Tenants often worry about what happens to their personal belongings if they leave a rental in Ontario or are evicted without removing everything. This guide explains how landlords are allowed to collect, store, charge for, and ultimately dispose of abandoned tenant property under provincial rules. It covers common scenarios, the notices landlords must give, practical steps tenants can take to recover items, and when to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board. Clear examples and links to official forms and the Residential Tenancies Act are included so renters and tenants know their rights and responsibilities, how long landlords must keep belongings, and how to act quickly to protect valuable or sentimental items.
What the law says in Ontario
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 a landlord has obligations when a tenant abandons belongings and may need to give written notice before disposing of property. The Landlord and Tenant Board handles disputes about abandoned property and orders about disposal and compensation[1][2].
When belongings are considered abandoned
- Tenant moves out without notice or returns keys and leaves items behind.
- Items remain after an eviction or termination of tenancy.
- Personal property is left in common areas, storage lockers or sheds and the tenant cannot be reached.
Landlord obligations: notice, storage, and disposal
- Provide clear written notice to the tenant at their last known address explaining where items are stored and how long they will be kept.
- Store items safely, keep a detailed record of what is held, and take photos where possible.
- Charge reasonable storage fees only if permitted by law and document any deductions or charges.
- If the tenant objects or cannot be located, the landlord may need an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board before disposing of valuable items.
What tenants should do
If you have left items behind or believe belongings were taken as abandoned property, act quickly and document everything. Before moving, review Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit to reduce the chance of accidental abandonment. Find rental support if you are searching for a new place: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
- Contact the landlord in writing asking for the return of specific items and propose a pickup time.
- Provide proof of ownership where possible, such as photos, receipts or serial numbers.
- If the landlord refuses or a dispute arises, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to request an order for return or compensation.
FAQ
- Can my landlord throw away my things if I left them behind?
- No. Landlords must follow provincial rules before disposing of belongings and often must give notice and wait a set period or obtain a Board order.
- How long will a landlord hold my items?
- Retention periods vary by circumstance; landlords should state how long they will keep items in written notice and follow legal timelines or Board directions.
- What if I cannot collect my items in time?
- Arrange a representative to pick up items, provide clear proof of ownership, and communicate in writing; if necessary, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for help.
How-To
- Document and photograph the belongings you left or that the landlord is holding.
- Write to the landlord requesting return, propose pickup dates and keep a dated copy of the message.
- Arrange pickup or authorize a representative and obtain receipts for any storage fees paid.
- If the landlord refuses, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and bring your documentation to the hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Document items and communications to make recovery easier.
- Respond quickly to notices and meet any pickup deadlines.
- Use the Landlord and Tenant Board if you cannot resolve the issue directly with the landlord.
Help and Support / Resources
- Call the Landlord and Tenant Board for information on filing an application and hearings.
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for the legal framework on abandoned property.
- Consult Ontario government renter information pages for practical steps and contact details.
