After the dispute resolution hearing
Last updated on December 7, 2023After the hearing, there are specific steps that need to be taken. Find out what happens when the hearing is over.
On this page
The arbitrator makes the decision
Timelines
The arbitrator makes a decision within 30 days of the hearing. The decision is final and binding.
Both the applicant and the respondent are mailed a written copy of the decision.
If the issue is urgent and involves possession of a rental unit (eviction), the arbitrator may:
- Fax decisions and orders upon request
- Tell the parties when the documents will be available to be picked up at a Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) location or Service BC office
- Decision outcomes
An arbitrator bases their decision on the:
- Facts specific to each case
- Information presented by both the landlord and tenant
- Law and legal precedent
Each hearing and situation is different. This means the arbitrator might not make a decision that is similar to decisions made in the past.
What's in the decision
The decision tells you who is successful in the dispute and what you need to do next.
The decision might:
- Include directions for one of the parties to complete a specific task. For example, repair a leaky faucet
- Contain a separate document which is called an order
Serve an order
After the hearing decision is made, the RTB provides copies of the signed, original orders to the successful party.
If you are the successful party, you then serve the order to the other party. You need to give them a reasonable deadline to comply with the order.
Enforce an order
If the other party does not comply with the order, the successful party can apply to the courts to enforce the order.
The successful party can apply to Small Claims or the Supreme Court to enforce orders.
Review consideration
In specific circumstances, you can apply to have the decision or order reviewed.
- Learn more about applying for review consideration
Next: serve and enforce orders
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