Ending a tenancy in Ontario requires clear written communication, the correct notice period and proof that your notice was delivered. Whether you rent month-to-month, weekly or under a fixed-term lease, the steps below explain how to choose a termination date, use the Tenant's Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9), deliver your notice and prepare for possible disputes.
How and when to give notice
First, determine whether your tenancy is periodic or fixed-term. For a monthly tenancy, you generally must give at least 60 days' written notice before the end of a rental period. For a weekly tenancy, the common practice is 28 days. A fixed-term lease normally remains binding until the term ends unless you have the landlord's written agreement, can assign the lease or qualify for a legal exception. For questions about exceptions or disputes, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board[1] or review the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2].
- Choose the correct termination date for your tenancy type.
- Include the address of the rental unit and clearly state that you are ending the tenancy.
- Sign and date the notice.
- Keep a copy of the notice and proof of delivery.
Using the official tenant form
Ontario provides the Tenant's Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9). Many tenants use Form N9 because it contains the required details and provides a clear record of the tenant's intent to end the tenancy. Use Form N9 when you plan to end a tenancy at the end of a rental period or fixed term.
For example, if rent is due on the first of the month and you want to leave at the end of June, complete Form N9 and give it to the landlord so the landlord receives it at least 60 days before June 30.[3]
How to deliver your notice
Use a delivery method that lets you keep evidence of when the notice was provided and received:
- Deliver it in person and get a dated receipt or signed acknowledgement from the landlord.
- Send it by registered mail and keep the tracking or delivery confirmation.
- If the landlord agrees in writing, an emailed notice or scanned signed form can be acceptable. Get that written confirmation first.
What if you need to leave before the lease ends?
If you need to leave before a fixed-term lease ends, discuss options with your landlord. These may include a mutual termination agreement, an assignment or a sublet. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board[1] for relief in some circumstances.
Breaking a lease without an agreement may mean you remain responsible for rent until a new tenant is found or until the lease ends. Keep written records of your communications with the landlord.
For practical moving help and checklists, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant and Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit. If you need a new place after giving notice, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- How much notice do I need to give my landlord?
- For most month-to-month tenancies, you need to give at least 60 days' written notice before the end of your rental period. Weekly tenancies commonly require 28 days. A fixed-term agreement usually ends on the date set in the lease unless both parties agree otherwise.
- Do I have to use the official form?
- Using the Tenant's Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9) is recommended because it includes required information and is widely accepted. A signed written notice that includes the same details can also be valid.
- How do I prove I gave notice?
- Keep a signed copy, send the notice by registered mail and keep the delivery confirmation, or obtain a signed receipt. You can also secure written confirmation from the landlord. Photographs of delivered notices with timestamps can help as supporting evidence.
How-To
- Determine your tenancy type and the correct notice period: normally 60 days for monthly tenancies and commonly 28 days for weekly tenancies.
- Choose the termination date and complete the Tenant's Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9), or draft a clear written notice with the date, your signature and the rental address.
- Deliver the notice in person with a receipt, by registered mail, or by email only where the landlord has agreed to that method in writing.
- Keep copies and proof of delivery. Confirm in writing that the landlord received the notice if possible.
- If a dispute arises or you need to end a fixed-term lease early, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board[1] or seek community legal advice before deadlines expire.
Key Takeaways
- Identify whether your tenancy is monthly, weekly or fixed-term before choosing a termination date.
- Give written notice within the correct notice period and include the required details.
- Use Form N9 or a clear signed written notice, then keep proof of delivery.
- Discuss an agreement, assignment or sublet with the landlord if you need to leave a fixed-term lease early.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
- Ontario.ca: Ending a tenancy
