your hearing notice. It will list the date, time, and how to join. Read any directions about evidence and deadlines. Enter all dates on your calendar.
3. Serve the tenant. Deliver the application package and attachments. Use an approved method of service. Note the date, time, and method used.
4. File proof of service. Complete the service form or affidavit. File it before the deadline. Keep a copy for your records.
5. Prepare your evidence package. Include the lease, rent ledger, notices, and proof of service. Add messages, receipts, and photos if relevant. Number each page and make an index.
6. Send evidence to the tenant. Do this before the deadline. Use the same method if possible. Keep proof that you sent it.
7. Get ready for the hearing. Write a short timeline of events. Prepare a one-page summary of arrears and dates. List the orders you want, in plain language.
8. Join the hearing early. Have your file and calculator handy. Speak to the facts only. Refer to exhibits by page number.
9. Listen for the decision. You may receive an oral decision at the end. The written order will follow. Read it carefully when you get it.
10. Act on the order. If you receive a possession order, plan the move-out steps. If you receive a monetary award, plan collection steps. Follow the enforcement instructions that apply.
11. Handle payments after the order. Record any payment received. Provide receipts. If the tenant pays in full, confirm the file status with the tribunal.
12. If the tenant moves out or pays before the hearing, update your plan. You can ask to withdraw or narrow the application. Tell the tribunal and the tenant in writing.
13. If you need to amend your application, act early. Amendments often require permission and service. Explain the reason and give the updated documents to the tenant.
14. Keep your records. Store the application, order, and proof of service. Keep your rent ledger and communications. Retain records for the period you need.
15. Plan your handover. If you gain possession, document the condition. Take dated photos and a videotape walkthrough. Prepare a final rent calculation to the move-out date.
16. Review your practices. Update your rent tracking and reminder process. Use clear payment methods and receipts. Keep contact details current for all tenants.
17. If you need time to settle, consider a consent. You and the tenant can agree to terms before the hearing. Put any agreement in writing and signed by both.
18. If you miss a deadline, act quickly. Contact the tribunal for options. You may seek an adjournment or other direction. Explain the reason and show good faith.
19. Stay professional in all contact. Avoid threats or self-help steps. Use only the legal steps set out in your order. Keep notes of every interaction.