You can generally choose, and the RTDRS is faster and cheaper. But its monetary jurisdiction is limited, so larger claims must go to the Alberta Court of Justice.

Can my landlord evict me without an order?

No. A landlord needs an order for possession, and enforcement is through a civil enforcement bailiff. Self-help eviction is unlawful.

Does Alberta have rent control?

Alberta does not cap the amount of an increase, but there are rules on frequency and notice. Confirm the current notice requirements.

RTDRS Alberta — Tenancy Disputes Without Going to Court

What it does

Resolves tenancy disputes by hearing officer decision
Orders termination of tenancy and recovery of possession
Awards rent arrears, damages and deposit returns
Issues orders enforceable through the court

Matters it hears

Eviction and termination of tenancy
Rent arrears and damages
Security deposit disputes
Repairs and breaches of the tenancy agreement

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Court of King's Bench of Alberta.

RTDRS orders may be appealed to the Court of King's Bench within a short period.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

RTDRS or court?: You can generally choose, and the RTDRS is faster and cheaper. But its monetary jurisdiction is limited, so larger claims must go to the Alberta Court of Justice.
Can my landlord evict me without an order?: No. A landlord needs an order for possession, and enforcement is through a civil enforcement bailiff. Self-help eviction is unlawful.
Does Alberta have rent control?: Alberta does not cap the amount of an increase, but there are rules on frequency and notice. Confirm the current notice requirements.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.