When and what must be served?
BC directs the landlord to serve the Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding package within three days after the package is provided for a direct-request application. Serve the RTB-issued package and copies of the supporting evidence submitted with the application. A direct request is decided initially on documentary evidence, so a complete and provable service record matters. Keep the earlier tenancy agreement, notice to end tenancy and any utility-demand evidence organized with the proceeding documents.
Complete RTB-44 accurately
- Enter the RTB file number and check whether the notice of proceeding and/or supporting documents were served.
- Identify the tenant by their full name and the address where you served the documents; record the date and time of service.
- Check the actual method of service: hand delivery (record recipient), registered mail (include the Canada Post registration receipt and tracking number), email to an address properly given for service (include the sent email and proof of service-address authorization), or another method legally permitted for that application.
- If the form's door-posting option applies to the particular relief sought, identify the place and witness. Do not post the package on a door or other noticeable place if asking for a monetary order; the official RTB-44 explicitly warns against that method for monetary-order requests.
- Print the name of the person who actually served the documents, then sign and date the declaration.
Submit the proof of service after delivery
The form instructs landlords to upload the completed RTB-44 through the Dispute Access site, together with registered-mail receipts if applicable, to continue the direct-request proceeding. The government also describes in-person submission through the RTB office in Burnaby or participating Service BC locations. Keep a complete copy and any witness statements or digital proof of delivery.
What if the evidence is incomplete?
The adjudicator may grant the requested order, refer the case to a participatory hearing, or dismiss the application if required documents, legal notice or service proof are missing. RTB-44 does not itself make a tenancy end or award money; it documents notice of the proceeding. When an order is eventually issued, it must be served separately and can be enforced only through the applicable legal process.
Common mistakes
Confusing service of the original RTB-30 with service of the later RTB proceeding package, omitting supporting evidence, relying on door-posting for a monetary claim, or completing RTB-44 without delivery evidence. Keep legal deemed-receipt rules and the three-day service deadline in mind.