Ontario Tenant FAQs
Know your rights, your remedies, and your next steps — starting free
Ontario tenancy rules can be confusing — especially when facing evictions, rent increases, repair issues, or landlord harassment. This FAQ explains tenant rights under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and how the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) process works, in plain language.
If you don’t find your answer here — or your situation is urgent — our Ontario-licensed paralegals can review your case and explain your options.
✔ Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario
✔ Flat-Fee Pricing — No Hidden Costs
✔ Serving Tenants Across Ontario
★★★★★ Verified Google Review
“Provided very clear and straightforward advice.” — Dharma D., Former Client
Clear Answers. Real Protection. Zero Confusion.
Navigating tenant rights in Ontario can be frustrating — but you’re not alone. Whether your landlord is ignoring urgent repairs, invading your privacy, threatening eviction, or violating your basic rights, our legal team is here to guide you with clarity and confidence.
This FAQ was built with real tenants in mind. We’ve answered the most common (and most critical) questions we hear every day — in plain English, without the legal jargon.
✔ Know your rights under the RTA
✔ Understand when your landlord is breaking the law
✔ Learn how we help tenants win cases at the LTB
✔ Get straight answers on costs, timelines, and what to expect
Take the first step to regain control of your tenancy matter—starting free, confidential, and without pressure.
Not Sure Where to Begin? You’re In the Right Place
The first step to resolving rent and repair disputes is understanding your rights, organizing your evidence, and acting within Ontario’s legal timelines.
Turn uncertainty into a plan. Turn a plan into action.
Start with clarity, build with evidence, and move forward with confidence.
1. What are my rights as a tenant under Ontario’s RTA?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe, well-maintained home, privacy, and protection against unlawful rent increases or evictions.
Your landlord must follow the rules set by the RTA.
2. Can my landlord increase rent at any time?
No. Rent increases can only occur once every 12 months and must follow Ontario’s annual guideline.
Your landlord must also give at least 90 days’ written notice using the proper form.
3. What if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
You can request repairs in writing, document the issue, and if necessary, file a T6 application with the LTB.
A paralegal can help prepare and present your case.
4. Can my landlord enter my unit without permission?
Only in specific situations — for example, with 24 hours’ written notice or in emergencies.
Otherwise, entry without consent may violate your right to privacy.
5. What if I’m being harassed or threatened with eviction?
Keep records of all communications and contact a paralegal immediately.
⚠️Important: Harassment and illegal evictions are prohibited under the RTA and can be challenged through the LTB.
6. I received an eviction notice — what should I do first?
⚠️Do not ignore it.
Review the notice carefully and contact a licensed paralegal right away.
You may have options to contest or negotiate before a hearing.
7. What’s the difference between N4, N5, N12, and N13 notices?
- N4: Non-payment of rent
- N5: Disturbing others or damaging property
- N12: Landlord or purchaser wants to move in
- N13: Demolition, conversion, or major renovations
Each has different timelines and legal implications.
8. Can my landlord evict me without a hearing?
No. In most cases, a hearing before the LTB is required before an eviction order can be enforced.
Noteworthy, some exceptions may apply.
9. Can I stop or delay an eviction after it’s ordered?
Sometimes, yes. You may be able to file a motion to set aside or request a review of the LTB decision if there’s a valid reason or new information.
10. What can I do if my landlord raised the rent illegally?
You can file a T1 application with the LTB to recover overpaid rent.
Our licensed paralegals can help calculate the amount and prepare the paperwork.
11. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
No — withholding rent can put you at risk of eviction.
Instead, apply to the LTB for a rent reduction or order to compel repairs.
12. Can my landlord charge extra fees or deposits?
In Ontario, landlords can only collect a key deposit (refundable) and last month’s rent.
Any other deposit or “damage fee” is not permitted.
13. Can I break my lease early without penalty?
Yes, in certain cases — for example, if you and your landlord agree in writing, if you assign your unit, or under specific conditions such as domestic violence or safety concerns.
14. Do I have to sign a new lease every year?
No. When a lease term ends, it usually becomes a month-to-month tenancy under the same terms and conditions.
15. What happens if my landlord wants to change my lease?
Any change requires your written consent or proper legal notice.
Without it, the existing lease terms remain in effect.
16. How do I file a tenant application with the LTB?
Applications can be filed online through Tribunals Ontario or by mail.
A paralegal can ensure your documents and evidence are properly submitted.
17. What should I expect during an LTB hearing?
You’ll have a chance to present your case, provide evidence, and answer questions.
A paralegal can represent you, speak on your behalf, and cross-examine witnesses.
18. How long does the process take?
Timelines vary depending on the type of application and regional caseload.
Some matters resolve in weeks; others take several months.
19. Can a paralegal represent me at the hearing?
Yes. Licensed paralegals in Ontario are authorized to represent tenants at the LTB.
20. How can a paralegal help with my tenant issue?
A paralegal can review your case, prepare and file your LTB application, negotiate with the landlord, and represent you at hearings — saving time, stress, and potential mistakes.
21. How much do your services cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of your matter, but we offer transparent, fixed pricing and payment options.
Initial consultations are often free or low-cost.
All tenant service fees are clearly published on our website under our Fees page for quick, transparent reference.
22. Do you offer virtual or phone consultations?
Yes. We assist clients across Ontario through virtual meetings, phone calls, or email — wherever you’re located.
23. What happens if my landlord sells the property?
The new owner must honour your existing lease and rental terms. You cannot be evicted just because the property is sold.
However, if the new owner wants the unit for personal use, then they can file with the LTB requesting that you be ordered to vacate the unit.
They will have to prove their case and you will also have an oppotunity to bring up any concerns.
24. Can I have roommates or sublet my unit?
Yes, you can have roommates without the consent of your landlord.
If you want to sublet, you must get the landlord's permission in writing.
⚠️Important: Regardless, you remain responsible for rent and damages unless properly assigned.
25. What can I do if my landlord threatens to change the locks?
That is illegal without an LTB order.
Contact us immediately — we can act quickly to protect your rights and help restore access if necessary.
Legal Support for Ontario Tenants That Moves Cases Forward
We Don’t Just Know the Law—We Use the Law Strategically at the LTB
Rent disputes, unlawful entry, harassment, and eviction applications are won on process, proof, and effective advocacy. Our Ontario-licensed paralegals apply the RTA and LTB procedure to help tenants pursue enforceable remedies, stronger filings, and defensible hearing strategies.
Tenants Trust Us to Take Action on What Matters Most
✔ Harassment intervention and prevention
✔ Repair enforcement and rent abatement requests
✔ Eviction defence and notice validity review
✔ Privacy breach remedies and evidence support
✔ Hearing representation where scheduling allows
Outcomes Tenants Come to Us For
- Harassment stopped
- Repairs enforced
- Evictions defended or challenged
- Privacy rights protected
- Unlawful charges disputed with the right remedies
Tenants Across Ontario Rely on Us for One Reason:
We Follow Through. Thousands recovered. Rights upheld. Claims filed the right way. Get Ontario tenant guidance that replaces uncertainty with a strategy and moves your case forward with clarity and confidence.
Your first step is free, confidential, and built around your situation.
“Provided very clear and straight forward advice. Would recommend you reach out.”
Dharma D., Former Client
Verified Google Review
Serving Tenants Across Ontario
Whether you own a single rental unit or manage multiple properties, we’re here to support you anywhere in Ontario. Our services are provided virtually, which means you can get legal guidance, document review, and representation without needing to travel or take time away from your schedule.
We assist landlords in major cities and small communities alike — including Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, Mississauga, Brampton, London, Windsor, Barrie, Kitchener-Waterloo, Kingston, and everywhere in between.
No matter where your property is located, you’ll receive the same attentive, knowledgeable, and results-focused service.
