If you're a tenant in Ontario and suspect your landlord is retaliating against you—whether through eviction threats, sudden rent increases, or refusing repairs—it's important to know your legal rights and the concrete steps you can take. This guide explains how to identify landlord retaliation, what evidence courts and tribunals require, and what to do if you need to file a claim. All information is up-to-date and based on current Ontario tenancy law.

What Is Landlord Retaliation?

Landlord retaliation occurs when a landlord takes action against a tenant for exercising their legal rights. In Ontario, this includes things like serving an eviction notice soon after you request repairs, ask about your rights, or make a formal complaint to the city or to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

• Retaliatory eviction notices
• Rent increases issued after you assert your rights
• Refusal to perform necessary repairs
• Harassment because you contacted an inspector or advocacy group

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects Ontario tenants from such retaliation.^[1]

Legal Protections in Ontario

Section 22 and Section 23 of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) prohibit landlords from harassing, coercing, or retaliating against tenants. The law also makes it illegal for landlords to try to force you out just because you exercised your rights, like requesting repairs or making a complaint.^[1]

Common Situations Where Retaliation Occurs

• A tenant requests urgent repairs, and the landlord issues an eviction notice shortly thereafter
• A tenant complains to a city inspector about poor maintenance and is then threatened with eviction or rent hikes
• The tenant formally applies to the LTB, and soon after, the landlord withholds services or access

Knowing the difference between a legitimate landlord action (such as following required notice periods or raising rent within legal guidelines) and retaliation is crucial. Consider reviewing Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for more on lawful rent increases.

Proving Landlord Retaliation: What Evidence Do You Need?

To successfully show the LTB or a court that a landlord's action was retaliatory, you must present clear evidence. Here's what to focus on:

• Timeline: Keep a record of when you exercised your right (for example, made a repair request or complained) and when the landlord responded negatively.
• Written Documentation: Save all emails, texts, letters, repair requests, and notices.
• Photos or Videos: Take pictures of needed repairs or evidence of denied access or harassment.
• Witnesses: Collect statements from neighbours or any third party who saw or heard the retaliation.

If there is a clear connection between your action and the landlord’s response, the LTB may find the landlord acted in bad faith.

Tip:

Keep a detailed log of all communications and incidents—from the day you first raise an issue until your matter is resolved.

Filing a Complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles residential tenancy disputes in Ontario. If you believe your landlord has retaliated against you, you may apply to the LTB for relief.

Relevant LTB Forms

• T2: Application About Tenant Rights (official form page)
  Use this if your landlord: gave you a notice of termination for an improper reason, interfered with your rights, or took retaliatory actions. Example: Your landlord gives you a notice of eviction soon after you report pest problems.
• N5: Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage or Overcrowding (form link)
  Although this notice is typically issued by landlords, if you receive it shortly after asserting your rights, it may serve as evidence of retaliation when responding at your hearing.

Always submit proper documentation and forms as soon as possible. Late applications may be dismissed.

Step-by-Step: How to Respond to Suspected Retaliation

Taking action quickly and properly improves your chances of a fair outcome. Here are the practical steps to follow:

• Gather all evidence and records of communication.
• Consult community legal clinics or tenant support organizations for guidance.
• Fill out the appropriate LTB form (often T2) and submit it to the Board with your evidence.
• Prepare for your hearing or mediation, organizing your materials chronologically.
• Attend the hearing and present your case calmly and clearly.

Learn more about general tenant and landlord rights in Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Additional Considerations

• All Ontario tenants have both rights and responsibilities. Understanding these can prevent misunderstandings and strengthen your position if a dispute arises. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more details.
• Many resolved complaints involve negotiation, mediation, or early settlement—so staying calm and solution-focused often benefits both parties.

When looking for your next rental, remember you can Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings tailored to all budgets and preferences.

FAQ: Landlord Retaliation in Ontario

1. What actions qualify as landlord retaliation?
   Retaliation includes evicting, threatening, raising rent illegally, or refusing repairs because you exercised your tenant rights.
2. How long do I have to file a complaint with the LTB?
   Generally, you must file an application within one year of the incident. Act as soon as possible to avoid dismissal.
3. Can my landlord refuse repairs if I made a complaint?
   No. Landlords must fulfill repair and maintenance duties regardless of any dispute. Retaliating by denying repairs is prohibited.
4. Is it legal for a landlord to evict a tenant after they request pest control or repairs?
   No. This may be considered retaliatory and unlawful—unless there is another valid reason for eviction under the RTA.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Keep thorough, dated records of all tenant-landlord communications.
• Know your rights and act quickly if retaliation is suspected.
• The LTB exists to protect Ontario tenants from unlawful practices.

If you think you're experiencing retaliation, don’t ignore it—reach out for help and document everything.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – File forms, read guides, get updates
• Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Tenant Support Centre: Tenant Information
• Local Community Legal Clinics (search "community legal clinic Ontario" online)
• Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full overview

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1. [1] Key parts of Ontario tenant law are in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Forms and more are at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

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