What is an N12 notice?
An N12 is the notice a landlord uses in Ontario to say the rental unit is required for personal use by the landlord, a purchaser, or a close family member. The notice must use the official form and include specific details about who will move in and when; the official Form N12 is published by the Ontario government and explained below.[3]
When can a landlord use an N12 in Ontario?
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 a landlord may give an N12 when they, a purchaser, or an immediate family member intends to occupy the unit. There are clear rules about timing, compensation, and how the termination date aligns with the rental period.[1]
- Landlord or immediate family member requires the unit for their own occupancy; the notice must state who and the intended move-in date.
- A purchaser requires the unit for their own occupation and the purchaser must be named in the notice.
- The landlord must either give the tenant compensation equal to one month s rent or offer another acceptable rental unit when the notice takes effect.
- The termination date must be the last day of a rental period and comply with the minimum notice period set out in the Act.
- If the tenant does not agree or questions the notice, the landlord or tenant can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a decision.
Tenant rights and practical next steps
Tenants have rights and options. You can accept the notice in exchange for compensation, negotiate with the landlord, or dispute the claim at the Landlord and Tenant Board. Document everything in writing and keep copies of the notice, messages, photos, and receipts.
- Seek free legal advice or tenant clinic assistance early to understand options and deadlines.
- Gather evidence that may support your position, such as alternative housing offers, proof of vulnerable household members, or records of prior agreements.
- Write a dated response if you wish to accept compensation, negotiate or formally reject the claim; keep a copy for your records.
- If you accept compensation, get the amount and terms in writing and confirm the move-out date and condition expectations.
- If you plan to dispute the notice, prepare to file or respond to an application at the Landlord and Tenant Board and attend any hearing.
FAQ
- What is the notice period for an N12 in Ontario?
- The N12 must provide at least the minimum notice required by the Residential Tenancies Act and end on the last day of a rental period; commonly this is 60 days depending on the tenancy cycle.
- Can a tenant be forced to move if the landlord claims personal use?
- No. A landlord must follow the rules, provide the proper form and compensation, and the tenant can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if the claim seems dishonest or unfair.
- What compensation am I entitled to if served with an N12?
- Typically compensation equal to one month s rent or an offer of another acceptable unit; get any agreement in writing and confirm details before moving out.
How-To
- Read the N12 notice carefully and note the termination date and who intends to occupy the unit.
- Gather documents: the written notice, photos, correspondence, and proof of your tenancy history.
- Contact a tenant legal clinic, community legal service, or the Landlord and Tenant Board to learn how to respond and whether you have grounds to dispute the notice.[2]
- Decide whether to accept compensation, negotiate terms, or file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and submit required forms on time.
- If you will move, plan your move, inspect the unit with the landlord, and use resources like How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant and Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit to protect your deposit and rights.
Key Takeaways
- An N12 is for personal use claims and must follow the Residential Tenancies Act.
- Tenants should document, seek advice, and consider disputing questionable notices.
- Compensation or alternative housing may be required when an N12 takes effect.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board - Tribunals Ontario
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
- Form N12 - Ontario government
If you need to find a new place after an N12, consider using an online map-based search to compare units quickly; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you locate available listings.
