The provincial government is making three changes to make it faster and more convenient for landlords and tenants to apply for dispute resolution services.

Previously, landlords and tenants needed to use a credit card or Visa Debit to apply for dispute resolution online. Now, in addition to using a credit card or Visa Debit, anyone can apply online immediately and pay in person at a Service BC Centre or the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) office within three days.

The ability to apply online without a credit card also means that tenants and landlords can have dispute resolution documents emailed to them or can pick them up at the RTB office or Service BC Centre. This is much faster than having to wait to receive the documents by mail.

In addition, when a tenant hasn’t paid rent or utilities, landlords can now apply online for an order of possession through the direct request process. This is a quicker and more convenient option for busy landlords. Previously, these requests could only be made at the RTB office or a Service BC Centre.

As a recognized leader in reducing red tape the B.C. government is committed to improving government service delivery for British Columbians. Reducing red tape for citizens means making improvements to deliver services that are faster, easier to access and simpler to use.

Quick Facts:

Tenants and landlords are encouraged to attempt to discuss disputes or compromise to reach a solution. The RTB website has helpful tips to avoid having to go to dispute resolution at: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/during-a-tenancy/talking-it-over

When landlords and tenants can’t resolve a problem related to their tenancy, they can apply for dispute resolution online at: www.gov.bc.ca/landlordtenant/online

Applications for dispute resolution by direct request can be made online at: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/solving-problems/dispute-resolution/direct-request

Learn More:

For more information, please visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website, at: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies