Landlord Fails to Pay LTB Compensation Order in Ontario

If your landlord in Ontario does not pay a compensation order from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), you have options to enforce the decision and recover money owed. This guide explains clear steps tenants can take, the official forms to use, typical timelines, and when to ask for help. It covers how to gather evidence, file enforcement paperwork, request garnishment or a writ, and what to expect at enforcement hearings. The language is practical and avoids legal jargon so renters can act confidently. Keeping records, following deadlines, and using the right forms increases the chance of a successful outcome for tenants seeking compensation.

What to do when a landlord ignores an LTB order

Start by confirming the LTB order is final and collectible. The Landlord and Tenant Board maintains information on orders and enforcement procedures Landlord and Tenant Board^[1]. If the landlord still won’t pay, consider these common enforcement paths: filing the order with court for registration as a judgment, asking a sheriff to seize assets, or seeking garnishment of wages or bank accounts.

Documents to gather

• All LTB decision pages and the written order showing the amount awarded.
• Receipts, payment records, and bank statements proving amounts owed or paid.
• Photos, messages, or emails that support your claim about costs or damages.
• Any forms or filings you already submitted to the LTB or courts.

Practical enforcement options

• Register the LTB order as a judgment with the appropriate court so you can file enforcement paperwork.
• Apply for garnishment (wages or bank accounts) to collect the ordered amount.
• Ask for a writ of seizure and sale through the sheriff to seize assets if garnishment is not possible.

Official forms and when to use them

Ontario tenants typically use tribunal guidance and court enforcement forms depending on the route:

• The LTB information page on enforcing orders explains next steps and required documentation; use it first to understand whether registration or sheriff action is appropriate.^[1]
• If you register the order as a judgment, follow the court’s registration procedures and use the court’s enforcement forms for garnishment or writs (see Ontario guidance on enforcing judgments).^[3]
• Refer to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for legal context about what the LTB may order and your rights as a tenant.^[2]

How to prepare for enforcement

Before you file enforcement paperwork, organize a clear package: the LTB order, proof of delivery or service, attempts to collect, copies of receipts and photos, and a short chronology. If you plan garnishment, you will need current employment or bank details for the respondent. Keep copies and a signed affidavit where required for the court or sheriff.

FAQ

How long does it take to enforce an LTB compensation order?

Timing varies: registration and court steps can take weeks to months depending on caseloads, sheriff availability, and whether the landlord contests enforcement.

Can my landlord appeal the LTB order to avoid payment?

There are limited appeal options; the landlord may request a review or file a judicial review in court, which can delay enforcement while steps proceed.

Will enforcement cost me money?

There can be filing and sheriff fees; sometimes you can ask the court or sheriff to add enforcement costs to the judgment so the landlord ultimately pays them.

How-To

1. Confirm the LTB order is final and copy the full decision and order for filing.
2. Register the order as a judgment at the appropriate court following the court’s instructions.
3. Apply for garnishment or a writ using the court’s enforcement forms; include evidence of the debt and the judgment.
4. If needed, contact the sheriff for seizure and sale steps and provide the writ and supporting documents.
5. Keep copies of all filings, track dates, and follow up regularly until funds are recovered or another resolution is reached.

Key Takeaways

• Save all orders, receipts, messages and photos to support enforcement.
• Use the LTB guidance and court forms in the right order to speed enforcement.
• Contact official resources early for help with filings and sheriff procedures.

Help and Support / Resources

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) - enforcement guidance and forms
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 - Ontario legislation
• Ontario: How to enforce a judgment using sheriffs and court procedures

1. [1] Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
3. [3] Ontario guidance on enforcing a legal judgment

For relocation or finding alternate housing while you pursue enforcement, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and review tenant responsibilities in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained or learn about deposits at Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.