Eviction FAQ for Ontario Tenants: Your Rights & Next Steps

If you’re renting a home in Ontario and concerned about eviction, you’re not alone. Understanding your rights and the eviction process under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 is essential for all tenants. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about evictions in Ontario, explains key official forms, and offers practical steps if you receive a notice of eviction or face proceedings at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Eviction Basics in Ontario

Eviction means your landlord is legally asking you to leave your rental unit. However, a landlord cannot simply tell you to move out—there is a legal process they must follow, including proper notice and, usually, a hearing at the LTB.

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Non-payment of rent
• Persistent late payment of rent
• Serious damage to the property
• Illegal acts on the premises
• The landlord (or their family) needs to move in
• Renovations or demolition

Each reason requires a specific process and, usually, a particular form or notice. Remember, even if you receive a notice, you don’t have to move out immediately unless ordered by the LTB after a hearing.

Eviction Notices and Official Forms in Ontario

Landlords must use the correct forms to give proper notice. Here are the most commonly used eviction-related forms:

• N4 – Notice to End your Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent: Used if you owe rent. This is typically the first step. You have 14 days (or 7 for daily/weekly tenancies) to pay up or leave before a landlord can apply to the Board.
  Access the official N4 form
• L1 – Application to Evict a Tenant for Non-payment of Rent: If you don’t pay or move out after the N4 notice period, your landlord may file this application with the LTB.
  Access the official L1 form
• N5 – Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage or Overcrowding: For issues like property damage, disturbances, or overcrowding. You may have a chance to correct the problem within 7 days.
  Access the official N5 form
• Tenant’s Response: If you wish to challenge the landlord’s application, be sure to attend any LTB hearing and submit relevant supporting documents on time. You can also file your own application to the Board if needed.

All Landlord and Tenant Board forms are available directly from the official LTB forms page.

Your Rights During the Eviction Process

Ontario law gives tenants several important rights during eviction:

• The right to receive proper written notice on the correct form
• The right to correct many issues (such as unpaid rent) by the specified deadline
• If the landlord applies to the LTB, the right to attend a hearing and present your side
• The right to stay in your home until the Board issues a formal order—and only the Sheriff can enforce this order

If your eviction relates to maintenance issues or landlord responsibilities, review the information in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for guidance on getting repairs addressed and documenting communication.

If You Receive an Eviction Notice: What Should You Do?

Don’t panic. Here’s a quick summary of practical steps to take if you’re served an eviction notice:

• Carefully read the notice and note all deadlines
• If it’s for rent, pay the full amount owed before the notice expires, if possible
• Communicate with your landlord in writing
• Gather any proof (receipts, emails, repair requests) to support your case
• If you receive an LTB application, prepare for the hearing and consider legal advice

You have the right to participate in any hearing and share your side. If you need to move, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant for guidance on giving notice and planning your next steps.

More About Tenant and Landlord Rights in Ontario

For a complete overview of legal protections and responsibilities in Ontario—including evictions, repairs, and deposits—visit Tenant Rights in Ontario. This resource explains what the law says for both tenants and landlords.

Other Helpful Resources for Tenants

• Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for all forms, application instructions, and tribunal contact details
• Ontario’s government renting guide for tenants
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

1. How much notice must a landlord give for eviction in Ontario?
   For non-payment of rent, the notice period is 14 days for monthly tenancies (7 days for weekly/daily). Other reasons require longer notice—up to 120 days for major renovations. Always check your notice form for timelines.
2. Do I have to move out on the date listed in the eviction notice?
   No. You only have to move out when the Landlord and Tenant Board issues an official eviction order and the Sheriff enforces it, unless you agree to leave earlier.
3. What happens if I pay my overdue rent after receiving an N4 notice?
   If you pay what you owe within the notice period, your landlord cannot apply to evict you for that reason. Always get a receipt and keep proof of payment.
4. Can I be evicted for asking for repairs or making a complaint?
   No. Ontario law protects tenants from “retaliatory eviction.” If you believe eviction is being used improperly, document everything and contact the LTB.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights during eviction?
   See Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full overview of eviction rules, notice requirements, and LTB procedures.

1. How do I respond to an eviction notice in Ontario?
   Carefully read the notice, check why you’re being evicted, and respond promptly—such as paying overdue rent, fixing an issue, or preparing evidence for your hearing.
2. How to prepare for a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hearing?
   Gather all relevant documents (notices, receipts, correspondence). Be ready to explain your circumstances and bring witnesses if needed. Attend the hearing, online or in-person, as scheduled by the LTB.
3. How to file a tenant application to dispute an eviction?
   Download the correct application form from the LTB website, fill it out, and submit it according to their instructions.
4. How to end your lease properly if you choose to leave?
   Give written notice to your landlord using legal timeframes—usually 60 days for monthly leases. See more at How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Official forms, applications, and tenant guides
• Community Legal Clinics: Offer free legal advice for tenants—find one at Legal Aid Ontario
• Ontario Government Rental Rights Portal: Official tenant information

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – see full Ontario tenancy legislation
2. Landlord and Tenant Board official site: LTB Ontario
3. Official Ontario eviction forms: LTB Forms

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