The three-day deadline
Once the RTB makes the Notice of Dispute Resolution Proceeding package available to the tenant, the tenant must generally serve the landlord within three days, unless the RTB grants an extension. Serve both the notice package and copies of every supporting document provided with the direct-request application. The three days concern serving the package, not simply completing this proof sheet. Do not assume the deadline starts when you happen to open an email days later; use the instructions on your actual proceeding package.
Which methods are permitted?
For a tenant's direct request proceeding package, the Province identifies these standard methods:
- Personal delivery to the landlord or a legally recognized agent of the landlord.
- Registered mail to the address where the landlord resides or carries on business as a landlord.
- Email to an email address the landlord has specifically given or agreed to use for legal service, such as in RTB-51 or a valid written communication/service agreement.
If none of those methods can reasonably be used, apply to the RTB for a substituted-service order (RTB-13) and follow the permitted method exactly. Do not treat ordinary mail, leaving papers under a door, or posting them on a door as automatically valid for this particular proceeding package.
Record and submit RTB-50
- Identify the RTB file number, the landlord who received the proceeding package and their correct service address.
- Record the date, place, actual method of delivery, and any witness, recipient or delivery detail requested on the form; the person who served the papers must complete the confirmation accurately.
- Keep a registered-mail receipt and tracking report if mailed, a witness or signed receipt for personal service, or the sent email with attachments and proof of consent for email service.
- Submit the completed RTB-50 and supporting proof using the online Dispute Access site or at the RTB office or a participating Service BC office. Service and filing the proof are two separate steps.
What happens next?
Once service is proven and the required notice period has elapsed, an RTB adjudicator may issue a monetary order, send the case to a participatory hearing or dismiss the direct request. If the landlord cannot be served through ordinary authorized methods, seek procedural advice promptly rather than filing an inaccurate service declaration.
Common mistakes
Serving only RTB-50 rather than the proceeding package and evidence, missing the three-day window, mistaking earlier forwarding-address service for service of the proceeding, or failing to submit the completed RTB-50 after delivering the package. Do not claim that an informal email exchange by itself proves consent to legal email service.