RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet

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

What is an RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet?

The RTB-37 is a calculation worksheet you use in British Columbia residential tenancy disputes when you ask for a monetary order. It organizes the amounts you claim or dispute and shows how you reached each figure. It also points the decision-maker to the evidence that supports every dollar.

Think of it as your financial roadmap for the hearing. It does not replace your application for dispute resolution. It supplements your application and your evidence package. You use it to list each claim category, explain your math, and attach proof.

Who typically uses this form?

Both landlords and tenants. Landlords use it to claim unpaid rent, utilities, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning, storage, or fees. Tenants use it to claim return of deposits, overpaid rent, repair costs they covered, compensation for loss of use, or the filing fee. Either side can also use it to respond with a counterclaim or to narrow the issues.

Why would you need this form?

Because money claims can get messy fast. Dates, deposits, rent periods, deductions, interest, and receipts can blur together. The worksheet forces clarity. It keeps you from double-claiming. It also helps the arbitrator see your logic in minutes, which makes your case easier to follow.

Typical usage scenarios

• You are a landlord seeking two months’ unpaid rent, one unpaid utility bill, and the cost to repair a broken window. You set out each item with dates, calculations, invoices, and photos. You also note the security deposit held and any credits already applied.

• You are a tenant seeking return of your security and pet damage deposits plus interest. You include proof of move-in and move-out condition reports, rent ledger entries, and a summary of what was already refunded. You also claim a rent abatement for three weeks without heat, with a clear method to value the loss.

• You are a landlord claiming loss of rent for a short vacancy period after a fixed term ended early. You attach the re-rent date, show your efforts to mitigate, and calculate a daily rent rate.

• You are a tenant who paid for an emergency repair after you gave proper notice. You seek reimbursement with the invoice, messages, and photos attached.

In each case, the worksheet pulls the numbers, dates, and proof into one tight package. It shows the arbitrator what you want and why, in a format built for fast review.

When Would You Use an RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet?

Use the worksheet any time you ask the provincial tenancy decision-maker to order payment of money in a British Columbia residential tenancy dispute. It applies to both ongoing and ended tenancies. You can use it when you file the application, when you submit evidence, or when you respond with a counterclaim. It fits both simple and complex files.

As a landlord, you use it when a tenant owes rent or utilities, leaves damage beyond normal wear and tear, or abandons belongings that require storage. It is also useful when you seek loss of rent after an early end to a fixed term. In that situation, you should show how you reduced your loss by trying to re-rent. The worksheet gives you a place to record dates, ads, and the re-rent date to support your claim window.

As a tenant, you use it when you want your deposits back, with interest, and the landlord has not returned them on time. You also use it when you claim a rent abatement because of a serious service loss, like a heat outage or a long water shutoff. You can describe the time period affected and apply a reasonable percentage of rent for that period. If you paid for a repair that the landlord should have handled, the worksheet lets you spell out the cost and link to your invoice and notice history.

You also use the worksheet to simplify hearings with many small items. For example, you can group cleaning, lock changes, and minor repairs into separate lines with separate proof. The arbitrator can see your subtotal for each category, then the overall total at the end.

Use the worksheet even if your claim feels small. A clear two-page calculation for one month’s rent and the filing fee will read better than scattered emails and guesses. If you are the respondent, the worksheet helps you track payments already made and flag errors in the other side’s numbers.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet

The worksheet itself is not a binding order. It is a supporting document. It explains your claim and points to evidence. The arbitrator reviews your worksheet, your evidence, and the other side’s response. After the hearing, the arbitrator may issue a written decision and a monetary order. The order, not the worksheet, is legally binding.

What ensures enforceability? A clear, well-supported claim presented within the tenancy dispute process. That includes proper service of documents, participation by both sides, and a reasoned written decision. Once the arbitrator issues a monetary order, you can enforce it through the court process if the other side does not pay. The worksheet will not be enforced by a court on its own, but it can support the record of how the amounts were decided.

General legal considerations:

• You must prove each claimed amount. Receipts, invoices, ledgers, emails, bank statements, bills, photos, and inspection reports matter. The worksheet helps you tie each dollar to a document.

• You cannot claim wear and tear. Carpets aging, minor nail holes, and normal paint scuffs are usually not recoverable. Damage beyond normal wear and tear can be, if proven.

• You must avoid double recovery. Do not claim the same rent twice under different labels. If you kept the security deposit for unpaid rent, show that credit and claim only the balance.

• You must mitigate your loss. For loss of rent claims, show when you listed the unit and when a new tenant moved in. Claim only the gap period you could not avoid.

• Security and pet damage deposits may earn interest while held. If you seek a deposit return, include interest using the prescribed rates for the dates the deposit was held.

• Filing fees for dispute resolution can often be claimed by the successful party. Include the fee at the end of your worksheet.

• Follow the evidence deadlines in your hearing notice. If you miss a deadline, the arbitrator may refuse your documents. That can sink your claim even if your math is solid.

• Keep your claim reasonable and connected to the tenancy. Punitive or speculative amounts will not help.

The bottom line: the worksheet is a tool. A precise, well-documented worksheet improves credibility. It also makes it easier for the arbitrator to award exactly what you can prove.

How to Fill Out a RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet

Follow these steps to complete the worksheet and prepare it for your evidence package.

1) Gather your records

• Collect the tenancy agreement, rent ledger, and any rent receipts.
• Find move-in and move-out inspection reports, if done.
• Pull photos, videos, and dated messages that show damage or service issues.
• Gather invoices, receipts, estimates, utility bills, and bank statements.
• Note deposit amounts, the dates paid, and any returns or deductions.
• Have your hearing notice handy for file numbers and deadlines.

2) Complete the header

• Enter the dispute resolution file number from your hearing notice, if assigned.
• Identify your role: landlord or tenant. Mark whether you are the applicant or the respondent.
• List the full legal names of all parties. Spell names as they appear on the tenancy agreement.
• Provide the rental unit address. Include the suite number.
• Provide your mailing address, phone, and email. Use an address where you can receive documents.

3) Record key tenancy details

• Fill in the tenancy start date and, if ended, the end or move-out date.
• State the monthly rent and the due date each month.
• Set out the security deposit and pet damage deposit amounts and the dates paid.
• Note any rent increases, with effective dates. This helps with calculating partial months.

4) Set up your claim categories

Create a separate line or section for each type of claim. Keep descriptions short and precise. Use one time period per line when possible. For each line, you will include description, dates, calculation, amount, and evidence reference.

Common landlord categories:

• Unpaid rent
• Loss of rent after early end
• Utilities unpaid
• Damage beyond wear and tear
• Cleaning and junk removal
• Lock changes and keys
• Storage or towing of abandoned property
• NSF charges and related bank fees
• Filing fee

Common tenant categories:

• Return of security deposit, with interest
• Return of pet damage deposit, with interest
• Overpaid rent or illegal rent increase recovery
• Rent abatement for service loss or construction impact
• Repair reimbursement
• Filing fee

5) Calculate unpaid rent

• List each month unpaid. For example: June and July.
• Use the monthly rent amount from the agreement.
• If claiming part of a month, calculate a daily rate. Divide the monthly rent by the number of days in that month. Multiply by unpaid days.
• Subtract any payments received for those months.
• Reference your rent ledger and bank records. Label them clearly (for example, Exhibit A1: Rent Ledger; Exhibit A2: Bank Statement).

Example: “Unpaid rent for June ($1,650) and July ($1,650) = $3,300. No payments received. Evidence: A1, A2.”

6) Calculate the loss of rent after early end

• Claim only the actual vacancy period until a new tenant moves in or the fixed term ends, whichever comes first.
• Show how you tried to re-rent. List ad dates and viewings.
• Calculate daily rent for the gap period and multiply by the number of days.
• Attach proof of the re-rent date (new tenancy agreement or rent ledger entries).

Example: “Vacancy from Aug 1 to Aug 20 = 20 days. Daily rate $55.00. Total $1,100. Evidence: B1 Ads, B2 New Lease.”

7) Calculate utilities

• Attach the bills. Highlight the service period.
• If the bill covers more than the tenancy period, pro-rate to the exact days.
• Deduct any payments already made by the tenant.

Example: “Hydro bill May 10–June 9. Tenancy ended May 31. Pro-rated 22/31 days = 71%. Total due $71.00. Evidence: C1 Bill.”

8) Calculate damage beyond wear and tear

• List each item separately: “Bedroom window repair,” “Stove element replacement,” “Wall hole patch.”
• Attach photos clearly showing the damage and the date taken. Add the move-in condition photos for comparison.
• If repair is completed, attach the invoice and proof of payment.
• If not completed, attach two written estimates where possible. Use the lower estimate unless you can justify otherwise.
• Do not claim betterment. If you replaced a worn item with a brand-new premium item, be ready to account for age and quality differences.

Example: “Replace broken bedroom window. Invoice $280.00. Evidence: D1 Photos, D2 Invoice, D3 Payment.”

9) Calculate cleaning and removal

• Attach before and after photos and an invoice. If you did it yourself, include receipts for supplies and a reasonable hourly rate with a time log.
• Do not claim routine cleaning that reflects normal use. Claim only excessive filth or abandoned items.

10) Calculate NSF and related fees

• If a cheque bounced, list the NSF fee and any direct bank charges you paid.
• Attach the bank notice and your account statement showing the fee.

11) Calculate tenant claims for deposits and interest

• State the security deposit and pet deposit amounts and dates paid.
• Note any amounts already returned and the date returned.
• Calculate interest using the prescribed annual rates for each year held. If you cannot calculate precisely, write “Interest on deposit as required” and show the dates so the arbitrator can apply the rate.
• Add the net amount you say remains owing.

Example: “Security deposit $825 paid Sept 1, 2021. No return as of Oct 15, 2023. Interest as required. Evidence: E1 Lease, E2 Receipt.”

12) Calculate rent abatement or compensation

• Describe the service loss period (for example, no heat from Jan 5 to Jan 25).
• Choose a reasonable method to value the loss. Many people use a percentage of the monthly rent for the affected period.
• Show the math. For example, 30% of the monthly rent for 20/31 days.
• Attach logs, photos, and messages that prove the loss and the dates.

13) Add credits and adjustments

• Deduct any payments received, insurance payouts, or deposit amounts you already applied to a specific debt.
• Avoid negative surprises. Show every credit you know about.

14) Claim the filing fee

• Add the dispute resolution filing fee at the end. Note that you seek recovery of the fee if you succeed.

15) Total your claim

• Subtotal each category so the arbitrator can see the building blocks.
• Then show a clear grand total. Make sure the math ties out.

16) Cite evidence next to each line

• Add a column or bracket to link each amount to exhibits. Use simple labels: A1, A2, B1, etc.
• Keep exhibit names short and descriptive. For example: “A1 Rent Ledger,” “D1 Damage Photos.”

17) Complete any declaration and sign

• If the worksheet includes a declaration or signature block, sign and date it.
• If not, add your name and date at the end. A simple “Prepared by [Name], [Date]” helps.

18) Attach schedules and supporting documents

• Treat your exhibits as schedules. Number them and list them after the worksheet.
• Use a contents page if you have many exhibits. Keep everything in one PDF if filing electronically.

19) Review for accuracy and fairness

• Check dates, amounts, and daily rate math.
• Ensure time periods do not overlap. Do not claim the same loss twice.
• Remove items you cannot prove.
• Confirm that the claimed damage is beyond wear and tear.
• Ensure you have deducted deposits or payments already applied.

20) File and serve on time

• Submit the worksheet with your evidence by the deadlines in your hearing notice.
• Serve the other party in an approved way. Keep proof of service.
• Bring a copy to the hearing so you can walk through it line by line.

Practical tips that help arbitrators:

• Put your strongest, most straightforward claims first. It sets the tone.
• Use clean, legible scans. Avoid blurry photos and partial invoices.
• Show your work. If you used a daily rate, include the calculation so no one needs to guess.
• Tie each claim to the tenancy. If a bill overlaps, pro-rate and explain why your slice is fair.
• Keep descriptions tight. “Unpaid rent July” reads better than “Various rent matters.”
• Keep the tone factual. Do not argue in the worksheet. Save arguments for your written submission or the hearing.

Common pitfalls to avoid:

• Mixing up move-out dates and billing periods. Match your dates.
• Forgetting to deduct the deposit you kept. Show that credit to avoid double recovery.
• Claiming for betterment. Replacing an old appliance with a luxury model does not shift that upgrade cost to the other party.
• Claiming cleaning or repainting that reflects normal use.
• Overreaching on abatement percentages without proof of the impact.

If you prepare the worksheet carefully, you make the arbitrator’s job easier. You also reduce the risk of arithmetic errors that can weaken an otherwise strong case. Your goal is simple: every dollar claimed is clear, proven, and easy to find.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

Monetary order means a decision that someone must pay money. On the RTB-37, you list each amount you want the decision-maker to order. Your totals on the worksheet support the monetary order you seek.

Applicant is the person filing the claim for money. If you are the one asking for payment, you are the applicant. Your name should match the name on the main application and the tenancy agreement.

Respondent is the person you say owes the money. If you claim against more than one person, list each respondent. The worksheet’s totals show what you claim from all respondents together unless you state otherwise.

The claim is for each separate amount you request. Examples include unpaid rent, repairs, cleaning, utilities, or filing fee recovery. On the worksheet, you itemize claims line by line so the totals are clear.

Evidence is the proof you attach to support each line item. Think invoices, receipts, photos, inspection reports, ledgers, and messages. The worksheet connects your numbers to this evidence, so label and reference it consistently.

Security deposit means the amount paid at the start of the tenancy to secure performance of obligations. A pet damage deposit is separate if collected. On the worksheet, you show how you applied these deposits and whether you owe a balance or seek a top-up.

Wear and tear refers to normal deterioration from ordinary use. You usually cannot claim for normal wear and tear. The worksheet helps you separate normal wear from damage or cleaning beyond the usual.

Mitigation means keeping your losses as low as reasonable. For example, getting competitive quotes or repairing promptly to reduce damage. On the worksheet, you show reasonable steps and actual costs, not inflated figures.

Set-off means crediting the other party for amounts already paid or owed back to them. On the worksheet, you deduct deposits, partial payments, or credits before you present your final total.

Interest is the time value added to amounts owed. The worksheet may include a space to show the interest claimed and how you calculated it. If unsure, note your method. The decision-maker can adjust interest if needed.

FAQs

Do you have to use the RTB-37 – Monetary Order Worksheet?

You should use it when you ask for money as part of your dispute. It helps you lay out each claim, show proof, and reach a clear total. Decision-makers expect a tidy calculation. This worksheet gives you that structure.

Do you include estimates or only receipts?

Use receipts and invoices wherever you can. Estimates can support a claim if the work is not done yet, but actual paid invoices are stronger. If you rely on estimates, include at least two, explain why the work is pending, and be ready to update with actuals.

Do you include the security or pet damage deposit?

Yes. Show the deposit amounts, interest if applicable, and how you applied them. If you kept part or all of a deposit against damages or rent, record that as a credit. If you returned some, show the refund. The worksheet should end with a net figure after deposits.

Do you claim interest on amounts owed?

You can. If you claim interest, show your calculation method and the period covered. Use clear start and end dates. If you do not know the interest rate or calculation, say you seek interest as allowed. The decision-maker can set it.

Do you split amounts between multiple respondents?

State if respondents are jointly responsible or if you seek different amounts from each. The worksheet total shows the full claim. If you want separate totals per person, add a breakdown note and attach a version for each respondent.

Do you include your own labour for cleaning or repairs?

Generally, you claim what you actually paid to others. Claims for your own unpaid time are often not recoverable. If you did the work yourself, you can still claim materials and supplies, and you may claim a reasonable labour cost if an agreement allows it. Always attach proof and explain your rate.

Do you have to serve the worksheet to the other party?

Yes. Serve the same version you filed, with all attachments. Keep proof of service. If you later update numbers, serve the updated version as well. This avoids surprise and allows a fair response.

Do you need to update the worksheet if numbers change?

Update it if you get new receipts, adjust for deposits, or discover errors. Use a “Revised” date, highlight changes, and serve it promptly. Bring both the original and revised versions to your hearing so the decision-maker can track what changed and why.

Checklist: Before, During, and After

Before signing: information and documents

• Tenancy agreement, including any addendums.
• Full rent ledger with dates, amounts, and running balance.
• Move-in and move-out condition inspection reports.
• Photos or videos of the unit before and after.
• Invoices, receipts, quotes, and proof of payment for each claim.
• Utility bills with meter readings and service periods.
• Contractor work orders and completion confirmations.
• Communications that link the expense to the tenancy (messages or letters).
• Proof of payments made by the other party (e.g., e-transfers, cheques).
• Deposit records: amounts received, any deductions, and any refunds.
• Notes showing how you prorated partial months or shared utilities.
• Interest calculation notes and the dates used.
• Your application or case number, if you have one.
• Identification details for all parties: full legal names and contact info.
• A calculator and a clean copy of the worksheet for final numbers.

During signing: sections to verify

• Names and addresses match the tenancy agreement and your application.
• Unit number and property address are complete and correct.
• Each claim line has a matching piece of evidence.
• Dates of loss line up with tenancy dates and inspection reports.
• Math is correct on each line and in the totals.
• Deposits and credits are deducted once, not twice.
• Interest, if claimed, includes clear dates and a simple method.
• Taxes and fees on invoices are included or excluded consistently.
• The filing fee recovery is listed if you seek it.
• You signed and dated the worksheet and any schedules or attachments.
• Page numbers and exhibit labels are consistent across all documents.

After signing: filing, notifying, storing

• File the worksheet with your application or submit it by the deadline.
• Serve the other party with the same version and all attachments.
• Keep proof of filing and proof of service (receipts, affidavits, logs).
• Calendar the hearing date and any evidence deadlines.
• Prepare a hearing bundle: worksheet, evidence, and an index.
• Bring a printed copy and a digital copy, if allowed.
• If new receipts arrive, issue a revised worksheet and serve it promptly.
• Store everything together: worksheet, evidence, and correspondence.
• Keep records until the dispute wraps up and any order is enforced.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t forget to deduct deposits and credits exactly once. Double-counting can sink your total. Decision-makers spot this quickly and may reduce your award or question your accuracy.

Don’t rely on estimates when you have receipts. Estimates are weaker than paid invoices. If you present estimates and later produce a lower actual bill, you risk a reduced award. Update your worksheet when you get real numbers.

Don’t claim normal wear and tear as damage. Routine wear is not usually recoverable. Claims that include wear and tear can undermine your credibility and reduce your overall recovery.

Don’t ignore dates. Mismatched dates between your claims, tenancy timeline, and inspections raise doubts. You could face adjournment, partial dismissal, or extra questions that waste hearing time.

Don’t submit messy math. Incorrect totals, missing tax, or rounding errors slow the process. Decision-makers may adjust your figures or reject unclear items. Triple-check the arithmetic and show your work for interest.

Don’t claim your own unpaid labour without a basis. Without an agreement or industry standard, this is often denied. Focus on out-of-pocket costs and contractor invoices to avoid rejection.

Don’t forget to serve the same version you filed. If the other party gets a different set, you invite delay. The decision-maker may exclude late items or adjourn the hearing.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File it with your application. Attach the signed worksheet and all supporting documents. Use clear file names and page numbers so the decision-maker can follow your evidence.

Serve the other party. Send the same package you filed. Include the worksheet, evidence, and any index. Use a method that gives you proof of service. Record the date and time.

Track deadlines and the hearing. Note any cutoff for submitting evidence. If rules require you to exchange materials by a set date, meet that date. Late documents can be refused.

Prepare a clean presentation. Create a simple index that lists each claim line and the matching evidence page. Tab your printed copy. Bookmark your digital file. You want to answer “Where is that proof?” in seconds.

Update if things change. New receipt? Lower actual cost than an estimate? Deposit returned after you filed? Issue a revised worksheet with the date of revision and a short note describing the changes. Serve the other party again.

Handle amendments the right way. If you need to add, remove, or change a claim, follow the rules for amending. Some changes must be made before a deadline. Avoid surprise. Explain why the change is needed and provide proof.

Get ready for questions. Be ready to explain each line item in one sentence. Know the date, amount, and evidence location for every claim. Practice answering: What is it? Why is it owed? Where is the proof?

At the hearing, use the worksheet as your map. Walk through it claim by claim. Point to the matching evidence. Confirm the totals after deposits and credits. Ask for the full monetary order shown on your final worksheet.

After the decision, organize your file. Keep the decision, your final worksheet, and all evidence together. If you received a monetary order, follow the steps to collect. If your claim was reduced, review the reasons and update your records.

If you settle, document it. If you reach an agreement before the hearing, put it in writing. Update or withdraw your claim as needed. Keep a copy of the settlement and any payment proof for your records.