Facing an illegal eviction in Ontario can be stressful, but it's important to know you have rights and clear steps to take if you believe you've been forced out without legal process. Ontario's laws protect tenants from illegal evictions and outline how you can challenge unfair treatment, helping ensure that landlords follow proper procedures.

What Is an Illegal Eviction in Ontario?

An illegal eviction occurs when a landlord removes a tenant from their rental unit without following the legal process described in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. This includes changing the locks without notice, cutting off essential services (like water or heat), harassment, or forcing a tenant out without an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Landlords must have a legal reason and proper documentation to evict a tenant in Ontario. Most evictions require a hearing and an official order from the LTB, not just a landlord’s notice or verbal instructions. For a full overview of tenant protections and rules, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Common Examples of Illegal Evictions

• Your landlord physically removes you or your belongings without LTB involvement
• Locks are changed without giving you keys or notice
• Utilities (heat, water, electricity) are cut off to force you to leave
• Harassment, threats, or intimidation to make you move out
• Being told you must leave immediately, without due process

If you experience any of these, Ontario law gives you the right to challenge the eviction and seek remedies.

How to Report and Challenge an Illegal Eviction

If you've been illegally evicted, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for help. Here’s a step-by-step guide to protect your rights:

1. Document Everything

• Write down dates, times, and details of what happened
• Take photos of property damage, changed locks, or notices
• Keep any communication with your landlord (texts, emails, letters)

Tip: Having a clear record helps support your case if you file a complaint or seek compensation.

2. Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the official tribunal that handles disputes between landlords and tenants in Ontario. To report an illegal eviction, tenants most commonly use:

• Form T2 – Application About Tenant Rights: Use this form if your landlord has illegally evicted you, interfered with your reasonable enjoyment, or withheld vital services.

When to Use: If you've been locked out or forced out, file the T2 as soon as possible—ideally within one year of the incident.

Where to Get the Form: Download Form T2: Application About Tenant Rights from the official LTB website.

What the Form Does: It allows you to ask the LTB for an order to:

• Get back into your rental unit
• Receive compensation for losses or personal hardship
• Order your landlord to stop illegal actions

3. Submit the Form and Evidence

• Attach supporting documents to your T2 application (photos, emails, police or bylaw reports if available)
• Submit your application online, by mail, or in person at an LTB office
• Pay the LTB filing fee (fee waivers available if you have low income)

For more information, visit the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) website.

4. Attend the LTB Hearing

• You will receive a hearing date where both parties provide evidence
• The Board will review the evidence and make a decision
• If the eviction is found illegal, they may order compensation or reinstate your tenancy

Many tenants find it helpful to review Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them when preparing their case or dealing with eviction-related challenges.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Illegal evictions can have serious consequences for landlords, so Ontario law encourages both parties to know their rights. For a broad overview, tenants can read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What to Do If the Landlord Acts Improperly

If your landlord continues to harass you, refuses you access to your home, or interferes with services, you may also consider:

• Reporting the issue to local bylaw or police (for lockouts or unsafe situations)
• Requesting an urgent hearing with the LTB
• Seeking an order for damages, lost property, or harassment

Stay calm, keep written records, and follow the official process for the best results.

Additional Tools for Ontario Renters

• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare your current tenancy or find new options if you need to move due to an unresolved dispute.
• Always review Tenant Rights in Ontario for the latest provincial rules, rent increase regulations, maintenance standards, and maximum legal protections.

1. What counts as an illegal eviction in Ontario?
   An illegal eviction happens when a landlord tries to make a tenant leave without a Landlord and Tenant Board order, changes the locks without giving new keys, or withholds vital services to force a move.
2. Can I move back in after an illegal eviction?
   If the LTB finds your eviction was illegal, they may order the landlord to let you move back in or pay you compensation for damages and losses.
3. How quickly should I file a T2 application after eviction?
   You should file as soon as possible and within one year of the incident to ensure your complaint can be heard and evidence is fresh.
4. Does reporting an illegal eviction affect my rental history?
   No, making a complaint to the LTB is your right and cannot legally be used against you by landlords or reported to credit bureaus.
5. What evidence helps support my complaint?
   Photos, emails, texts, witness statements, and police or bylaw reports can all be presented with your LTB application to strengthen your case.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Illegal evictions are prohibited—landlords must always follow Ontario’s legal process
• Document everything, apply to the LTB using Form T2, and attend your hearing
• Get support from tenant organizations, legal clinics, or the LTB to protect your housing rights

Understanding and using these steps ensures you stand up for your rights and prevent further issues.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – Ontario: Tribunal for all tenant eviction and rights issues
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – full text
• Legal Aid Ontario: Find a community legal clinic
• Local municipality bylaw offices (for lockouts, vital services, health & safety issues)
• Ontario Tenant Hotline: Phone support at 416-921-9494 (Greater Toronto Area) or 1-888-332-3234 (toll-free)

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1. [1] See the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Government of Ontario)
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb
3. Form T2: Application About Tenant Rights (Official LTB Forms)

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