Employee Housing: Can Your Employer Evict You in Ontario?

If you live in housing provided by your employer in Ontario, understanding your rights as a tenant is crucial—especially when it comes to eviction or changes in your job status. Ontario law offers unique protections and specific rules for situations where a rental and employment relationship overlap. This guide explains how Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 applies to employer-provided housing, what steps employers must take if they want you to move out, and what you can do if you receive an eviction notice related to your job.

When Employment and Tenancy Overlap in Ontario

It's common in some industries (such as farming, hospitality, or caretaking) for employers to provide housing as part of a job. In these arrangements, your employer is also your landlord. However, your rights as a tenant still exist, though with some special considerations.

• The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) generally applies to employer-provided housing in Ontario.
• Certain types of housing are exempt (e.g., if you share a kitchen/bathroom with your employer or their family). Always check if your housing qualifies as a 'rental unit' under the law.
• Eviction rules differ for employees who live in employer housing depending on who owns or rents the property.

For a full overview of your rights, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Can Your Employer Evict You Just Because Your Job Ends?

No—your employer cannot simply change the locks or force you to move out when your job ends. Ontario law requires a formal process that respects your rights as a tenant. In most cases, you are entitled to proper written notice, and you can only be evicted by order of the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)—Ontario's official tribunal for tenancy disputes. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

Types of Employer-Provided Housing Covered

• On-farm or seasonal worker housing
• Residential caretaker and building superintendent apartments
• Rental units that are part of your job offer

Some forms of temporary or institutional worker housing may not be covered; consult the LTB for clarification.

How Eviction Works for Employee Tenants in Ontario

Ending your employment does not automatically end your tenancy. Here's what must happen:

• Your employer must provide an approved notice form indicating the specific reason for eviction (typically, because your employment has ended).
• In most cases, the employer must give you at least 28 days' notice in writing.
• You can dispute the eviction notice by applying to the LTB before the notice period expires.
• Only the LTB can issue an eviction order—your employer cannot remove you themselves.

Refer to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 eviction sections for legal details. Often, employers must use a special form (see below) and follow strict rules.

Official Forms: Notice to End Your Tenancy Because Employment Has Ended

• Form Name: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Tenant is No Longer Employed by the Landlord (Form N8)
• Official Form N8 - PDF Download
• When Used: If your job has ended but you remain in the housing, your employer can use this form to give at least 28 days' notice. For example, if a farm worker's employment ends, the farmer/landlord must serve Form N8 if they want the worker to move out.

If you wish to challenge the notice, you must apply to the LTB (e.g., by using the T2: Application About Tenant Rights form).

Special Considerations: Security Deposits, Rent, and Repairs

Your employer/landlord cannot withhold your last paycheck or other earnings as 'rent' or a security deposit. They must follow the usual rental deposit and rent rules set out in Ontario law.

• If you paid a deposit, learn your rights with Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• You retain the right to a safe, well-maintained unit for as long as you live there. Discover essential tips in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If repairs are not being made, you may have the right to file a complaint—contact the LTB for guidance.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice From Your Employer

If your employer serves you a Form N8, take these steps:

• Confirm that the form is filled out correctly, and note the move-out deadline.
• If you wish to dispute the eviction, apply to the LTB for a hearing before the notice expires.
• Collect all relevant documents (employment letter, rental agreement—see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement) and evidence of payment or communication.
• Seek legal help or tenant advocacy support if needed.

Even if your job ends, you do not need to leave until the end of the notice period or an eviction order is issued by the LTB.

Your Rights and Next Steps at a Glance

• You cannot be evicted without proper notice and an order from the LTB.
• You have a right to dispute any notice through a formal hearing.
• Employers must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 just like other landlords.

Need to find a new place after your tenancy ends? Explore rental homes in your area—Canada's all-in-one rental search platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my boss evict me from company-provided housing without proper notice?
   No—your employer must use the official Form N8 and usually give at least 28 days’ written notice. A legal eviction can only happen with an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board.
2. What happens if I stay after my employment ends?
   You remain a tenant until the notice period ends or the LTB issues an eviction order. You do not have to leave immediately.
3. Can my employer keep my last paycheck to cover rent?
   No—employers must pay all earnings as required by law. Rent and employment payments must be kept separate.
4. How do I contest an eviction notice from my employer?
   File an application with the LTB for a hearing before your notice period expires. Seek legal aid if needed.
5. Is every type of employer-provided housing covered by the Act?
   Most are, but if you share kitchen or bathroom facilities with your employer or their immediate family, different rules may apply. Contact the LTB for specific advice.

Conclusion: What Ontario Employee Tenants Should Remember

• Your employment ending does not mean your landlord (employer) can evict you without following the law.
• Always check if your housing is covered under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
• If you receive an eviction notice, you have the right to dispute it at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

This special tenancy situation can be stressful, but legal protections and support are available for Ontario tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario: Guidance, official forms, applications, and dispute resolution
• Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario - Your Rights
• Find local tenant advocacy services through your municipality or legal aid clinics
• Full overview at Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Ontario e-Laws
2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. Official Website
3. Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario. Official Page

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