RTB-42L – Landlord Request to Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution

Jurisdiction: Canada | British Columbia

What is an RTB-42L – Landlord Request to Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution?

This form lets you change an application for dispute resolution that you already filed about a residential tenancy in British Columbia. You use it to fix errors, update facts, add or remove claims, or correct party details. It keeps your case aligned with what you actually want the decision-maker to hear and decide.

Think of it as a procedural request. You are not starting over. You are asking permission to adjust the scope or details of your existing case. If approved, your amended application replaces or adds to parts of the original.

Who typically uses this form?

Residential landlords. That includes individual landlords and corporate owners. Property managers and authorized agents use it too, when they act for the landlord. If you are a tenant, you would not use the landlord version of this form.

Why would you need this form? Real life shifts between the day you file and the day of the hearing. You might discover a typo in a tenant’s legal name or a missing unit number. You might need to add a joint tenant you forgot to name. Rent arrears may grow month to month. You might decide to drop a claim to narrow the issues. The form gives you a clean, transparent way to make those changes and notify the tenant.

Typical usage scenarios

• You filed for unpaid rent and possession. After filing, the arrears increased. You use the form to update the amount and attach an updated rent ledger.
• You realized you named the property manager as the landlord, but the legal landlord is the numbered company that owns the unit. You use the form to correct the landlord’s legal name and add the manager as the landlord’s agent.
• You initially asked for an order of possession and a monetary order. The tenant moved out before the hearing. You use the form to withdraw the possession claim and continue with a monetary claim only.
• You forgot to include a joint tenant who signed the lease. You use the form to add that person as a respondent, so any order applies to all tenants.
• You filed to claim repair costs after move-out. A contractor invoice arrives later. You use the form to update the claim amount and include the new invoice.

This form supports fairness. It ensures the other party understands exactly what case they must respond to. It also gives the decision-maker clear notice of what they need to determine at the hearing.

When Would You Use an RTB-42L – Landlord Request to Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution?

Use this form as soon as you realize your original application is incomplete, inaccurate, or out of date. You do not need to wait for the hearing date. Early requests reduce the risk of delay. They also reduce the risk that the amendment is refused for a late notice.

Examples help:

• You mistyped a tenant’s surname or left out a middle initial that appears on the lease. You correct the name so the order can be enforced without confusion.
• You named only one of two joint tenants. You add the missing tenant so the order binds both, and you avoid starting a second case.
• Your original rent ledger covered January through March. The hearing is in June. You update the ledger to the end of May so the order reflects current arrears and credits.
• You filed for utilities, but later found the tenancy agreement shows the tenant was not responsible for gas. You remove that issue to save hearing time and focus on valid claims.
• You included a claim for damages based on photos alone. You later receive a contractor quote and final invoice. You amend to increase or refine the amount and attach both documents.

If the hearing is soon and you cannot meet service timelines for the amendment, you can still submit the request. The arbitrator may allow it, refuse it, or adjourn the hearing to prevent unfairness. The closer you are to the hearing, the higher the chance of an adjournment or refusal.

Who are the typical users? Residential landlords and their authorized agents. If you are a business that rents out residential units, you use it. If you manage property for an owner, you can use it with authority. Tenants do not use this landlord form.

Avoid using the form to bolt on a brand‑new, unrelated dispute. If the amendment were to transform the case into a different dispute, you may need a new application. For example, adding a dispute about a different rental unit should not be done by amendment. Keep amendments tied to the same tenancy and the same core dispute.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-42L – Landlord Request to Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution

The form itself is not a binding order. It is a procedural request. It becomes effective only if the decision‑maker allows it. Once allowed, the amended application defines the issues for the hearing. Any final order made on those issues is binding under the applicable residential tenancy law.

What ensures enforceability? Three elements work together:

• Jurisdiction: The tribunal has legal authority over residential tenancy disputes. Your case must involve a residential tenancy in British Columbia.
• Procedural fairness: The other party gets clear notice of the changes and enough time to prepare. If notice is late or confusing, the arbitrator can refuse the amendment or adjourn to protect fairness.
• Evidence and service rules: You must serve the amended application and your supporting evidence in line with the rules for your hearing. Proper service and proof of service are key. They show the tenant had a fair chance to respond.

The arbitrator has discretion to allow, refuse, or tailor the amendment. They consider whether the amendment relates to the same tenancy and facts. They consider prejudice to the other party. They consider hearing efficiency. If an amendment would cause meaningful unfairness, they may adjourn or refuse it.

An amendment does not revive a time‑barred claim. Limitation periods still apply. If you try to add a claim that is out of time, expect refusal or dismissal. The tribunal also cannot decide matters outside its jurisdiction. For example, it will not decide strata bylaw disputes except as they relate to the tenancy. An amendment cannot expand jurisdiction.

Accuracy in party names matters. A final order is enforced against the named parties. If the legal landlord or tenant name is wrong, enforcement can fail. Use the amendment to align names with government ID, the lease, or corporate records. If you add or remove parties, explain the basis. For example, explain that a listed occupant is not a tenant and should not be a respondent.

Finally, the amendment is not a tactic to delay. Abusive or last‑minute amendments can incur costs or be refused. Keep your request focused, necessary, and timely.

How to Fill Out an RTB-42L – Landlord Request to Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution

Follow these steps. Keep your statements clear. Use short, specific descriptions. Attach documents that support each change.

1) Gather your starting documents

• Your original application and file number.
• Your notice of hearing with date and time.
• The tenancy agreement and any addendums.
• Your rent ledger, payment records, and any notices served.
• Any evidence that supports the proposed change (invoices, photos, correspondence, agent authorization).

2) Identify exactly what you want to amend

Decide whether your change is a correction, an addition, or a withdrawal.

• Corrections: spelling errors, wrong unit number, wrong move‑in date, wrong rent amount.
• Additions: a joint tenant, a new remedy tied to the same facts, updated arrears, and newly available invoices.
• Withdrawals: dropping a claim you no longer seek, such as possession after move‑out or a utilities claim you cannot prove.

Stay within the same tenancy and dispute. If your change introduces a different tenancy or unrelated facts, plan a new application instead.

3) Complete the file and hearing information

• Enter the existing file number exactly as shown on your notice of hearing.
• Enter the scheduled hearing date, time, and format.
• If there is no date yet, indicate that and state you want the request decided before scheduling, if possible.

Accuracy here ensures your request is linked to the correct case.

4) Fill in the applicant (landlord) details

• Use the legal name of the landlord. If the landlord is a company, use the registered corporate name.
• If you are a property manager or agent, state that you act for the landlord. Attach your management agreement or a signed authorization if requested.
• Provide your mailing address, phone, and email. This is how you will receive instructions and any amended notice.

5) List the respondent (tenant) details

• List all tenants named on the lease. Include full legal names and middle initials if known.
• If you are adding a respondent, clearly mark this as an addition and explain why. For example, “Adding Jane A. Tenant as joint tenant per lease dated March 1, 2023.”
• If you are removing someone, explain why they are not a tenant or why they were named in error. For example, “Removing Sam Occupant. Not a tenant. No contractual liability.”

6) Describe each amendment clearly

Create a separate subsection for every change you seek. For each amendment, include four elements:

• What you filed originally: Quote or summarize the original wording or amount.
• What you want it changed to: Provide the new wording or updated amount.
• Why the change is needed: Give a short, factual reason.
• How you will ensure fairness: Confirm service and time for the tenant to respond.

Examples:

• Correcting a name: “Original named respondent: ‘Johnathan Tenant.’ Correct name per BC driver’s licence: ‘Jonathan Tenant.’ Correction ensures enforceability.”
• Adding a joint tenant: “Add ‘Jamie Lee’ as respondent. The lease shows two tenants, Jamie Lee and Alex Lee. Both occupy the unit and are jointly liable.”
• Updating arrears: “Original arrears to March 31: $2,400. Updated arrears to May 31: $4,000. Attached ledger and receipts. Request order for updated total.”
• Withdrawing a remedy: “Withdraw order of possession. Tenant vacated on June 15. Proceed only with monetary claims.”

Write in plain language. Avoid argument here. Save the extended argument for the hearing or a cover letter if needed.

7) Update your monetary claim details (if applicable)

If you change amounts, show your math. Do it line by line.

• Rent arrears: List months, monthly rent, and amounts paid. Subtotal arrears.
• Utilities or damages: List each item, date, and amount. Attach invoices or receipts.
• Security deposit: Show deposit held, interest (if applicable), lawful deductions, and balance.

Make sure your totals match your attachments. If you previously claimed a lower amount, explain that the new total replaces the old one.

8) Attach supporting documents

Attach only what supports the specific change. Typical attachments:

• Rent ledger showing the period added.
• Lease and addendums supporting party names and responsibility for charges.
• Invoices, quotes, photos, and move‑in/move‑out condition reports.
• Agent authorization if you act for a corporate landlord.
• The original application and a markup highlighting the amended sections (helpful, not mandatory).

Label each document. Use simple, descriptive file names or titles. For example, “Exhibit A – Rent Ledger to May 31.”

9) Address service and timing

Set out how and when you will serve the amended materials on every respondent. Use a permitted method. Follow the same service rules that apply to your hearing.

• Confirm you will serve the amended application and all attachments.
• Confirm you will keep proof of service (for example, a delivery receipt or a service declaration).
• Aim to meet the standard evidence timelines for your hearing. If you cannot, explain why and ask for directions or an adjournment if needed.

Practical tip: Do not assume email service is valid unless you have the tenant’s consent or prior agreement on record. If in doubt, use a method that the rules recognize without consent.

10) Sign and date

Sign the form. By signing, you confirm the information is true and complete to the best of your knowledge. Misstatements harm credibility and may lead to refusal of the amendment or costs.

11) Submit the form

File the form through the same channel you used for your original application, or through any accepted filing channel. Include your attachments. Keep your submission confirmation and a full copy for your records.

12) Wait for acknowledgement or directions

You may receive one of the following:

• A confirmation that your amendment is accepted. You may also receive an amended notice of hearing.
• A direction to serve the amendment and file proof of service by a deadline.
• A refusal, with reasons. If refused, prepare to proceed on the original application, or consider a new application if needed.
• No decision before the hearing. If that happens, bring printed copies of your amendment and be prepared to address it at the start of the hearing.

13) Prepare for the hearing

If the amendment is allowed, organize your evidence to match the amended issues. Use a clear table of contents. Bring proof of service. Be ready to explain the change briefly and answer questions about timing and fairness.

If your request is undecided, ask to address the amendment at the outset. Explain why it is necessary and fair. Confirm the tenant received it and had time to respond. If the arbitrator refuses it, pivot to the original issues.

14) Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long. Late requests risk refusal or adjournment.
• Using the form to add an unrelated dispute. File a new application for that.
• Getting party names wrong. Match ID, lease, or corporate records exactly.
• Inflating amounts without proof. Attach ledgers and invoices for every dollar.
• Forgetting to withdraw remedies that no longer apply. Clean up your case to save hearing time.
• Failing to serve the tenant properly. Improper service undermines fairness and your request.
• Changing facts, not fixing them. An amendment is not a way to rewrite history. It updates the application to fit the actual facts and issues.

15) Quick drafting tips

• Use “from/to” phrasing for each change. For example, “Change rent arrears from $2,400 to $4,000.”
• Explain the reason in one or two sentences. Keep it factual.
• Tie every change to a specific exhibit. For example, “See Exhibit B – Lease, page 1, showing joint tenants.”
• If you withdraw an issue, say so clearly. For example, “Withdraw Issue 2 – Order of possession.”

By following these steps, you give the decision‑maker a clear, fair, and well‑supported request. You also give the tenant proper notice, which reduces the risk of delay. Most importantly, you set up your hearing so the final order reflects the real dispute and current facts.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

Amendment means a change to your original application. In this form, you ask to fix, add, or remove details. You might correct names, add issues, or update amounts. The form records the exact change you want.

Application for Dispute Resolution is your original request for a decision. It lists the issues and the orders you want. When you amend, you change what the decision-maker will consider.

Applicant is the person who filed the original application. As a landlord, you are the applicant on this form. You remain the applicant even after an amendment.

Respondent is the person responding to your application. In most cases, that is the tenant. Your amendment must name every respondent you want orders against.

Material fact is a detail that could affect the outcome. If you learn a material fact after filing, you can seek to amend. This form lets you explain why the new fact matters.

Evidence is what supports your claims. It includes documents, logs, photos, and messages. If your amendment adds new issues, you may also add evidence. You must still share it with the other party.

Notice of Hearing tells you the date and time of the hearing. Amending may not change the hearing date. But a late or major change can lead to a new date. Use this form to explain timing and impact.

Service means delivering documents to the other party in an approved way. You must serve your amendment and any attachments. Keep proof of service for your file.

Prejudice means harm to the other party’s ability to respond. Late changes can cause prejudice. If a change would unfairly surprise the tenant, it may be refused.

Adjournment is a delay or rescheduling of the hearing. A significant amendment may trigger an adjournment. Use the form to justify any need for more time.

Dismissal means your application ends without a decision on the issues. Serious filing errors, missing service, or late changes could risk dismissal. Complete and serve the amendment correctly to avoid that outcome.

FAQs

Do you need to file a new application to add a new issue?

Use this form to add or change issues in your existing file. If the new issue is unrelated or very complex, consider a new application. A new filing can avoid delays caused by a major amendment. Weigh timing, fees, and service before you decide.

Do you need the tenant’s consent to amend?

You do not need consent to ask for an amendment. You must still serve the tenant with the amendment and any new evidence. The decision-maker will decide whether to accept the change. Explain why the change is necessary and fair.

Do you pay a fee to amend your application?

A fee may apply in some situations. It depends on your file and how you submit the amendment. Confirm the current fee amount for your case type. Keep your receipt with your file documents.

Do you lose your hearing date if you amend?

Not always. Minor corrections often leave the date unchanged. Major or late changes can lead to a new date. The decision-maker may adjourn if the tenant needs time to respond. File early to reduce the chance of delay.

Do you need to explain why you are amending?

Yes. The form asks for your reasons. State what changed and when you learned it. Explain why the change matters to the issues and orders. A clear reason helps the decision-maker assess fairness.

Do you need to attach evidence to your amendment?

Attach any new evidence that supports the change. Label it clearly and explain how it relates to the amended issue. Serve the tenant with the same materials. Late evidence may be refused, so file promptly.

Do you use this form to correct a name or address?

Yes. Use it to fix typos, update party names, or add missing parties. Provide the correct information and explain the correction. Serve all parties again with the updated details.

Do you need to serve every respondent, including co-tenants?

Yes. Serve every respondent named in your amended application. If you add a new respondent, serve them as well. Keep proof of service for each person served. Missing service can derail your amendment.

Checklist: Before, During, and After

Before signing:

• Have your file number from the original application.
• Have a copy of your original application and notice of hearing.
• Confirm the full legal names of all parties.
• Confirm the rental address and unit details.
• List the exact changes you want to make.
• Write a short reason for each change with dates.
• Gather new evidence that supports the change.
• Number and label your evidence clearly.
• Check if any fee applies to your amendment.
• Plan how you will serve the respondents and prove service.

During signing:

• Verify your contact details and the file number.
• Confirm that the applicant and all respondents are listed correctly.
• State each amendment in plain language.
• Check the boxes or sections that match your change.
• Specify any new orders or amounts you now seek.
• Explain why you need the change and when you learned of it.
• Attach your new evidence list and documents.
• Sign and date the form. Ensure your signature is readable.
• Review the form for gaps, typos, and mismatched dates.
• Make a complete copy for your records before filing.

After signing:

• File the amendment through your usual channel for the case.
• Pay any required fee and keep the receipt.
• Serve every respondent with the amendment and attachments.
• Follow the approved service methods for your file.
• Complete a proof of service for each person served.
• File your proof of service as directed for your case.
• Calendar your hearing date and any new deadlines.
• Watch for confirmation or an updated notice of hearing.
• Update your evidence package to match the amended issues.
• Store a clean, complete set of all filed and served documents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t add a completely new dispute that belongs in a new case. A large, unrelated change can be refused. You risk a delay or an adjournment. You might also pay more in time and cost.

Don’t forget to include your file number on every page. Missing or wrong file numbers cause misfiling. Your amendment may not reach your case. That can lead to refusal or lost time.

Don’t serve only some respondents. If one tenant is not served, the amendment may not apply to them. You could lose orders against that person. Always serve each respondent and keep proof.

Don’t attach new evidence without serving it. The decision-maker can exclude late or unserved evidence. Your key documents may not be considered. Serve the same package on all parties.

Don’t wait until the last minute to amend. Late changes can be refused or delayed. You may face an adjournment or added costs. File as soon as you learn the new facts.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

Submit your amendment to the same file. Use the channel you used for your original application. Include the file number and any required fee. Keep a copy and your payment receipt.

Serve the respondents right away. Send the completed amendment and all attachments. Use an approved service method for your case. Complete a proof of service for each person served. Keep copies of all service documents.

File your proof of service. Do this promptly after service. This shows you shared the amendment and evidence. It helps avoid disputes about notice.

Watch for a response from the tribunal. You may receive a confirmation or an updated notice of hearing. Read it carefully. Note any new deadlines or instructions.

Assess whether you need an adjournment. If your amendment adds complex issues, more time may help. Request a change of date only if needed. Explain why more time is fair to both sides.

Prepare your hearing package around the amended issues. Update your evidence list, page numbers, and index. Highlight changes since the original filing. Prepare a short summary of the amendments and reasons.

Communicate the change in a cover note when you serve. Keep it brief and factual. State what changed and why. This reduces confusion and disputes at the hearing.

Track deadlines that flow from the amendment. Some evidence timelines may shift. Do not assume old dates still apply. Confirm new dates from the latest notice.

Plan for possible outcomes. If the amendment is accepted, proceed with the updated issues. If it is refused, proceed on the original application. If the hearing is adjourned, adjust your preparation schedule.

Store everything in one file. Keep the original application, the amendment, evidence, service proofs, and notices. Bring printed and digital copies to the hearing. Consistent records help you respond to questions fast.

If you discover more changes, act quickly. Consider whether a further amendment is necessary. Avoid serial changes close to the hearing. Consolidate changes and file once, if possible.

Close the loop after the hearing. Keep the decision with your amended application and evidence. Note any orders that reflect the amended issues. Update your internal records and next steps.