RTB-12T-O – Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution – Other Issues

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

What is an RTB-12T-O – Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution – Other Issues?

This is a tenant application to the Residential Tenancy Branch for a hearing. You use it to ask an arbitrator to resolve “other” tenancy issues. These are matters that do not fit neatly into the standard application categories. You can seek orders that require your landlord to comply with the law or your tenancy agreement. You can also ask for related remedies linked to those issues.

This form is designed for tenants and co-tenants in British Columbia. Former tenants can also use it in some circumstances. An authorized agent, such as an advocate or lawyer, may apply on your behalf. The respondent is usually your landlord or the landlord’s agent or property manager. You may need to name more than one respondent if more than one person controls the tenancy.

You would use this form when you need a binding decision. You need it when your landlord will not agree to fix a problem. You need it when internal complaints or written requests have failed. You use this form to get an order that the landlord do or stop doing something. You can also ask for compensation or a rent reduction where the issue justifies it.

Typical usage scenarios include access, services, and compliance. Your landlord may have disabled your fob or parking without cause. The building might have removed storage or amenities included in your rent. A landlord may refuse to provide receipts or a proper address for service. You may need an order to allow a service animal or scooter in a building. You might face repeated entries without proper notice. The landlord might block you from assigning your unit when the law requires fair consideration. You could need an order requiring repairs tied to safety or basic services. You might seek an order to stop harassment or interference with your quiet enjoyment. You could ask for the return of an illegal fee and an order not to charge it again.

You can include multiple issues in one application if they are related. For example, you can ask for an order to restore services and a rent reduction for the time lost. You can also request compensation for expenses caused by the issue. Keep the application focused and fact-driven. The arbitrator will expect clear remedies tied to clear facts.

This form triggers a formal hearing process. After you file, you receive a Notice of Hearing. You must serve the landlord with the application and the hearing notice. You must also exchange your evidence by the deadlines in the notice. An arbitrator will then hear both sides and issue a written decision.

When Would You Use an RTB-12T-O – Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution – Other Issues?

Use this form when your issue is real, ongoing, and not resolved by discussion. Use it when your problem does not fit standard applications for monetary claims or ending a tenancy. It applies when you seek non-monetary orders or specific compliance orders. It also fits when you need compensation connected to a non-standard issue.

For example, your landlord removed your mail key and will not return it. You have proof that you are the lawful tenant. You asked for the key many times and were ignored. You want an order that the landlord provide a key by a set date. You may also ask for reimbursement for a temporary mailbox service.

Consider another case. The landlord shut off your storage locker, which was part of your tenancy. They gave no proper notice and no reason. You want an order to restore access. You also seek a rent reduction for the period you lacked the locker. You can explain what that loss meant to your use and enjoyment.

You might also face repeated unlawful entries. The landlord entered your unit without proper notice and without consent. You asked them to stop. It keeps happening. You want an order that they comply with the entry rules. You may ask for a modest rent reduction for loss of privacy or peace.

A tenant with a disability may need to charge a mobility device in a common area. The building refused, even though fire safety would not be affected by a dedicated outlet. You can ask for a reasonable accommodation order. You will need to support the request with evidence. The arbitrator can order the landlord to allow a practical accommodation that respects safety.

You may have illegal fees added to your ledger. Examples include monthly “administration” fees or repeated “late” charges not permitted. You can apply for an order that the landlord stop charging those fees. You can also ask for repayment of fees already paid. You should provide statements, receipts, and your tenancy agreement.

You may need an order requiring the landlord to provide a proper service address. You need that address to serve documents. You can also seek an order that the landlord provide receipts for rent. If the landlord refuses, this form lets you request a compliance order.

Typical users are current tenants who want practical orders. Co-tenants often apply together to avoid duplicate hearings. Former tenants may apply for orders connected to issues that arose near the end of the tenancy. Business tenants do not use this form. This process applies to residential tenancies in British Columbia.

Use this form when timing matters and voluntary compliance has failed. It is appropriate when your evidence is ready and the remedy is clear. It is not a step to take lightly. You commit to service, disclosure, and attending a hearing. If you need urgent relief, you can request an expedited hearing when you file. You must explain why the issue is urgent. The Branch decides if it qualifies.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-12T-O – Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution – Other Issues

This process leads to a legally binding decision. An arbitrator appointed under the residential tenancy laws conducts the hearing. The arbitrator issues a written decision and, if appropriate, a formal order. Both parties must follow that order. The order remains in force unless set aside on review or appeal as allowed by law.

Enforceability comes from statute and procedure. You must file your application properly and pay the fee or obtain a waiver. You must serve the landlord by an approved method. You must prove service. You must provide your evidence to the landlord and to the Branch by the deadline. The arbitrator only considers properly served and disclosed evidence, except in limited cases.

The arbitrator can make a range of orders. They can order the landlord to comply with the tenancy agreement and the law. They can order restoration of services and access. They can order the landlord to stop an unlawful practice. They can issue repair or maintenance orders and set compliance dates. They can grant rent reductions tied to the loss of use or enjoyment. They can award compensation where you prove loss and causation. They cannot order remedies outside the legal framework for residential tenancies.

Your application must be grounded in facts, not speculation. Bring records that show what happened, when, and how it affected you. The standard is based on evidence and the balance of probabilities. The arbitrator will assess credibility and reliability. Consistency helps. A clear timeline and organized exhibits help more.

There are time limits for some claims. Compensation claims and some disputes must be filed within set periods. If your tenancy has ended, certain deadlines may apply. File as soon as you can. Delay can weaken your case even if it is still within time. The arbitrator can also consider whether you tried to resolve the issue before filing.

Procedural fairness is central. You have the right to notice, to present evidence, and to question the other side. The landlord has the same rights. The arbitrator may ask questions and control the hearing. You must remain respectful and focused on the issues in your application. New issues raised for the first time at the hearing may not be heard.

If the arbitrator issues an order, it can be enforced if the landlord does not comply. Monetary orders can be filed in court for enforcement as a judgment. Orders for possession or compliance can be enforced through the courts. Sheriffs or court bailiffs can enforce possession or access orders. Always read your decision for the exact enforcement steps.

You can ask the Branch to review a decision in specific circumstances. Grounds include a party not getting notice of the hearing or new evidence that was not available earlier. There are strict deadlines for review requests. Reviews do not re-argue your full case. They address procedural fairness or truly new evidence. If you disagree with the law, court review may be possible. Get advice quickly because timelines are short.

How to Fill Out an RTB-12T-O – Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution – Other Issues

1) Confirm this is the right form.

• Use this form for non-standard tenant issues needing compliance orders.
• If your issue is only money, confirm whether another category fits better.

2) Gather your facts and documents.

• Collect your tenancy agreement and any addenda.
• Save notices, emails, texts, letters, and photos.
• Keep logs of dates, times, and witness names.
• Get repair requests or work orders in writing.
• Prepare receipts for any expenses you claim.

3) Identify the parties correctly.

• List yourself as the applicant with your full legal name.
• Include all co-tenants if you want joint orders.
• Name the landlord as the respondent by legal name.
• Add any property manager or agent as a respondent if needed.
• Use the landlord’s service address from your agreement or rent receipt.

4) Complete your contact information.

• Provide a phone number and email that you check often.
• Choose how you want to receive documents.
• If you have an agent, list their contact details and authority.

5) Enter tenancy details.

• Provide the full rental address, including unit number.
• State the tenancy start date and whether it is ongoing.
• List the monthly rent and what it includes.
• Record the security and pet deposit amounts and dates paid.

6) Select the “Other Issues” category.

• Indicate that you are a tenant filing about other issues.
• If the form allows subcategories, choose the best fit.
• If none fit, you will describe the issue in your own words.

7) State the remedies you seek.

• Ask for clear, specific orders that an arbitrator can make.
• Use simple language and set compliance dates where needed.
• Examples:
• Order the landlord to restore parking access within seven days.
• Order the landlord to stop entering without proper notice.
• Order a rent reduction of $100 per month from May to July.
• Order repayment of the $150 illegal administrative fee.
• Order the landlord to provide a proper service address.

8) Write your statement of facts.

• Tell the story in chronological order.
• Use dates, names, and short sentences.
• Focus on what happened and how it affected you.
• Avoid opinions and stick to facts you can prove.

9) Link facts to remedies.

• Explain how each fact supports a specific order.
• Show the harm or loss from the issue.
• For compensation, connect expenses to the landlord’s conduct.

10) List and label your evidence.

• Number each exhibit and give it a short title.
• For example, Exhibit A: Tenancy Agreement dated March 1.
• Exhibit B: Email to landlord requesting key on June 10.
• Exhibit C: Photo of disabled fob reader dated June 12.
• Exhibit D: Receipt for mailbox rental, $45.

11) Add witness information if relevant.

• List each witness with a short summary of their knowledge.
• Include witness contact details if the form asks.
• Confirm your witnesses can attend the hearing.

12) Request accommodations if needed.

• Ask for an interpreter or accessibility measures.
• Explain the need briefly and clearly.

13) Choose hearing preferences.

• Indicate if you prefer phone or another available option.
• Provide your availability if the form asks for it.
• Be ready for the Branch to set the final schedule.

14) Complete the fee section.

• Pay the application fee as instructed.
• If you cannot pay, request a fee waiver and attach proof.
• Keep your payment receipt or waiver decision.

15) Sign and date the application.

• Read the declaration carefully before signing.
• You certify that the facts are true to the best of your knowledge.
• If an agent signs, they confirm their authority.

16) Prepare schedules for extra detail.

• If a box is too small, attach “Schedule A – Facts.”
• Add “Schedule B – Remedies Requested” if helpful.
• Add “Schedule C – Evidence List” with exhibit numbers.
• Reference each schedule in the main form where relevant.
• Number pages and include your file number on each page.

17) File the application and keep copies.

• Submit the form and attachments as instructed.
• Save a complete copy for yourself.
• You will receive a Notice of Hearing and a file number.

18) Serve the landlord properly.

• Serve the application and Notice of Hearing on each respondent.
• Use an approved service method.
• Calculate the deadline using the hearing notice.
• Keep proof of service, such as a declaration or receipt.

19) Exchange evidence by the deadline.

• Send your exhibits to the landlord and to the Branch.
• Follow the evidence deadline in your hearing notice.
• Use the same exhibit numbers in all copies.

20) Organize a hearing package.

• Create a table of contents with exhibit numbers and titles.
• Number every page consecutively.
• Prepare a short opening statement with your key points.

21) Practice your presentation.

• Rehearse your timeline in five minutes or less.
• Prepare to answer questions about dates and exhibits.
• Be ready to state exactly what orders you want.

22) Attend the hearing and present clearly.

• Join on time and have all documents ready.
• Start with your remedies, then your facts.
• Refer to exhibits by number when speaking.

23) After the hearing, watch for the decision.

• Read the decision carefully when you receive it.
• Note any compliance dates or next steps.
• If the landlord does not comply, consider enforcement.

24) Update your records.

• Save the decision and order with your tenancy file.
• Record any compliance or non-compliance.
• Keep receipts for any ongoing losses ordered to be reimbursed.

Tips for stronger applications:

• Be specific. “Restore parking access by June 30” is better than “Fix parking.”
• Be concise. Arbitrators value clear, short, factual statements.
• Be consistent. Align your timeline with your documents.
• Be proportional. Ask for remedies that match the harm shown.
• Be ready to compromise. Settlements can resolve cases faster.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Naming the wrong landlord or missing a respondent.
• Vague remedies that the arbitrator cannot enforce.
• Late service or late evidence disclosure.
• Submitting long narratives without dates or proof.
• Surprisingly, the other party had new evidence at the hearing.

Real-world example:

You rent a unit with a storage locker included. In April, the landlord removed your lock and reassigned the locker. Your emails show repeated requests for restoration. You rent off-site storage for two months. You apply using this form. You ask for an order to restore your locker within seven days. You seek a rent reduction of $75 per month for April and May. You request reimbursement for two months of off-site storage. You attach your agreement, photos, emails, and receipts. You serve and disclose on time. At the hearing, you present a clear timeline and tie each remedy to the evidence. The arbitrator issues an order for restoration and partial compensation.

Another example:

Your landlord charges a $25 “admin fee” each month. Your tenancy agreement does not allow it. The fee is not permitted by law. You apply for an order that the landlord stop charging the fee. You seek repayment of fees paid in the last several months. You attach rent ledgers and payment receipts. You prove the fee was charged and paid. The arbitrator orders the landlord to stop and to repay the fee.

Use this form when you need a clear, enforceable outcome. A focused application with solid proof gets traction. Keep your ask simple, your facts tight, and your evidence organized.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

Applicant: This is you, the tenant applying for dispute resolution. You complete and sign the form. You present your facts, evidence, and requested remedies. Your contact details must let the decision-maker and the landlord reach you.

Respondent: This is the other party, usually your landlord or their agent. You must list their correct legal name and contact details. You must serve them with your application and evidence on time.

Arbitrator: This is the neutral decision-maker who conducts the hearing. The arbitrator reviews your form, your evidence, and your testimony. They may ask questions and issue a written decision, called an order.

Dispute Resolution: This is the hearing process that resolves tenancy disagreements. It is less formal than court. You present your case, the landlord responds, and the arbitrator decides the outcome.

Other Issues: This category covers disputes not covered by standard application types. Use it when your problem does not fit the usual options. Describe the issue clearly and state exactly what you want ordered.

Remedy: A remedy is what you ask the arbitrator to order. Examples include a monetary order, access to services, or directions to follow the agreement. List each remedy and link it to your facts and evidence.

Evidence: Evidence supports your claims. It includes emails, texts, letters, notices, photos, audio, receipts, ledgers, and witness statements. Label each item and explain how it proves your points.

Service: Service means giving the landlord copies of your filed application and evidence. You must use an accepted method and meet the deadline. Keep proof that you served the materials.

Monetary Order: This is an order that the other party must pay money. Examples include compensation for losses or repayment of amounts owed. Provide receipts, invoices, or ledgers to prove the amount.

Adjournment: An adjournment is a delayed hearing date. It may occur if a party lacks required documents or needs more time. You can request one, but approval is not guaranteed.

Dismissed: An application can be dismissed for procedural or substantive reasons. Common reasons include late service, missing evidence, or using the wrong form. A dismissal usually ends the application.

Settlement: You and your landlord can agree to resolve the dispute. You can ask to record the agreement as an order. Keep any settlement terms clear and in writing.

FAQs

Do you have the right form for your issue?

Yes, if your dispute does not fit a standard category. This form is for “Other Issues.” Read your facts and remedies and ask yourself if another form fits better. If not, use this one and explain the issue clearly.

Do you need to serve the landlord after filing?

Yes. You must serve the filed application and supporting evidence. Use an accepted delivery method. Meet the service deadline on your notice of hearing. Keep proof of service. You will likely need to confirm service at the hearing.

Do you need to include evidence with your application?

Attach key documents when you file, if possible. You may also submit more evidence before the deadline on your hearing notice. Label each item and explain how it supports a specific remedy. Avoid sending duplicates or irrelevant materials.

Do you pay a fee to apply?

Most applications require a filing fee. Fee relief may be available in some cases. If you plan to request fee relief, include that request with your application. Keep proof of any payment or waiver request.

Do you need witnesses?

Witnesses help if they saw or heard important events. Get a short written statement signed and dated. Include how they know the facts. Ask if they can attend the hearing by phone or video. Ensure they can be reached at the scheduled time.

Do you need to attend the hearing in person?

Hearings are often conducted by phone or video. Read your hearing notice for the format and details. Test your phone or computer ahead of time. Find a quiet place with stable service. Have your evidence and notes ready.

Do you need an interpreter?

Ask for an interpreter as early as possible. State the language and dialect needed. Bring your own support person for note-taking if helpful. You must still answer the arbitrator’s questions directly.

Can you change or withdraw your application?

Yes, in many cases. You can request to amend your claims or remedies. You can withdraw before or during the hearing, depending on timing. If you change your materials, you may need to re-serve the landlord. Document any changes you make.

Checklist: Before, During, and After

Before signing:

• Your full name, current address, and reliable contact details.
• The landlord’s exact legal name and address for service.
• Your tenancy agreement and any amendments.
• Notices, letters, and emails were exchanged about the issue.
• Photos, videos, receipts, invoices, and repair records.
• A rent ledger and proof of any payments.
• A clear timeline of dates and events.
• Witness names, contact information, and signed statements.
• A list of remedies you want, itemized and specific.
• Proof of any losses, with amounts and calculations.
• A draft index of your evidence, with labels and page numbers.
• Access details for a phone or video hearing.
• Any request for urgent scheduling or interpreter needs.
• A plan for serving the landlord, including proof of service.

During signing:

• Confirm you selected the “Other Issues” category.
• Verify your name and the landlord’s legal name.
• Check the rental address and unit number.
• State the issues using dates and facts, not opinions.
• Link each issue to a requested remedy.
• Enter clear amounts for any compensation requested.
• Confirm your evidence list matches your attachments.
• Note any accommodation requests you need for the hearing.
• Review the service method you will use.
• Sign and date the application.
• Make sure all required fields are complete.
• Save a copy of everything you submit.

After signing:

• File the application using the approved method.
• Pay the filing fee or submit your fee relief request.
• Calendar all deadlines on your hearing notice.
• Serve the landlord with your filed application and evidence.
• Keep proof of service in your records.
• Confirm the hearing date, time, and connection details.
• Prepare a short opening statement and key points.
• Organize your evidence with labeled tabs and an index.
• Arrange for witness attendance and contact details.
• Test your phone or video setup.
• Prepare questions you may ask the landlord or witnesses.
• Plan a brief closing statement that ties evidence to remedies.
• Keep everything accessible on the hearing day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong form or wrong category. If your issue fits a standard form, use that instead. Filing the wrong form can cause dismissal. Don’t forget to match your issue to the correct category.

Leaving out the remedies you want. If you do not ask, the arbitrator may not grant it. This applies to money and non-money remedies. Don’t forget to list each remedy clearly.

Missing the service or evidence deadlines. Late materials may not be accepted. Your application could be adjourned or dismissed. Don’t forget to calendar every deadline on your hearing notice.

Failing to prove the amount you claim. Unsupported numbers are easy to reject. Use receipts, invoices, and calculations. Don’t forget to show how you reached each amount.

Submitting disorganized or irrelevant evidence. Large, messy files waste time and confuse your case. The arbitrator can ignore weak materials. Don’t forget to label and index only what matters.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File your application. Submit the completed form through the approved channel. Include your evidence or an evidence list. Pay the fee or include your fee relief request. Get a confirmation or receipt and save it.

Serve the landlord. Deliver the filed application and evidence by an accepted method. Do this within the required time. Keep proof of service, such as a declaration or tracking record. You will need this at the hearing.

Read your hearing notice. It states the date, time, and how to connect. It also sets evidence and service deadlines. It may include special instructions. Follow every instruction.

Prepare your hearing package. Create a clean index of your evidence. Number pages and label exhibits. Add a short timeline of events. Include a list of remedies and the evidence that supports each remedy. Prepare an opening statement of two to three minutes.

Organize witnesses. Confirm who will attend and how to reach them. Share the hearing date and time with them. Ensure they have the exhibits they need to reference. Remind them to answer only what they know.

Practice your presentation. Rehearse your opening, key points, and closing. Practice presenting documents quickly by exhibit label and page number. Prepare short, clear answers to expected questions.

Consider settlement. You can discuss the resolution with the landlord before the hearing. Put any agreement in writing. You can ask to convert a settlement into an order. Do not delay service or deadlines while you talk.

Manage changes. If you need to amend your claims, request permission early. Update your evidence if needed. Re-serve any changed materials. Keep records of what you changed and when.

Attend the hearing. Show up on time. Have your evidence and notes ready. Keep your phone or video connection stable. Speak clearly and stick to the facts. Answer the arbitrator’s questions directly.

After the hearing. Wait for the written decision. Read it fully. Follow any directions and timelines. If you receive an order, comply with it. If you receive a monetary order, keep it safe with your file.

Enforcement steps. If the other party does not comply, you may need enforcement. This can involve additional steps outside the hearing process. Keep all documents organized in case you need them.

File management. Store the application, evidence, proof of service, and the order together. Keep both digital and paper copies. Use clear file names and dates. This protects you if issues arise later.

Communication. Keep communication professional and brief. Avoid unnecessary messages. Document important exchanges. Save confirmations of any agreements or actions taken.

Review and learn. Note what worked well and what did not. Update your evidence checklist for next time. Keep templates for timelines, indexes, and statements. This saves time if you need to apply again.