While most dispute resolution hearings are held over the phone, the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) does have the authority to hold hearings in person, in writing, or by electronic means, such as video conference. The RTB only grants alternate hearings in limited circumstances.
To request an alternate hearing, applicants can submit RTB Form, Request Alternate Hearing Format, and supporting documentation to the RTB or any Service BC office within three days of the Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding being made available to them. Similarly, respondents can submit the same form and supporting documentation to the RTB within three days of receiving, or being considered to have received, the Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding from the applicant.
Resources
- TRAC Webpage – Applying for Dispute Resolution
- RTB Rules of Procedure Section 6.4 – A party may request that the hearing be held in a specific format
- RTB Policy Guideline 44 – Format of Hearings
- RTB Form – Request Alternate Hearing Format
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