RTDRS Evidence Submission Rules: Forms, Formats and Deadlines

Why Evidence Formatting Matters at the RTDRS

The RTDRS processes thousands of applications a year, and every document you submit goes through an automated scanner. Submit evidence in the wrong format and it won't scan properly — which means the Tenancy Dispute Officer may not see it at your hearing.

Getting the formatting right is straightforward once you know the rules. Getting it wrong can mean a wasted filing fee ($75 for claims up to $7,500; $150 for claims over $7,500) and a dismissed application.

Document Formatting Requirements

Every page of evidence you submit must follow these specifications:

• Paper size: Standard 8.5 × 11 inches or 8.5 × 14 inches (legal)
• Printing: Single-sided only
• Binding: No punched holes, no staples, no paper clips, no page sleeves, no binders
• Orientation: Pages must feed through an automatic document scanner without obstruction

This means you can't submit a stapled lease agreement as-is. Remove staples, ensure every page is single-sided, and number your pages sequentially with a table of contents (Form RTDR12006) at the front.

What Evidence to Include

For a termination application, your evidence package typically needs:

1. The signed tenancy agreement — proves the tenancy type, start date, rent amount, and terms
2. Your termination notice — the actual notice you served, with the date, grounds, and statutory references
3. Rent ledger — a chronological record of rent charged, received, and outstanding, particularly for non-payment claims
4. Photographs — time-stamped images of property damage, posted notices, or unit condition (include both move-in and move-out inspection photos)
5. Written correspondence — emails, text messages, or letters between you and the tenant about the breach or termination
6. Move-in and move-out inspection reports — required under Section 19 of the RTA; without them, you cannot claim deposit deductions for damage

The Proof of Service Form

After you serve the tenant with the RTDRS hearing package, you must file a sworn Declaration of Service (Form RTDR0002) with the portal before or on the hearing day. This form confirms:

• The exact date and time of service
• The method used (personal delivery, registered mail, posting, or electronic)
• Who received the documents (for substituted service, the name and confirmed adult status of the person)

If you can't locate the tenant to serve them after several reasonable attempts, you'll need Form RTDR0005 (Declaration in Support of Substitutional Service) to request permission from the RTDRS to use an alternative service method.

Filing Fee and Waiver

The filing fee is $75 for claims up to $7,500 and $150 for claims over $7,500, paid when you apply. The fee is not refunded if you withdraw your application.

If paying the fee would cause financial difficulty, request a waiver using Form RTDR12093 (RTDRS Fee Waiver Form). The application requires 3 months' proof of income.

Hearing Timeline

Hearings are typically scheduled within 2 to 4 weeks of filing. They're conducted by telephone conference or online video. Serve the tenant with your full Application Package at least 3 clear days before the hearing; the service date, hearing date, weekends, and holidays do not count. If you submit additional evidence after filing the application, serve it on the RTDRS and the other party at least 24 hours before the hearing.

On the day, a Tenancy Dispute Officer hears both sides and issues a binding order. If the tenant doesn't appear, the hearing may proceed in their absence and an order may be issued.

For the complete workflow — from drafting the notice through filing at the RTDRS to enforcing a possession order — get the Alberta ending a tenancy guide.

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