Understanding Form L3 for Tenant Eviction After Notice in Ontario

If you've given your landlord written notice that you're moving out, you might think your responsibility ends there. However, Ontario landlords can use a form called L3 - "Application to End a Tenancy – Tenant Gave Notice or Agreed to Terminate the Tenancy" if you remain in the rental after your notice end date. This guide helps Ontario tenants understand the L3 process, your rights, and what steps to take if you receive this form.

What Is the L3 Form and When Is It Used?

Form L3 is an official application landlords file with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) in Ontario. It's used when:

• A tenant has given written notice (or signed an agreement) to end their tenancy, but
• The tenant stays in the rental unit beyond that agreed-upon end date

This process is part of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA)^[1], which sets out the lawful procedures for ending a tenancy in Ontario.

Real-Life Example

Suppose you told your landlord you’d move out on June 30 and handed in a 60-day notice as required. If you haven’t fully vacated on July 1, the landlord can apply to the LTB using the L3 Form to request your eviction.

What Happens When a Landlord Files Form L3?

Receiving a copy of Form L3 can be stressful, but understanding the process gives you clarity on your rights and next moves:

• The landlord serves you a copy of the L3 Application after you remain in the unit past your agreed notice date.
• The Landlord and Tenant Board will review the application and can issue an eviction order—sometimes without a hearing if there are no unresolved issues.
• Tenants can file a motion to set aside the order or request a hearing in certain situations within 10 days of receiving the order.

It’s important to respond promptly if you believe you have a legal reason to stay or didn’t intend to give up your tenancy.

Step-by-Step: What Tenants Should Do If They Receive an L3 Application

• 1. Review Your Notice or Agreement: Double-check the documents you provided your landlord. Did you sign something? Was your notice clear about your intended move-out date?
• 2. Read All Documents from the LTB: If you receive an L3 Application or an eviction order, read everything carefully. Look for deadlines to respond.
• 3. File a Response (If Necessary): If you have a lawful reason to stay (e.g., you never gave real written notice, or your agreement was misunderstood), you may apply to "set aside" the order. This should be done within 10 days of receiving it. Details and forms are on the Landlord and Tenant Board Forms page.
• 4. Get Legal Help: Ontario tenants can reach free legal clinics (see Resources below) for advice on their specific situation.
• 5. Plan Your Move: If you cannot successfully challenge the L3 Application, make arrangements to vacate promptly to avoid a Sheriff-enforced eviction.

This can be a good time to review How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant for advice on lawful notice and steps to finish your tenancy the right way.

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

• L3 – Application to End a Tenancy – Tenant Gave Notice or Agreed to Terminate the Tenancy: Download official L3 Form (LTB)
• Motion to Set Aside an Ex Parte Order: If you want to challenge an eviction order issued without a hearing, use the official motion form here

If you're preparing to leave your rental, review the Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for practical steps, checklists, and tips for a stress-free move. Making sure you're organized before your move-out date can help you avoid issues like a landlord using an L3 Application.

Your Rights, Responsibilities, and Avoiding Mistakes

It's important for tenants to know their legal obligations when ending a tenancy, including how to give proper notice and what happens if you stay beyond your end date. This helps you prevent misunderstandings that could lead to legal applications like Form L3.

For a comprehensive overview, read Tenant Rights in Ontario, or browse Canada's best rental listings platform if you need to find a new place that meets your needs.

1. What if I change my mind after giving notice to move out?
   You cannot simply take back your notice or agreement once it’s been given to the landlord. The landlord is allowed to rely on your notice and rent or plan to re-rent the unit to someone else. If you wish to stay, try to negotiate a new agreement with your landlord—in writing—but they aren’t obligated to accept.
2. Do I always have to attend a hearing if I receive an L3 Application?
   In some cases, the Landlord and Tenant Board can issue an eviction order without a hearing if you don't file a response. Apply to set aside the order quickly (within 10 days) if you want to contest it.
3. Can the landlord keep my deposit if I stay longer?
   Usually, your last month's rent deposit is applied to your final month only. If you overstay, your landlord can claim more rent and may use the L3 process to recover costs. For details, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
4. What happens if I move out before the Board makes a decision?
   If you vacate before the LTB decides, the landlord may withdraw the application and you can avoid an eviction record. Always notify your landlord if you’ve moved.
5. Where can I get help with an L3 Application?
   You can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or local community legal clinics (see Resources) for support and advice.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Form L3 is used by landlords after a tenant gives notice or agrees to move out but does not leave by the stated date.
• Act quickly if you receive an L3 Application—review your documents and seek legal guidance right away.
• Always put new agreements about move-out dates in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Information, forms, and applications, plus contact numbers.
• Community Legal Clinics (Steps to Justice): Free legal information and some representation for Ontario tenants.
• Phone: LTB Customer Service — 1-888-332-3234
• For full details of your rights: Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, Government of Ontario.
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), Tribunals Ontario.
3. LTB Form L3

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