BC’s Residential Tenancy Branch now allowed to make audio recordings of dispute-resolution hearings

British Columbia's Ministry of Attorney General has announced that the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) is now allowed to make audio recordings of all dispute-resolution hearings to promote transparency and fairness for both landlords and renters.

The ministry said that having an audio record of a dispute-resolution hearing will give parties more confidence in the process and promote good conduct. The ministry added that the RTB was previously barred from recording any dispute resolution hearing, making it difficult for parties to challenge a decision.

“This change will ensure all parties involved in dispute resolution can feel confident in the outcome,” the ministry said. “Any hearing participant seeking a copy of their recording can contact the RTB and it will be provided free of charge.”

According to the Rental Housing Task Force chair Spencer Chandra Herbert, recording dispute-resolution hearings fulfills one of the recommendations set out by the task force in its 2018 report entitled “Rental Housing Review: Recommendations and Findings.” The report contained 23 recommendations to ensure BC’s tenancy laws and processes reflect fair process and safe and affordable housing for renters and rental housing providers.

“This change will help bring more fairness, transparency and justice for everyone involved in a tenancy dispute,” Herbert said. “Renters and rental housing providers all agreed this change was important to improve accountability and confidence that justice has been served.”