How to Complete the Tenant's Forwarding Address Notice (RTB-47)

Understanding the Tenant's Notice of Forwarding Address for the Return of Security and/or Pet Damage Deposit

If you are a tenant in British Columbia and are ending your tenancy, it is important to understand the purpose and proper completion of the Resident Tenancy Branch Form RTB-47, titled Tenant's Notice of Forwarding Address for the Return of Security and/or Pet Damage Deposit. This form is a key document used to inform your landlord of your new address so they can return your deposits after your tenancy ends.

What is the purpose of this form?

The RTB-47 serves as a formal notification from tenants to landlords, providing a forwarding address for the return of security deposits and pet damage deposits. Under the Residential Tenancy Act, landlords are required to return these deposits within 15 days of the tenancy’s end and upon receipt of the forwarding address. If the landlord fails to do so, tenants may apply for dispute resolution and could be entitled to double the deposit amount.

Who should fill out this form?

This form must be completed by tenants who are ending their tenancy and wish to provide their new address for deposit refunds. It is essential that all tenants listed on the lease fill out their details and sign the form to ensure the landlord receives accurate information. If there are multiple tenants, a Schedule of Parties (Form RTB-26) should be used to list additional tenants.

How to fill out the RTB-47 form

1. Tenant Information

• Full names of all tenants involved in the tenancy.
• The forwarding address, including street address, city, province, postal code, and contact details such as email and phone numbers.
• Signature of each tenant and the date of signing.

2. Rental Property Details

• The address of the rental unit where the deposits were held.

3. Landlord Information

• Complete names and address of the landlord or property management company.
• Contact details for document service, such as email, phone, or fax.

4. Service Details

This section is completed by the landlord or their agent at the time of service, confirming how and when the notice was delivered.

Important considerations when completing the form

• Accuracy is crucial: Ensure all information, especially addresses and contact details, are correct to prevent delays in deposit refunds.
• Signatures are mandatory: The form must be signed by all tenants listed to be valid.
• Use the correct address: Provide a forwarding address where you can reliably receive mail, as the landlord will send the deposit refunds here.
• Timelines: Landlords have 15 days after receiving this form to return deposits or file a dispute if deductions are claimed.

Where and how to submit the form

The RTB-47 can be submitted in several ways:

• In person at the local Residential Tenancy Branch office or Service BC Centre.
• By registered mail to the appropriate branch address.
• By fax, if a fax number is provided.
• By email, using the email address specified on the form, noting that evidence of delivery is recommended.

Common errors to avoid

• Failing to complete all required fields, especially signatures and addresses.
• Providing an incorrect or incomplete forwarding address.
• Submitting the form after the 15-day deadline, which could affect your rights to deposit refunds or dispute deductions.
• Not using Schedule of Parties (#RTB-26) if there are multiple tenants involved.

Legal context and tenant rights

Under the Residential Tenancy Act, deposits are held in trust by the landlord and can only be deducted under specific conditions, such as unpaid rent or damages proven through condition reports. If disputes arise over deductions, tenants can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch. Failure by the landlord to return deposits within the prescribed timeframe may result in the tenant being entitled to double the amount owed.

For further information or assistance, tenants can contact the Residential Tenancy Branch via their website or phone numbers provided on the official forms and resources.