Landlord and Tenant Law in Ontario

No. In Ontario, a landlord generally cannot remove a tenant, change the locks, or physically force a move-out without a valid order from the Landlord and Tenant Board that has been enforced by the Sheriff's office. Self-help evictions, including lockouts or shutting off utilities, are not permitted under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Timelines vary widely depending on the notice type, whether the matter is contested, and current LTB scheduling. A typical path involves a notice period, an LTB application, a hearing or mediation date, a written order, and — if needed — Sheriff enforcement. There is no fixed universal timeline, and cases can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

If the tenant pays the full amount owing before the termination date on the notice, the N4 is generally void. If rent remains unpaid after that date, the landlord may file an L1 application with the LTB to seek an order for repayment and, potentially, termination of the tenancy.

Generally, yes, but only with proper written notice (usually at least 24 hours) stating the reason and a time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., and only for a purpose permitted under the Act. Exceptions include emergencies or when the tenant agrees to entry at the time.

Yes, generally once every 12 months with at least 90 days' written notice, and typically within the annual provincial guideline unless the landlord applies to the LTB for an above-guideline increase or an exemption applies (for example, some newer buildings).

An N12 is used when a landlord, a purchaser, or an eligible family member intends to move into the rental unit. It requires 60 days' notice tied to the end of a rental period and, in most cases, compensation equal to one month's rent (or an offer of another acceptable unit).

Tenants can document the issue in writing, follow up with clear requests, contact municipal property standards where relevant, and — if the problem continues — apply to the LTB using a T6 application, which can result in orders for repairs, rent abatement, or other remedies.

Generally: the notice of hearing, a copy of the application, the lease or tenancy agreement, relevant notices, communication records, photos, receipts, and a clear written summary of the timeline. Evidence usually needs to be shared with the other side in advance.

No. Some arrangements are excluded or only partly covered, such as certain owner-occupied shared accommodations where the owner shares a kitchen or bathroom with the tenant, some care facilities, and some seasonal or commercial properties. It's worth confirming unusual situations directly with the LTB.

The order sets out the decision and any deadlines or required actions. Either party may, in limited circumstances, request a review of the order or appeal a question of law to the Divisional Court. If a tenant does not move out as ordered, enforcement is carried out only by the Sheriff's office, not by the landlord.