Landlord Lockouts in Ontario: Legal Rights and What Tenants Can Do

Leases & Agreements Ontario published June 10, 2025 Flag of Ontario

Wondering whether a landlord can legally lock you out in Ontario? It’s a pressing concern for many tenants, especially during disputes or after missed rent payments. This article explains exactly what the law says, what steps you should take if you're locked out, and how to stay protected under Ontario’s rental regulations.

Is It Legal for a Landlord to Lock Out a Tenant in Ontario?

In almost all circumstances, landlords are not allowed to change your locks or prevent you from entering your home, even if rent is owed. Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 makes it illegal for a landlord to lock out a tenant without a formal eviction order from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) [1][2].

  • Landlords cannot: remove your possessions, change the locks, or deny you access while you are still legally a tenant.
  • Eviction must follow proper procedures and usually requires an LTB order.
  • There are very few exceptions (e.g., after a legal eviction is complete or if you have clearly abandoned the unit).

When Can a Landlord Change the Locks?

Most lock changes are only allowed after the LTB has issued an eviction order and the eviction has been enforced by a sheriff. Even then, a landlord should not remove or damage your belongings.

  • A landlord may change locks during your tenancy but must provide you with new keys immediately.
  • Tenants who are lawfully evicted may be denied further access only after a sheriff has enforced the order.

In short, if you’re still in your tenancy and haven't received a formal legal notice or sheriff's involvement, you have a right to live in your home.

What About Missed Rent or Lease Violations?

Even if you owe rent or are accused of breaking lease terms, the landlord must apply to the LTB and cannot take matters into their own hands. For legitimate rent issues, tenants should read the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for more information.

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What You Should Do If You Are Locked Out

If you return to your home and cannot enter because the locks have been changed (without a sheriff's eviction), your rights are being violated. Take the following steps immediately:

  • Document what happened — take photos or video showing you cannot access your home.
  • Try to communicate with your landlord in writing and request access.
  • Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board and, if necessary, local police (explain that this is a civil residential tenancy matter under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006).
  • Apply to the LTB using Form T2 (see below).
If you need safe temporary housing while resolving a lockout, contact local tenant aid organizations for emergency shelter options.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Form T2: Application About Tenant Rights

Form Name: Application About Tenant Rights (Form T2)
Use: Tenants use this form to complain to the LTB if their landlord has illegally locked them out, changed the locks, or withheld keys.
When to Use: If you’ve been locked out or denied access while still a tenant.
How to Use:

  • Download Form T2 from the Landlord and Tenant Board
  • Fill in the details about the lockout, attaching evidence.
  • Submit the form online, by mail, or in person as directed by the instructions on the official website.
  • Attend any scheduled hearing to explain your case and seek remedies (including possible compensation or an access order).

Typically, the LTB can order the landlord to allow you back in and/or pay you damages.

What Are the Landlord's Legal Obligations?

Ontario landlords must follow all rental laws and cannot take "self-help" eviction actions. Learn more about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to understand the boundaries for both parties.

  • Landlords owe tenants a right to quiet enjoyment and peaceful possession of their unit.
  • Any breach, including unauthorized lockouts, can result in LTB penalties.

For more on requirements and key facts, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Related Tenant Protections in Ontario

The rules around lockouts are closely tied to other tenant protections, such as those involving deposit handling, health and safety, and dealing with repairs. Tenants concerned about their overall rights should also review:

And for nationwide options to browse available homes, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord lock me out if I haven't paid rent?
    No. Your landlord must get an eviction order from the Landlord and Tenant Board, which is then enforced by the sheriff. Locking you out without this is illegal.
  2. What should I do if I return home and can't get in?
    Document the situation, contact your landlord in writing, and file a Form T2 Application with the LTB as soon as possible.
  3. Are there any situations where a lockout is legal?
    Only after a legal eviction completed by the sheriff, or if you have clearly and intentionally abandoned the property.
  4. Can the landlord change locks during my tenancy?
    Only if they provide you with new keys immediately, ensuring your continued access at all times.
  5. What protections do Ontario tenants have regarding access?
    Tenants have a legal right to access and quiet enjoyment of their home. For a full summary, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Key Takeaways

  • Landlords in Ontario cannot lock you out without following strict legal procedures.
  • If locked out, gather evidence, communicate in writing, and apply to the LTB with Form T2.
  • Tenants are always protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and should not be denied access without a court or tribunal order.

Remember: protect your rights by staying informed and taking prompt action if you face a lockout or similar rental dispute.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board Ontario
  3. LTB Forms – Application About Tenant Rights (Form T2)
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.