If you are a tenant in Ontario, it's natural to wonder whether your landlord can retaliate against you for making a complaint—especially if you've raised issues like repairs, rent increases, or health and safety concerns. This article explains your rights under Ontario law, the process for making a complaint, and what to do if you face retaliation. All guidance is based on up-to-date provincial rules and official government sources.
What Is Landlord Retaliation?
Landlord retaliation is when a landlord tries to punish a tenant for asserting their legal rights. Retaliation can take many forms, including serving an eviction notice, increasing rent unfairly, or cutting services because you made a complaint or asked for repairs.
Your Rights as a Tenant in Ontario
Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects tenants against retaliatory actions. Landlords are not allowed to evict, threaten, or harass tenants simply because they:
- File a complaint with the landlord or city about the condition of the rental unit
- Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
- Join a tenant association
- Exercise any other legal rights
For a complete overview of your provincial rights, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.
Examples of Landlord Retaliation
- Serving notice to terminate your tenancy soon after you complain about unit repairs
- Significant rent increase outside provincial guidelines right after you ask for maintenance
- Refusing essential services (like heat or water) when you exercise your rights
How the Law Protects You
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 makes it illegal for landlords to penalize tenants because they file a complaint, participate in a tenant association, or seek help from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). If a landlord tries to evict you for one of these reasons, the LTB may rule the eviction invalid.
Who Handles Disputes?
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario is the official body that resolves disputes between tenants and landlords. Tenants can file applications to the LTB if they experience retaliation or harassment after making a complaint.
Filing a Complaint and Protecting Yourself
If you have concerns about your rental unit—such as maintenance, health and safety, or other issues—Ontario tenants have several steps they can follow to protect themselves and assert their rights without fear of legal retaliation.
Common Issues Tenants May Raise
- Necessary repairs and ongoing maintenance
- Emergencies or urgent repairs (like leaks or heating problems)
- Health and safety risks, such as pests or mold
For additional advice on raising concerns with your landlord, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.
Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them
- T2 Application – Tenant Application about Tenant Rights
This form is used if a tenant believes their landlord has taken retaliatory action (such as serving an eviction notice or withholding services) after they exercised their rights. For example, if you requested repairs and your landlord suddenly tries to evict you, you can submit a T2 Application to the LTB.
Find the form and instructions: Official T2 Form (Landlord and Tenant Board) - Form N5 – Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage or Overcrowding
If you receive this form after making a complaint, it could be an act of retaliation. Keep the notice and consult the LTB. You may be able to challenge it by filing a T2 application.
What to Do If You Suspect Retaliation
- Keep all documentation and communication with your landlord
- Respond to any notices in writing
- If you are given an eviction notice after filing a complaint, file a T2 Application with the LTB quickly
- Contact legal aid or a local tenant advocacy service for guidance
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Related Topics
Landlord-tenant issues sometimes involve maintenance, health, or other problems. For further information, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
- Can my landlord evict me for making a complaint to the city or LTB?
Landlords cannot legally evict you for making a complaint. If they serve you with an eviction notice after you complain, you may challenge it through the LTB. - What proof do I need to show landlord retaliation?
Keep emails, texts, written notices, and a timeline of your complaint and your landlord's actions. This can help prove a connection if retaliation occurs. - Which forms are needed if I believe I'm being retaliated against?
Use the "T2 Application – Tenant Application about Tenant Rights" to file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board. Include all supporting documents. - Should I stop paying rent if my landlord is retaliating?
No. Always continue paying your rent on time. Not paying could legally justify an eviction regardless of retaliation claims. - Who can help me if I feel unsafe or harassed?
You can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board, Legal Aid Ontario, or a tenant advocacy group for help and advice.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
- Ontario law protects tenants from landlord retaliation for filing complaints or asserting their rights
- Keep thorough records and respond in writing if you suspect retaliation
- The Landlord and Tenant Board is your official avenue for resolving disputes and filing applications
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – official dispute resolution and complaints
- Ontario Government – Renting: Your Rights
- Legal Aid Ontario – tenant legal support
- Local community legal clinics – offer free advice and sometimes representation
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, SO 2006, c 17. Official Legislation
- Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. LTB Website
- Ontario Government Renting: Your Rights. Gov Info
