What is an illegal eviction?
An illegal eviction happens when a landlord forces a tenant to leave, or tries to remove a tenant's rights, without following the required legal process. Common illegal eviction actions include:
- Changing locks or blocking a tenant from entering their unit
- Cutting off heat, water, electricity, or other essential services
- Threats, harassment, or retaliation intended to make a tenant leave
- Removing a tenant's belongings or physically evicting them without a board order
Why these actions matter and legal consequences
Illegal evictions undermine tenant safety and housing security. In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out the legal eviction process and remedies; landlords who ignore it may face orders to compensate tenants, fines, or enforcement by the Landlord and Tenant Board.[2][1] Tenants can apply to the Board for an order to stop the eviction, recover possessions, or seek damages.
Key official forms and examples of when to use them:
- Application about Tenant Rights (Form T2) — used when a tenant alleges harassment, illegal entry, lock changes, utility shutoffs, or other breaches of tenant rights; for example, file a T2 if your landlord changed the locks without notice and will not restore access.[3]
- Application to Terminate a Tenancy and Evict a Tenant (Form L1) — used by a landlord to start a lawful eviction process for specific grounds such as non-payment; tenants should know this form exists so they can verify the landlord followed rules before vacating.[4]
Documenting the problem
Careful documentation makes applications to the Board stronger. Keep dated photos, videos, written notes, copies of messages, and records of any repairs or utility interruptions. Log phone calls and in-person conversations, with dates and brief descriptions.
Immediate steps tenants can take
- Preserve evidence: take photos, screenshots, and keep all messages and receipts
- Contact the landlord in writing to request access or restoration of services and keep a copy
- File the appropriate application with the Landlord and Tenant Board if the landlord will not correct the issue[1]
If you need a new place because the situation is unsafe or irreparable, you can search listings while you resolve the dispute; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to see current options and plan your next steps.
Help tenants understand landlord obligations
Landlords must follow rules about notice, entry, repairs, and lawful eviction processes. If you want a quick primer on responsibilities for both sides, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for practical obligations and expectations. For Ontario-specific rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Ontario for a clear overview grounded in provincial rules.
FAQ
- Can a landlord change my locks without warning?
- No. A landlord cannot lawfully change locks without proper notice or a board order; doing so may amount to an illegal eviction and you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for remedies.[1]
- What if my utilities are shut off by the landlord?
- Cutting off heat, water, or electricity can be an illegal eviction or breach of habitability; keep evidence and file an application with the Board, and contact emergency services if a safety risk exists.[2]
- How long will a Board hearing take?
- Timelines vary based on case complexity and scheduling at the Landlord and Tenant Board; file promptly and keep all records to support urgent remedies.
How-To
- Document the incident with dated photos, videos, and written notes
- Send a written request to the landlord asking to restore access or services and keep a copy
- File Application about Tenant Rights (Form T2) with the Landlord and Tenant Board and attach your evidence[3]
- Attend the hearing, present your records, and follow the Board's orders if granted
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- [2] Renting in Ontario - Ontario.ca
- [3] LTB Forms and Guides
