Correcting Records After an Eviction in Ontario

Being labelled with an eviction can affect your ability to rent, secure housing, and pass background or credit checks. This guide explains how tenants in Ontario can review and correct tenancy records, gather evidence, and use the Landlord and Tenant Board and official forms to challenge incorrect listings or filings. It covers practical steps, documenting payments, requesting copies of decisions, filing correction requests, and what to do when disputes move to a hearing. The tone is supportive and plain-language so renters and tenants can follow timelines, understand required documents, and access help from legal clinics or tenant services. Examples and sample wording are included.

Why correcting an eviction record matters

An eviction notation or incorrect decision can limit your housing options, affect background checks used by landlords or screening companies, and make it harder to secure a new rental. Taking early, documented steps gives tenants the best chance to correct errors and show a landlord that issues were resolved.

Key steps to prepare

• Gather all rental records, receipts, and photos that show payments, condition, or communications.
• Contact the former landlord to request copies of any notices or records and ask whether they will correct a mistake.
• Note and preserve deadlines: tribunal filing deadlines and hearing dates can be strict.

Using official Ontario resources

Start with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for applications and hearings; the LTB handles disputes about eviction orders and tenancy decisions Landlord and Tenant Board^[1]. The governing law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, which explains rights and timelines for tenants in Ontario Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[2].

Official forms you may need

Many corrections begin by filing an application or requesting a copy of a decision. The Landlord and Tenant Board publishes forms and guidance for different situations (applications, responses, and evidence lists). See the LTB forms page for the exact form to use and how to file it online or by mail LTB forms and publications^[1].

• Application to the Board (various forms): used when a tenant or landlord requests a hearing about termination, arrears, or other orders; for example, file the appropriate application if you believe an eviction order contains errors and you want a hearing to present evidence.
• Request for copies of decisions: request the tribunal's decision transcript or order to verify the wording; practical example—use this to check whether the order records incorrect dates or amounts before filing a correction request.

How to file a correction or dispute

Follow these practical steps to submit a correction or dispute and prepare for a hearing.

1. Gather documents: receipts, bank records, photos, texts, and emails that support your version of events.
2. Request copies: ask the LTB or former landlord for the official decision or notices so you know exactly what is recorded.
3. Contact the landlord: politely request a correction in writing and keep a dated record of the communication.
4. File an application with the LTB within required timelines and include a clear explanation plus evidence; follow the LTB filing instructions and bring proof of service.
5. Attend the hearing: present organized evidence, witness contact information, and a short statement of what you want the Board to correct.
6. After a decision: get written confirmation, ask the LTB whether public records will be updated, and request a copy of the corrected order if one is issued.

Common issues and how tenants resolve them

• Incorrect dates or amounts on an eviction order: bring payment history and bank records to show the correct dates and amounts.
• Eviction recorded but landlord withdrew claim: request a written correction or a new tribunal order that cancels the prior notation.
• Public listings or screening companies still show an eviction: after a corrected decision, ask the screening agency to update their records and provide them the corrected order.

FAQ

How long does an eviction record affect my ability to rent?

An eviction notation can affect screening for years, but a corrected tribunal decision or evidence of payment can limit long-term impact; follow the LTB process to get official updates and keep your documentation.

Can I remove an eviction from a background check if it was an error?

Yes—if you can show the eviction listing is incorrect, file with the LTB and then ask the screening company to update or remove the record after you obtain a corrected decision or confirmation.

Where do I file a dispute about an eviction order in Ontario?

File with the Landlord and Tenant Board and follow the specific application instructions on the LTB website; seek help from a legal clinic if you need assistance preparing evidence.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents, receipts, and photos that support your case.
2. Request the official decision from the LTB and any written notices from your landlord.
3. Identify the correct LTB form and file an application with a clear statement of the correction you want.
4. Serve the application to the other party and keep proof of service to meet tribunal rules.
5. Attend the hearing prepared to explain the mistake and present your evidence succinctly.
6. After the hearing, obtain written confirmation of the decision and ask third parties to update listings if the Board orders a correction.

Key Takeaways

• Document everything related to payments, notices, and communications with your landlord.
• Use official LTB forms and follow filing deadlines to protect your rights.
• Seek help from legal clinics or tenant services if you need assistance preparing your case.

Help and Support / Resources

• Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing - Renters' rights and responsibilities
• Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)

1. [1] Tribunals Ontario - Landlord and Tenant Board
2. [2] Government of Ontario - Residential Tenancies Act, 2006