If your landlord in Ontario has failed to follow a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) repair order, you have options to enforce that decision and protect your home’s habitability. This guide explains practical tenant steps — from documenting problems and using official forms to filing enforcement requests and seeking emergency repairs — in clear, plain language aimed at renters. You do not need to be a legal expert to follow the steps below, but acting quickly and keeping good records improves your chances of a successful outcome.
What an LTB order and the Residential Tenancies Act mean
An LTB order is a legal direction resulting from a hearing under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 that requires a landlord to do or stop doing something for the rental unit or property.[1] The Act sets landlord and tenant rights and obligations, and an LTB order enforces those rules.[2]
Common reasons landlords fail to comply and what tenants should do first
Non-compliance often shows up as ignored repair timelines, incomplete fixes, or missed safety upgrades. Before filing enforcement, try these practical steps to build your case and encourage compliance.
- Gather clear evidence: photos, dated text or email messages, and copies of any previous repair requests.
- Contact the landlord in writing (email or text is best) to remind them of the LTB order and request a completion date.
- Check the LTB order for specific deadlines and note them in a record with timestamps.
- If repairs affect safety (heat, water, electrical, mould), consider arranging temporary fixes and explain costs to the landlord in writing.
- If the landlord still does nothing, prepare to ask the LTB or other officials to enforce the order.
How enforcement can work in Ontario
The LTB can order compliance, compensation, or other remedies. If a landlord ignores an order, enforcement may involve filing materials with the LTB, requesting the Board send compliance directions, or using civil enforcement (for example, filing the order with the court or arranging sheriff enforcement when allowed). You can find official guidance and the Board’s enforcement resources on the LTB website.[3]
Forms, practical examples and when to use them
Use the LTB forms and e-services for most requests. If you must enforce an order, you will often use the LTB’s online application or enforcement request pages; the exact form name or number is on the Board’s forms directory. Example entries:
- LTB application or online filing (see the LTB forms list) — use this when you need the Board to enforce a previous order; for example, when a landlord ignores a repair order and you want the Board to direct compliance.
- Evidence package (no formal number) — photos, copies of the original LTB order, and dated messages demonstrating non-compliance; include this every time you file an enforcement request.
- Court or sheriff enforcement paperwork — only after confirming the LTB’s directions for enforcement; example: filing the Board order with the appropriate office to request sheriff attendance for physical enforcement.
When to get emergency repairs done yourself
If a repair affects immediate safety or basic services (no heat, major leaks, electrical hazards), tenants may arrange emergency repairs. Keep all receipts and notify the landlord in writing before and after the work. You can seek reimbursement or compensation through the LTB later if the landlord refuses to pay.
Relevant tenant resources and internal guides
For habitability guidance and what counts as a health or safety issue, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. For urgent repair processes and your responsibilities, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
FAQ
- What can I do immediately if my landlord ignores an LTB repair order?
- Document the problem, notify the landlord in writing with dates and photos, and check the LTB order for deadlines; if nothing changes, prepare an enforcement request with the LTB.
- Will I have to pay for emergency repairs myself?
- You may arrange emergency repairs to protect safety, keep receipts, and ask the landlord or the LTB for reimbursement later if the landlord refuses to cover costs.
- How long does enforcement take?
- Timelines vary: minor enforcement steps can take weeks, while complex matters or court-based enforcement may take months; follow LTB guidance and meet all deadlines to avoid delays.
How-To
- Gather evidence: take dated photos, save messages, and copy the LTB order.
- Check deadlines in the LTB order and note any time limits for compliance.
- Contact the landlord in writing to request a completion date and keep the message record.
- Use the LTB’s forms or online filing to request enforcement, attaching your evidence package.
- If the Board directs enforcement and the landlord still does not comply, follow the Board’s instructions to pursue court or sheriff enforcement.
- Keep a complete file of receipts, photos and communications for any compensation claim or future hearings.
Key Takeaways
- If a landlord ignores an LTB order you can ask the Board to enforce it or pursue court-based enforcement.
- Document everything: photos, dates, messages and receipts make enforcement easier.
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — Ontario
- Legal Aid Ontario — Tenant services and clinics
