A “default decision” is a final decision made by the CRT if a respondent doesn’t reply to the claim. This is in the CRT Rules.
- If you made a claim against someone and they don’t respond by the deadline, you can ask the CRT for a default decision. For most types of claims, there’s a fee to apply for a default decision.
- If someone made a claim against you and you don’t respond, you could have a default decision made against you.
- The deadline to respond to a claim is generally 14 calendar days from the date the Dispute Notice was served (30 days if they received it outside BC). If we give them a time extension and they don’t respond by the extended deadline, they may be considered “in default”.
How do I ask for a default decision?
- After the response deadline passes, the CRT will contact you to ask if you want a default decision.
- Fill out and submit a Request a Default Decision form. We’ll send you this form.
- Pay any required default request fee. Follow the payment instructions in the form.
What happens after the CRT makes a default decision?
The decision will be sent to all participants in the claim, by email or mail.
A default decision can be enforced like a court order. The CRT can’t enforce orders. It’s up to you to file the order with a court for enforcement.
Learn how to enforce a CRT decision.
What if I don’t agree with a default decision?
You can ask the CRT to cancel a default decision. There’s a fee for this. You must explain why you think the CRT should cancel the decision. The other steps depend on if you made the claim, or if the claim was made against you. Learn more about asking to cancel a default decision.
You might also be able to ask the BC Supreme Court for judicial review of the decision. This can be complicated. You may want to get legal advice. The CRT can’t give legal advice or help you file for a judicial review.