RTB-36 – Request Alternate Hearing Format in British Columbia

This form, RTB-36, is designed for individuals in British Columbia seeking an alternative hearing format for dispute resolution within the Residential Tenancy Branch. It caters to those facing unique circumstances such as physical, mental, and geographic barriers, or requiring specific accommodations due to a history of abusive interactions or legal representation needs. Applicants must provide sufficient evidence to support their request for in-person, written, or other types of hearings. This form underscores the importance of early submission, detailed information provision, and adherence to guidelines for a successful request. The form highlights the procedural steps, including the submission process and deadlines, ensuring applicants are well-informed of their responsibilities and the criteria for granting alternate hearing formats.

Filling out the RTB-36 form for requesting an RBT hearing in British Columbia involves several critical steps to ensure your request is properly processed. Below is a detailed guide to help you complete the form accurately:

Step 1: Accessing the Form

You can fill out the form either digitally or manually. If accessing it from the B.C. Government website, it’s possible to type directly into the form fields on your computer. For manual completion, print the form and use dark ink, ensuring your handwriting is clear and legible.

Step 2: Completing Applicant Information

• Applicant Information: Fill in your first, middle, and last names, indicating whether you are the tenant or the landlord.
• Applicant Address: Provide your complete address, including site/unit number, street name and number, city, province, and postal code. This address will be used for serving documents.
• Dispute Address: List the address where the dispute has arisen, following the same format as the applicant address.
• Hearing Details: Enter the date and time of your scheduled hearing as noted in your Notice of Dispute Resolution package.

Step 3: Request for Alternate Hearing Format

• Reason for Request: Check the appropriate boxes that describe the grounds for your request, such as a history of abusive interactions, physical or mental disability, or geographic/language barriers. You can select more than one reason.
• Type of Alternate Hearing: Indicate whether you prefer an in-person hearing, a written hearing, or specify another type of hearing. Provide detailed reasons for your request and any specific accommodations needed.

Step 4: Submitting Evidence

Attach sufficient evidence to support your claim for an alternate hearing format. This could include medical documents, statements explaining geographic or language barriers, or any other relevant documentation.

Step 5: Reviewing Personal Information Collection Notice

Understand that your personal information is collected under specific laws for the purpose of administering the Residential Tenancy Act. If you have questions about this, contact numbers are provided.

Step 6: Understanding Terms and Submitting the Form

• Note the importance of submitting all supporting evidence with your request and that the other party will have an opportunity to respond.
• Be aware of the submission deadline: as soon as possible and no less than 30 days before the hearing date. For expedited hearings, within 3 days of receiving the Notice of Dispute Resolution package.
• Sign and date the form, printing your name clearly. If you are acting as an agent for the applicant, ensure their details are correctly entered.

Step 7: Contact Information and Submission

• Review the Residential Tenancy Branch contact information for email, website, phone, and in-person addresses.
• Submit the completed form via email to HSRTO@gov.bc.ca or in person at the specified locations. Do not upload it to your dispute file online as it will not be considered.

By following these steps, you can accurately complete the RTB-36 form and submit a request for an alternate hearing format tailored to your specific needs. Remember, providing detailed and accurate information along with sufficient evidence is crucial for the approval of your request.

How long does it take to get a hearing at the landlord tenant board in BC?

The current waiting period for a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board in British Columbia can extend to at least five months from the time an application is filed.

Expedited Hearing RTB

In British Columbia, expedited hearings RTB are limited to urgent dispute resolutions, including situations such as an early end to a tenancy for very serious breaches by the tenant, an order of possession for a tenant in cases of illegal lockout, and emergency repairs for safety and security. However, it is worth noting that mould does not qualify for expedited hearings related to repairs.