Tenancy Tribunal Hearings – How They Work and How to Win Your Case
The Tenancy Tribunal is where tenancy disputes are resolved when you and the landlord can’t agree. It isn’t a court, but it has legal powers — including the ability to make enforceable orders, award compensation, and require landlords to follow the law.
This guide explains how hearings work, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to give yourself the strongest chance of success.
What the Tenancy Tribunal Does
The Tribunal can make decisions about:
- Bond disputes
- Rent arrears
- Damage claims
- Illegal entry
- Harassment
- Repairs and maintenance
- Termination of tenancy
- Compensation
- Unlawful acts (e.g., unlawful entry, retaliatory notices)
- Orders for work to be completed
The Tribunal’s job is to apply the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) fairly and based on evidence.
How to Apply for a Hearing
You can apply online through Tenancy Services.
You’ll need:
- Your tenancy address
- The landlord’s details
- A clear description of the issue
- Evidence (photos, emails, inspection reports, receipts, etc.)
- The orders you want the Tribunal to make
Once submitted, you’ll receive:
- A case number
- A hearing date
- Instructions on how to send evidence
What Happens Before the Hearing
1. Mediation (Optional or Required)
Sometimes Tenancy Services will offer mediation first. You can decline mediation if:
- There are safety concerns
- There is a trespass order
- The landlord is abusive
- The issue requires a formal ruling
- You prefer a hearing
You have the right to go straight to the Tribunal.
2. Evidence Exchange
Both sides must send each other:
- Photos
- Videos
- Emails
- Quotes
- Inspection reports
- Witness statements
Evidence must be sent before the hearing.
What to Expect at the Hearing
Hearings are:
- Private
- Less formal than court
- Run by an adjudicator
- Usually 30–60 minutes
- Focused on facts and evidence
The adjudicator will:
- Confirm the issue
- Hear from the applicant
- Hear from the respondent
- Review evidence
- Ask questions
- Make a decision
You can:
- Bring support people
- Bring witnesses
- Bring printed evidence
- Ask for a break if needed
How to Present Your Case
Be clear and structured
Explain:
- What happened
- When it happened
- What evidence you have
- What order you want
Stick to facts
Avoid emotional arguments. Focus on:
- Dates
- Photos
- Emails
- Inspection reports
- Quotes
- RTA sections
Bring everything printed
Adjudicators love:
- Timelines
- Labeled photos
- Numbered evidence bundles
Stay calm
Even if the landlord is aggressive or dishonest, staying calm strengthens your credibility.
What the Adjudicator Considers
The Tribunal looks at:
- The RTA
- Evidence
- Credibility
- Inspection reports
- Communication
- Whether each party acted reasonably
If the landlord has no evidence, they lose. If you have clear documentation, you win.
After the Hearing
You will receive:
- A written order
- Usually within 5 working days
Orders can include:
- Bond refunds
- Compensation
- Work orders
- Penalties for unlawful acts
- Termination of tenancy
Orders are legally enforceable.
If You Disagree With the Decision
You can apply for a rehearing if:
- New evidence becomes available
- There was a significant mistake
- You were unable to attend for reasons outside your control
Rehearing applications must be made within 5 working days of receiving the order.
How to Prepare the Strongest Case
- Create a timeline
- Print all evidence
- Label everything
- Bring copies for the adjudicator and landlord
- Practice explaining your case
- Bring a support person
- Stay calm and factual
Preparation wins hearings.
Email Template: Requesting Evidence Before a Hearing
Copy and Paste This Email
Hi [Landlord/Property Manager],
Ahead of our upcoming Tenancy Tribunal hearing for [address], please provide copies of all evidence you intend to rely on, including:
- Inspection reports
- Photos
- Quotes or invoices
- Emails or messages
- Any other documents
This will ensure both parties can prepare properly for the hearing.
Thank you, [Your Name]
