Facing eviction can feel overwhelming, but it’s possible to secure a new home in Ontario with the right information and support. Whether your eviction was for non-payment or other reasons, this guide provides practical strategies, legal steps, and helpful resources tailored to tenants navigating post-eviction housing challenges across Ontario.

Understanding Your Eviction and Rental History

Your rental history and the type of eviction may affect your chances of finding a new place. Ontario landlords often conduct reference and credit checks, and recent evictions can be a concern. However, understanding your rights and being prepared can make the process smoother.

Tenant Rights in Ontario are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, which outlines processes for legal evictions and tenant protections.^[1]

Action Steps: Moving Forward After an Eviction

• Request Documentation: Obtain all paperwork related to your eviction, such as notices, orders from the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario, or relevant correspondence. This may be needed for shelter or subsidy applications.
• Explore Temporary Housing: If you need immediate shelter, contact local housing help centres, municipal housing offices, or emergency shelters.
• Review Your Financial Options: Consider applying for rental assistance programs if eligible. Ontario Works and other community supports may offer short-term help for rent and deposits.
• Check Your Record: Some evictions are recorded with tenant reporting services. If possible, clarify the status and be prepared to address questions from future landlords.

Finding and Securing a New Rental

Start your search broadly and build a strong rental application package. Consider the following steps:

• Gather Required Documents: Have government ID, proof of income, past rental references, and your most recent notice or order ready.
• Be Honest With Landlords: If asked about your eviction, briefly explain the circumstances and show what steps you've taken to resolve the issue.
• Widen Your Search: Look beyond traditional apartment listings. Ask friends, family, and local social agencies for leads, and consider smaller landlords who may be more flexible.
• Use online platforms to discover new opportunities. Browse apartments for rent in Canada for a wide selection, including Ontario cities and towns.

Key Considerations Before Signing a New Lease

• Review the rental agreement carefully. Always get a copy in writing.
• Ask about required deposits—Ontario law allows a landlord to request a rent deposit but not a damage deposit. For more, review Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Conduct a walkthrough of your new home, preferably with the landlord present, to note any existing issues. See Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for helpful tips.

Once you sign a new lease, make sure you understand your ongoing obligations, such as timely rent payments, maintaining the property, and communicating repairs. Building a positive rental history helps protect your tenancy in the future.

Official Forms and Tribunal Information

The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) is the provincial authority that manages residential tenancy disputes.

• Form L2: Application to End a Tenancy and Evict a Tenant
  - This form is used by landlords to apply to the LTB to evict a tenant after a notice period ends.
  - As a tenant, you may wish to access this form’s information to review the grounds for your eviction.
  - Download Form L2
• Tenant Defense: If you believe your eviction was wrongful, you may apply to set aside the eviction order using Form S2: Motion to Set Aside an Ex Parte Order (see official S2 form). This is typically only available under specific circumstances and must be filed quickly.
• Rent Arrears: If your eviction was for non-payment and you have paid what you owe, you can use Form A2: Application about Tenant Rights (see A2 form) to address ongoing issues or rights violations.

All forms and detailed instructions are available on the LTB Forms and Filing page.^[2]

FAQ: Post-Eviction Housing in Ontario

1. Can I find a new rental unit immediately after eviction?
   Yes, you can apply for new rentals right away. Some landlords may ask about your eviction, so it’s helpful to provide references, stable income details, and a clear explanation if needed.
2. What should I do if I can’t afford a deposit or first month’s rent?
   Contact your local housing help centre or municipal office. They can direct you to financial supports and rent banks for assistance with deposits and moving expenses.
3. Does an eviction stay on my ‘record’ in Ontario?
   Evictions may be noted by tenant screening agencies if recorded by the LTB. However, there is no permanent government 'blacklist.' You can ask agencies to correct errors if your situation has changed.
4. Are there rules about deposits for new rentals in Ontario?
   Landlords in Ontario may only ask for a last month’s rent deposit—not a damage deposit. Learn more by reading Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
5. Where do I turn if I feel I was evicted unfairly?
   Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board to ask about appeal or review options. Community legal clinics may also help you navigate next steps.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Facing eviction in Ontario is challenging, but legal rights and community resources are available to help you restart.
• Prepare for your search: Gather documents, seek support, and know your rights regarding deposits and leases.
• Support from housing agencies, legal clinics, and platforms like Browse apartments for rent in Canada can help find your next home quickly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario: Official website – forms, tenant rights information, and filing instructions.
• Ontario's Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Provincial housing programs and supports
• Local Housing Help Centres: Find a location via The Housing Help Centre.
• Community Legal Clinics: Free legal support for tenants—locate your regional provider at Legal Aid Ontario.
• Learn More About Your Rights: Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full overview of tenant protections and eviction rules.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) – Official Forms and Information

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy