RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim2025-08-28T15:43:56+00:00

RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim

Other Names: Amendment of Application for Dispute ResolutionApplication Amendment Form (RTB)Change of Address / Party / Claim FormRental Dispute Application Update FormTenant/Landlord Dispute Amendment Form

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

What is a RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim?

This form lets you change a filed Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) application. You use it after you have an Application for Dispute Resolution on file, and you need to correct or narrow it. The form is designed for three specific changes. You can update your address for service. You can add or remove an applicant. You can remove a claim from the application. You cannot use this form to add new claims. You also cannot use it to add or remove a respondent.

Landlords and tenants use this form. Property managers and authorized agents also use it on behalf of a party. If your case already has a hearing scheduled, the amendment connects to that same file.

You might need this form if your contact details change. RTB serves documents and decisions to the address on file. If you move or change your email, you must update it. This ensures you receive notices and evidence on time.

You might need this form if you filed alone but should have filed with a co-tenant or co-landlord. Many tenancy rights and obligations are joint. If a co-tenant needs to be part of the application, you add them. If a named applicant is no longer involved, you remove them. This avoids confusion at the hearing about who is seeking the order.

You might need this form if you want to narrow the case. Maybe you included too many issues in one application. You can remove a claim that no longer matters. This could be a damage claim you have settled. It could be a monetary claim you prefer to pursue later or not at all.

Typical usage scenarios

A tenant moves during a dispute and needs decisions sent to a new mailing address. A landlord realizes the application named only the property manager when the rightful applicant is the owner. A tenant initially claimed for repairs, compensation, and return of a deposit, but later chose to proceed only for the deposit. A co-tenant who never signed the tenancy agreement was mistakenly listed and needs to come off the file. A corporate landlord replaces a staff member as the named applicant and confirms the agent’s authority.

The RTB-42O is a procedural tool. It does not decide the dispute. It changes what will be decided and who is asking for that decision. Think of it as editing your application so the hearing focuses on the right parties and issues.

When Would You Use a RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim?

You use it when your original application is on file and something important has changed. You also use it when you discover an error that affects notice, party names, or the scope of claims.

As a tenant, you use it to update your address after moving out. You use it to add a co-tenant whose name appears on the tenancy agreement and who wants to join the application. You use it to remove a claim for compensation if the landlord has already paid or fixed the issue. You use it to correct your legal name so the order matches your ID.

As a landlord, you use it to add the owner as a co-applicant when the property manager filed first. You use it to remove a junior employee as the named applicant and replace them with the authorized representative. You use it to remove a damage claim if you decide to handle it directly from the security deposit. You use it to update the address for service after a management change.

You might also use it when the original applicant is no longer available. A landlord sells the property and the new owner takes over the application. A tenant relocates out of province and appoints an agent to appear. In those cases, you add the correct applicant or agent and remove the person who will not continue.

You would not use it to expand your case. You cannot add new claims through this form. If you want to add a rent increase dispute to a deposit claim, this form will not do that. You would file a new application instead. You also would not use it to add a respondent, such as a new landlord or a co-tenant on the other side. That change involves different steps and may require direction at the hearing.

Timing matters. If your hearing is soon, an amendment can cause delay. The arbitrator may adjourn to protect fairness if you add an applicant late. Serve amendments as early as possible. This gives everyone time to prepare and avoids surprises at the hearing.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim

This form is part of the RTB’s procedural framework. It is not an order by itself. It is legally significant because it alters the content and parties to your filed application. The amended application becomes the version the arbitrator will consider at the hearing. Once accepted and served, it frames the issues and the parties’ standing in the dispute.

The form is binding in a practical sense. When you remove a claim, you withdraw it from this application. The arbitrator will not decide it. You cannot revive a removed claim at the hearing. If you later want that claim decided, you must file a new application. Be careful with limitation periods and evidence if you plan to refile. When you add or remove an applicant, you change who can seek and receive orders. Only named applicants can be granted relief.

Enforceability flows from fair notice and the RTB’s rules. You must include the file number, the parties’ full legal names, and current service addresses. You must serve the amendment on all other parties by an allowed method. You should keep written proof of service. If you do not serve properly, the arbitrator can refuse the amendment or adjourn the hearing. In extreme cases, the arbitrator could dismiss the application for lack of notice.

Arbitrators have discretion to manage amendments. They may accept, limit, or refuse changes that prejudice the other side. Late changes that add a new applicant may require adjournment so the respondent can prepare. Changes that only remove claims or update addresses usually proceed without delay. The key test is fairness. Will the other party have a fair chance to respond to the amended application?

Accuracy matters. The RTB issues orders using the names and addresses you provide. If a name is wrong, the collection can be harder. If an address for service is wrong, you may miss notices. The decision could be made without your input. Always use the legal names from the tenancy agreement and government ID.

Representation carries its own requirements. If you sign as an agent, you should have written authorization. If you add a corporate applicant, include proof of authority to act. If there are multiple applicants, confirm consent in writing. The arbitrator may ask for that consent at the hearing.

Privacy and relevance also apply. Only include personal information needed to identify parties and support the amendment. Do not attach unrelated material. Keep your statements clear, factual, and focused on the change you seek.

How to Fill Out a RTB-42O – Amend an Application for Dispute Resolution: Change Address, Add/Remove an Applicant, Remove a Claim

Follow these steps from start to finish. Have your original application and Notice of Dispute Resolution Hearing handy.

1) Identify the correct file

  • Enter the RTB file number exactly as shown on your notice.
  • Confirm the hearing date and time. Note how close it is. This guides your service plan.

2) Confirm your role and party type

  • Indicate whether you are the landlord or the tenant applicant.
  • If you are an agent, state your role and the name of the party you represent.
  • Use the legal name that matches the tenancy agreement and ID.

3) Choose the amendment type

  • Select one or more of the allowed changes:
  • Change your address for service.
  • Add an applicant.
  • Remove an applicant.
  • Remove a claim from the application.
  • Do not select anything that adds a new claim. This form cannot do that.

4) Change of address for service

  • Provide your new mailing address and any new email or phone number.
  • Confirm that this is your address for service for this file.
  • If you want an agent to receive documents, list the agent’s service address.
  • Double-check spelling and postal code. RTB uses this address for decisions and notices.

5) Add an applicant

  • Enter the full legal name of the person or company you are adding.
  • State their relationship to the tenancy (for example, co-tenant, landlord, owner).
  • Explain briefly why they should be added. Keep it factual and concise.
  • Attach supporting proof if available:
  • A copy of the tenancy agreement showing both tenants.
  • A title search or management agreement for landlords.
  • A written authorization if you act as an agent.
  • If there are existing applicants, include their signed consent or a clear statement of authority to add the new applicant.

6) Remove an applicant

  • Identify the applicant to remove by full legal name.
  • Explain why removal is needed (for example, no longer a party, filed by mistake).
  • Confirm the remaining applicant(s) will continue.
  • If you are removing yourself, confirm who will take the lead.
  • Include a brief statement from the removed applicant if you have it. This is not mandatory, but it helps avoid delay.

7) Remove a claim

  • List the exact claim you want removed. Use the same wording or item number from your original application if possible.
  • State a clear reason. For example, the issue is resolved, or you no longer seek that remedy.
  • Confirm you understand the claim will not be decided in this application.
  • Do not try to modify a claim through this section. If you want to change the remedy amount, explain that and consider whether removal and refilling is better.

8) Attach supporting documents

  • Include only documents that support the amendment.
  • For address changes, attach proof if relevant (for example, a driver’s license update or a utility bill). This is optional, but it can prevent disputes about service.
  • To add a corporate applicant, attach proof of authority. A letter of authorization or corporate resolution is helpful.
  • For removing an applicant, attach a signed statement, if available, confirming consent to the change.

9) Review the record of parties

  • Check that the list of applicants now reflects the change.
  • Ensure respondent names remain unchanged. This form does not add or remove respondents.
  • Verify all service addresses for applicants and respondents.

10) Sign and date

  • Read the declaration. You confirm the information is true and complete.
  • Sign and date the form. If submitting online, complete the e-signature step.
  • If there are multiple applicants, have each sign or attach written consent authorizing one person to sign on behalf of all.

11) Submit the form

  • File the amendment using the same channel as your original application if possible.
  • Keep a copy of the submitted form and all attachments. Save the confirmation of submission.

12) Serve the amendment

  • Serve the amended application and any updated notice on every other party.
  • Use an allowed method of service. Personal service, registered mail, or another approved method is typical.
  • Serve as soon as possible. Late service can lead to adjournment.
  • Keep proof of service. Keep receipts, tracking, or a declaration of service.

13) Prepare for the hearing

  • Update your evidence list to reflect the amendment.
  • Remove evidence that relates only to removed claims.
  • Add any new evidence that supports the added applicant’s standing or the address change.
  • Be ready to explain the amendment at the outset of the hearing. Have your proof of service ready.

Practical tips for common situations:

  • Correcting your name: If your name is misspelled, correct it in the party details. Attach ID that shows the correct spelling. This helps with enforcement later.
  • Adding a co-tenant: Include the tenancy agreement that lists both tenants. Include a short statement from the co-tenant confirming they joined as an applicant. This shows consent and avoids delay.
  • Property manager vs. owner: If the property manager filed, add the owner as an applicant if they want the order in their name. Attach the management agreement or a letter of authority. If you then remove the manager as an applicant, keep them as a witness or agent as needed.
  • Removing a resolved claim: State that the issue has been settled and the claim is withdrawn. Do not include settlement terms unless needed to show the claim is resolved. This keeps the record clean.
  • Hearing soon: If the hearing is within days, still file and serve the amendment. At the hearing, be ready to ask the arbitrator to accept it. Explain why the change is necessary and how you ensured fairness. Bring your proof of service.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Mixing up applicants and respondents. This form only changes applicants. If you try to change the respondent list, the RTB may reject or ignore that part.
  • Trying to add a new claim. The RTB will not allow it through this form. File a new application for new issues.
  • Vague reasons. Use clear and factual reasons for each change. This helps the arbitrator accept the amendment quickly.
  • Missing proof of service. Always serve the other parties and keep proof. Without proof, the arbitrator may refuse to deal with the amendment.
  • Incomplete names. Use full legal names. For companies, include the full corporate name, including “Inc.” or “Ltd.” as registered.

Final check before you submit:

  • File number is correct.
  • The applicant list is accurate and complete.
  • Claims to be removed are clearly identified.
  • Addresses for service are current and consistent.
  • All necessary consents and authorizations are attached.
  • You have a plan to serve and track delivery.

By following these steps, you align your application with the real parties and issues. You reduce the risk of delay at the hearing. You also protect the enforceability of any order the RTB makes in your case.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

Applicant: This is the person or entity who started the dispute. On this form, you can add or remove an applicant if the parties to the application have changed or if one no longer wishes to proceed.

Co-applicant: This is an additional applicant listed on the original application. Use this form to add a co‑applicant who should be part of the case, or remove one who should not.

Respondent: This is the person or entity responding to the application. You do not use this form to add or remove a respondent. If the respondent’s details were wrong, you note that in the change of contact information section or seek direction through the main process.

File number: This is your unique case identifier. You must include the same file number on the amendment form so it links to the existing case. Without it, your update may not be processed.

Service address: This is where the other side and the tribunal can reach you for the case. The form lets you update your mailing address, email, or phone number so you receive notices and decisions.

Service: This means giving the other party the documents in a way the rules allow. After you file this amendment, you usually must serve the amended documents and keep proof you did so.

Claim: A claim is the issue you asked the decision-maker to resolve. You can use this form to remove a claim you no longer want decided. You cannot add new claims with this form.

Withdrawal: Removal of a claim from the existing application is a withdrawal for that issue. Once removed, the claim is normally not decided in this case.

Authorized agent or representative: This is someone you appoint to act for you. If an agent signs, they should attach proof of authority, such as written consent from each applicant.

Hearing: This is the scheduled proceeding where a decision-maker hears the case. If you change parties or remove claims, the hearing may still proceed on the remaining issues.

FAQs

Do you use this form to add new claims to your case?

No. You can only remove claims with this form. You cannot add new claims here. To bring new issues, you generally need a new application or direction from the decision-maker.

Do you need consent from all applicants to remove one?

Yes. If more than one applicant remains, all should agree to the change. Have the departing applicant confirm in writing, or have your agent show authority to make the change on everyone’s behalf.

Do you have to serve the amended application on the other party?

Yes, in most cases. After filing, serve the amended application and any updated notice on the other party using an approved method. Keep proof of service in case the decision‑maker asks for it.

Can you use this form to correct a typo in a name or address?

Yes. Use the change of contact section to fix spelling errors or update contact details. If the error affects the identity of a party, add a short note explaining the correction.

Is there a deadline to submit this amendment before the hearing?

Submit as early as you can. Late changes may not be processed before the hearing. If you must amend close to the hearing, be ready to explain why and how the other side was notified.

Can you undo a claim removal if you change your mind?

Usually not within the same case. Removing a claim tells the decision‑maker not to decide it. If you still want that claim decided, you may need to start a new application.

Will removing a claim reduce any fee you paid?

Do not expect a fee refund or reduction. Fee rules rarely change after filing. Check current fee guidance before you file, and remove only claims you are sure you want to drop.

Can you change who the respondent is with this form?

No. This form is not for adding or removing respondents. If the original respondent was named incorrectly, explain the issue in writing and seek direction through the main process.

Checklist: Before, During, and After

Before signing

  • Your file number. Locate it on your original application or notice.
  • Current contact information for each applicant. Gather full legal names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, and emails.
  • Written consent to add or remove an applicant. Get a dated letter or email from the person leaving or joining.
  • Proof of authority if you are an agent. Have a signed authorization from each applicant you represent.
  • A clear list of claims to remove. Identify each claim by type or description as it appears in your application.
  • Hearing details. Confirm the scheduled date and time so you can file the amendment promptly.
  • Service plan. Decide how you will serve the amended documents and what proof you will keep.
  • Identification if required for in‑person filing. Bring ID that matches the applicant’s name.

During signing

  • Verify the file number. It must match the case you want to amend.
  • Confirm each applicant’s name is spelled correctly. Use full legal names.
  • Double‑check the updated contact information. Confirm mailing address, email, and phone numbers.
  • Review the add/remove applicant section. Ensure you check the correct option and include reasons if asked.
  • Review the remove claim section. Confirm you listed each claim you want to withdraw.
  • Confirm your authority to sign. If you are an agent, attach the authorization.
  • Read the declaration. Make sure all information is true and complete to the best of your knowledge.
  • Sign and date in all required places. If more than one applicant remains, ensure each required signature is present.

After signing

  • Make a complete copy of the signed form and any attachments. Keep a clean set for your records.
  • File the amendment using the allowed submission method. Note the date and time you filed.
  • Serve the other party. Deliver the amended application and any updated notices using an approved method.
  • Keep proof of service. Save receipts, courier tracking, or a service declaration.
  • Watch for confirmation. Look for an updated notice, acceptance email, or entry on your case record.
  • Update your calendar. Note any hearing changes or new deadlines.
  • Bring everything to the hearing. Pack the filed amendment, proof of service, and any authorizations.
  • Store records securely. Keep copies until the case and any review periods end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t forget to include the file number. Missing or wrong file numbers delay processing. Your amendment may not reach the correct case.

Don’t assume you can add new claims here. This form does not add claims. Trying to add claims may be ignored and could waste time before the hearing.

Don’t remove a claim you still need. Once withdrawn, that claim is usually out of the case. You may have to start a new application to have it decided.

Don’t change a party without proper consent. Removing or adding an applicant without written consent or proof of authority can lead to rejection or challenges at the hearing.

Don’t skip serving the other party. If you do not serve the amendment properly, the decision‑maker may refuse to accept the change or may adjourn the hearing.

Don’t leave contact details outdated. If your service address is wrong, you might miss notices or the hearing. Late attendance can lead to dismissal.

Don’t file too close to the hearing. Late amendments may not be reviewed in time. You may need to explain the late change and the risk of delay.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

  • File the amendment. Submit the completed form and attachments through the allowed filing method for your case. Keep proof of submission, such as a timestamped copy or receipt.
  • Serve the other party. Deliver a copy of the filed amendment to the other party using an approved service method. Do this as soon as possible after filing.
  • Update your evidence list. If you removed claims, adjust your evidence so you present only what remains relevant.
  • Monitor your case. Watch for confirmation that the amendment has been accepted and recorded. You may receive an updated notice or case record.
  • Prepare for the hearing. Bring the amended application, proof of service, and any consents or agent authorizations. Be ready to confirm the changes at the start of the hearing.
  • Consider timing. If your amendment was late, prepare a brief explanation of the delay and how you served the other side.
  • If circumstances change again, file another amendment only if necessary. Keep all parties and the decision‑maker updated to avoid confusion.
  • Keep records. Store copies of the amendment, proof of service, and confirmations until the decision is final and any review periods have passed.