Eviction can be stressful and tenants in Ontario often face unexpected moving costs such as truck rental, storage fees, and utility reconnections. This guide explains when moving cost assistance may be available, what evidence to collect, and the official forms and deadlines to watch. It covers how the Landlord and Tenant Board and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 are involved and gives practical, step-by-step actions tenants can take to apply for help, negotiate with landlords, or seek compensation at a hearing. If you need to find a new place quickly, use tools to search rentals and save receipts for any expenses you hope to recover.
How moving cost assistance can work
In Ontario the Landlord and Tenant Board may order compensation for moving costs in certain situations, such as wrongful eviction, specific no-fault endings, or where a landlord has breached the tenancy agreement. Awards are case-specific: the Board considers reasonableness, documented receipts and whether the tenant tried to mitigate costs. Decisions and remedies are guided by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and Board procedures.[1][2]
Common items covered
- Moving truck or van rental costs.
- Temporary storage fees.
- Utility reconnection or overlap payments.
- Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses directly linked to vacating the unit.
Official bodies, legislation and forms
The Landlord and Tenant Board handles disputes and eviction hearings in Ontario[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets rules about notices, compensation, and remedies[2]. Specific notice forms such as the N4, N12 and N13 are described on the government's eviction notices page[3].
Key notices and forms
- Notice to End a Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent (Form N4) — used by landlords before applying to the Board; example: a landlord serves an N4 for unpaid rent and that notice starts the process that can lead to an eviction filing. Official source
- Notice to End a Tenancy for Landlord's or Purchaser's Use (Form N12) — used when a landlord claims personal use; example: a tenant may request compensation or accept an offered unit. Official source
- Notice to End a Tenancy for Demolition, Conversion or Repairs (Form N13) — used when major work or demolition is planned; example: a tenant documents extra moving and storage costs when seeking compensation. Official source
What evidence to collect
Gather documents that show costs and timelines: the eviction notice, lease, rent receipts, photos of the unit and belongings, moving receipts, storage invoices and any written communications with the landlord. Make clear notes about dates and attempts to find lower-cost alternatives. Provide copies with your application or bring originals to the hearing.
How-To
- Collect the eviction notice, lease, rent records, and all moving or storage receipts.
- Check deadlines on the notice and file any tenant application or response within the required time.
- Complete the correct Landlord and Tenant Board application forms and include copies of your evidence.
- Contact tenant legal clinics or duty counsel for help preparing your case.
- Attend the hearing, present receipts and explain your requested moving cost compensation.
FAQ
- Can I get moving costs paid if I'm evicted in Ontario?
- Yes, in some cases the Board may award moving or relocation costs if the eviction is without proper cause, for certain no-fault reasons, or if the landlord breached the tenancy agreement; bring receipts and records to the hearing.
- How long do I have to respond to an eviction notice?
- Deadlines depend on the notice type. Look at the notice and file any tenant response or application with the Landlord and Tenant Board within the stated time or as set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
- Where can I get free help to prepare an application?
- Legal clinics, community legal aid services, and duty counsel at hearings can help tenants prepare evidence and forms.
Key Takeaways
- Keep all receipts and written communication about the eviction and moving costs.
- Watch deadlines on notices and file with the Board promptly.
- Seek help early from tenant clinics or duty counsel to strengthen your case.
To find a new rental quickly, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme. For tips on moving and deposit handling, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- Notices to End a Tenancy (eviction notices)
