RTDR0008 – Tenant’s Application in Alberta

The “Tenant’s Application in Alberta” form (RTDR0008) is a crucial document for tenants seeking to resolve disputes through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) in Alberta. This detailed form guides tenants through the process of applying for various remedies under the Residential Tenancies Act or the Mobile Home Sites Tenancies Act. It requires tenants to provide personal information, details about their tenancy, the nature of their dispute, and the remedies they are seeking, such as termination of tenancy, rent abatement, damages, compensation for performing the landlord’s obligations, and recovery of the security deposit. The form also outlines steps for organizing evidence, paying the filing fee, serving the application package to the landlord, and completing a Declaration of Service. It emphasizes the importance of attendance at hearings, whether in person or via a representative, and provides instructions for settling disputes before the hearing. Additionally, the form collects information about the filing costs and witnesses, ensuring applicants are aware of their rights and the procedures to follow for a successful dispute resolution process.

Filling out this form is a critical step in resolving disputes through the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Here is a step-by-step guide to help you complete the form accurately:

Before You Start

• Do Not Copy or Staple: Use the original form provided by RTDRS. Print it single-sided if downloaded. Do not staple.
• Correct Information: Ensure you provide accurate and complete information for both tenant(s) and landlord(s), including full names and addresses. Incorrect information could lead to issues enforcing orders.

Section by Section Guide

Tenant(s) / Applicant(s) Information

• Address for Service: Fill in your current address, where you can receive communications.
• Contact Details: Provide your phone number, fax number (if applicable), and email address.

Landlord(s) / Respondent(s) Information

• Address for Service: Enter the landlord’s address and contact details as accurately as possible.

Rental Premises Address

• Location Details: Specify the address of the rental property involved in the dispute.

Application Details

• Type of Application: Indicate whether your application relates to a Residential Tenancy or a Mobile Home Site Tenancy.
• Rental Premises Type & Rent Details: Fill in the type of your rental property, current rent per month, and security deposit amount.
• Tenancy Agreement: Mark whether you have attached the tenancy agreement and provide the start date of the tenancy.

Claims

• Termination, Abatement, Damages, Compensation, Security Deposit: Detail your claims in the respective sections. For each claim, provide a brief explanation, the amount claimed, and attach any supporting evidence. Remember to number pages of any item that is more than one page.

Evidence and Witnesses

• Organize Your Evidence: Ensure all evidence is on standard-sized paper, single-sided, and not in binders or sleeves. Photos should be taped onto paper if not standard size. You may also include digital evidence on a USB or CD.
• Witnesses: Indicate if you will call witnesses and list their names.

Filing Fee

• Fee Details: The filing fee is $75.00, payable at the time of filing. If you are a low-income Albertan, the fee may be waived.

Service and Declaration

• Serving the Application Package: Make copies of the application package for each landlord and serve it at least 3 clear business days before the hearing.
• Declaration of Service: Complete and submit the Declaration of Service form, available on the RTDRS website, to confirm how and when you served the application package.

Additional Information

• Adding a Representative: If you’re represented, include their name, and contact information.
• Attendance: Be on time for your hearing, whether in person or through a representative.

Final Steps

• Review and Sign: Ensure all information is correct. Print your name, sign the form, and include the filing date and method of payment.
• Submit the Form: Bring the completed form, along with your evidence and filing fee, to the RTDR office.