Disputes
There are many types of disputes that can happen during a tenancy. Learn how the RTB can help landlords, tenants and third parties to resolve tenancy disputes.
Common disputes
The most common disputes brought to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) are validity of a notice of termination, unlawful termination of a tenancy, rent arrears, deposit retention and rent arrears with overholding.
Other disputes we deal with include:
- anti-social behaviour
- breach of fixed term lease
- breach of landlord or tenant obligations
- damage in excess of normal tear and wear
- rent more than market rate
- validity of notice of rent setting
- validity of notice of rent review
- giving a false or misleading reason to end the tenancy
- standard and maintenance of property
Watch our video explainer for organisations on how to use the RTB Dispute Resolution Centre.
Watch our video explainer for individuals on how to use the RTB Dispute Resolution Centre.
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Disputes process
Tenants and landlords have 4 options to resolve their tenancy disputes. Start with self-resolution as the first step in your dispute resolution process. By working together, you can reach a fair agreement.
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Guide to mediation
Mediation is a free service to help landlords and tenants resolve tenancy issues. A mediator helps both parties work together to get a resolution everyone agrees with. Find out how mediation works and how to apply.
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Guide to adjudication
Adjudication is a dispute resolution service provided by the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). An independent adjudicator reviews the evidence at a hearing and makes a legally binding decision.
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Guide to tribunals
If you are involved in a mediation or an adjudication hearing and feel the decision is wrong or does not comply with the law, you can appeal to a tribunal. It is a full re-hearing of the facts of your tenancy dispute. You can present any extra evidence relevant to your case.
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Neighbour disputes
A third party is someone other than a tenant, landlord or agent and is not directly connected to the tenancy. For example, a neighbour affected by a tenant's behaviour.
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Guide to evidence
If you are involved in a dispute with a tenant or landlord you may need to gather relevant evidence. Find out about the different types of evidence and when it is needed.
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Dispute outcomes and orders
Search for previous outcomes and Determination Orders for Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) adjudications and tribunals.
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Enforcement of Determination Orders
Enforcement is a key function of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). When landlords, tenants, or third parties use the RTB's dispute resolution services, the final outcome is legally binding. This outcome is called a Determination Order.