An eviction can be stressful, and many Ontario tenants worry about how it affects future housing opportunities. This guide explains what appears on your record after eviction, if and how removals are possible in Ontario, and what steps you can take. We also cover your rights, the role of the Landlord and Tenant Board, and support resources, so you can move forward with confidence.

What Is an Eviction Record in Ontario?

In Ontario, an eviction record usually refers to outcomes from legal proceedings at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). If your landlord files an application with the LTB and an order for eviction is issued against you, this becomes part of the public record. This record may be available to credit reporting agencies and third-party tenant screening services.

While there isn’t a single, central government “eviction database” accessible to the public, LTB orders are published online for a period. Records can influence future rental applications because some landlords or tenant screening agencies check for prior evictions.

How Are Eviction Records Created?

• A landlord files an application for eviction at the LTB (usually using Form L1, L2, or L4 depending on the reason)
• The LTB hears the case; if an eviction is granted, a written order is issued
• This order may be publicly available and sometimes picked up by credit agencies

Private screening companies may also collect eviction information from LTB records, but the most official confirmation comes directly from the Board’s publicly posted decisions.

Can an Eviction Be Removed from Your Record?

In most cases, once the LTB makes an eviction order, it stays on the public record and cannot be removed or "expunged." However, there are some circumstances where tenants may be able to challenge or clarify their record:

• If the eviction order was made in error
• If you never received notice of the hearing and were not able to participate
• If you successfully appealed the eviction decision and had it overturned

Screening companies and credit bureaus may show eviction-related data, but no official Ontario government process automatically erases LTB eviction orders. Still, you do have options if there has been a mistake or an order should not be on your record.

What Can You Do If Your Eviction Record Is Incorrect or Unfair?

If you believe your record is inaccurate, you may be able to take action through the LTB or by contacting credit bureaus and screening companies.

Set Aside an Eviction Order: (LTB Form S2)

• Form S2: Motion to Set Aside an Order
• Official LTB forms page

If you missed a hearing (for example, you did not receive notice or could not attend for serious reasons), you can ask the LTB to "set aside" (cancel) the eviction order using Form S2. You must do this as soon as possible after learning of the eviction order.

Example: You only learn about an eviction order after you have been locked out. You quickly file Form S2 arguing you were not properly notified. The LTB may schedule a new hearing and potentially cancel the order.

Appealing an Eviction Order: Divisional Court

You may appeal an LTB eviction order to the Ontario Divisional Court. Generally, appeals are only allowed for questions of law. There is no special form; you must file a notice of appeal with the court within 30 days of the order. Seek legal advice before appealing, as the process is technical.

Correcting Credit Reporting Errors

If a credit bureau or screening agency reports an eviction in error, you have the right to dispute the record. Contact Equifax or TransUnion with documentation (e.g., LTB order is set aside or was not against you).

How Long Do Eviction Records Last?

LTB decisions are typically posted for a certain period (e.g., 3 years), but they may persist longer in third-party databases. Credit bureaus may keep records of rental judgments for up to 6-7 years.

If you resolve the issue with your landlord or pay arrears before a hearing, your record could be less negatively impacted. Always try to address disputes early.

How to Reduce the Impact of an Eviction on Future Rentals

• Provide context to future landlords about your situation
• Offer references from other rentals or employment
• Document arrears paid or settlement reached after eviction
• Move out voluntarily before formal eviction may help protect your record

Preparing paperwork, references, and honest explanations can improve your chances when searching for a new rental.

Post-Eviction Steps for Tenants

It’s normal to feel uncertain after losing a home. After an eviction, focus on these steps:

• Document all communication with your former landlord
• Collect and safeguard any LTB orders, correspondence, or proof of payment
• Contact credit agencies to check your report and dispute errors
• Begin looking for new rentals—Search Canadian rentals with interactive map view

For tips on a smoother transition after an eviction, see our Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Know Your Rights and Next Steps

For more on eviction and rental rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario. It’s a good idea to read about the Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them if you’re dealing with related concerns. Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 outlines all rights and responsibilities for landlords and tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord remove an eviction from my record in Ontario?
   No, landlords themselves cannot remove a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) eviction order. Only the LTB or a higher court can set aside or overturn the decision in very limited situations.
2. Does an eviction impact my credit rating in Ontario?
   An eviction itself usually does not appear directly on your credit report, but unpaid rent or related judgments may affect your credit score, and screening agencies may note eviction records.
3. What should I do if screening companies have incorrect eviction information?
   Contact both the credit bureau and the screening agency in writing and provide proof (such as an LTB decision being set aside or not against you) to dispute the record.
4. Is there a government eviction database in Ontario?
   There is no single searchable government eviction database for the public. However, LTB orders are published online for a period, and screening agencies may collect these records.
5. How can I improve my chances of being approved for a new rental after eviction?
   Offer honest explanations, provide references and proof of paid arrears, and search for housing through platforms with many options like Houseme.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Eviction records in Ontario mainly exist through LTB orders and can impact tenant screening.
• Only the LTB or a court can set aside or overturn eviction records under specific conditions.
• Tenants can dispute errors with both the LTB and credit agencies.
• Being proactive and gathering documentation can help you move forward confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario: Information, forms, and applications
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
• CLEO: Eviction Information for Tenants (official legal resource in plain language)
• Ontario’s 211 Ontario: Connects tenants with housing help, legal clinics, and social support
• Legal clinics: Search for your local Community Legal Clinic for free tenant legal advice

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1. Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario)
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
3. LTB Forms and Applications

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