Ontario Rent Increase Notice Rules Explained for Tenants

If you rent a home in Ontario, understanding the rules around rent increases is crucial for planning your budget and defending your rights. The province has clear rules on how much notice a landlord must give before raising your rent. This article outlines what tenants need to know, which forms are required, and how the process works under Ontario's current laws.

When and How Can Your Landlord Increase the Rent?

In Ontario, landlords are not allowed to increase your rent whenever they want. There are specific rules under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 about how and when your rent can be raised.

  • Rent can only be increased once every 12 months (one year after your last rent increase or move-in date).
  • Your landlord must use the correct government form to give you advance notice.
  • The increase must be within Ontario’s annual rent increase guideline, unless your unit is exempt (e.g., some new or non-rent-controlled buildings).

For more details about annual increases and exceptions, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Is the Required Notice Period?

Your landlord must provide a written notice at least 90 days (three full months) before the rent increase takes effect. This gives you time to review the changes, adjust your finances, or raise concerns if needed.

Which Form Must Be Used? (Form N1)

Landlords are required to use the official Form N1: Notice of Rent Increase (download from the Landlord and Tenant Board) to inform tenants of a rent increase. The form must include:

  • Your address and unit information
  • Current rent and proposed new rent
  • The date when the increase will take effect (at least 90 days after you receive notice)
  • Signature and date by the landlord

Example: If your landlord gives you a Form N1 on April 1st, the new rent cannot start until July 1st.

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What Should Tenants Do If They Get a Rent Increase Notice?

Stay calm and review the notice carefully. Make sure it uses the official N1 form, and double-check the dates and the amount of increase. If something seems off, you have the right to ask for clarification or challenge the increase if it breaks the rules.

If you believe your landlord did not follow the correct process or your unit should be covered by rent control, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario for help.

Legal Protections and Exceptions

Most residential units in Ontario fall under rent control, meaning rent increases are capped by a government guideline each year. However, some units—such as those first occupied as residential after November 15, 2018—may be exempt. Always check your rental agreement and ask questions.

For a full overview of rights and exceptions, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

What If You Disagree with the Increase?

  • Discuss the notice with your landlord first—it may be a paperwork mistake.
  • If you don’t reach a solution, you can formally apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board within 12 months after the increase begins.
  • Use Form T1: Tenant Application for a Rebate of Money the Landlord Owes (download T1 here).

Always keep copies of any notices and communications for your records.

Key Tips for Tenants Facing a Rent Hike

  • Review the date your last rent increase took effect—has it been at least 12 months?
  • Check if the amount matches the current Ontario rent increase guideline
  • Ask your landlord to clarify anything unclear on the notice
  • Get help from tenant advocacy groups if needed
  • Explore Canada's best rental listings platform if you’re considering moving to a new, affordable unit

Related Tenant Information

After receiving a rent increase notice, it’s important to know your ongoing duties as a tenant. Our page What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement has practical advice for managing rent payments, property care, and communication with your landlord.

  1. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising the rent in Ontario?
    Landlords must give you at least 90 days’ written notice with the government’s official N1 form before any rent increase.
  2. What can I do if my landlord tries to raise the rent by more than the allowed guideline?
    You can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a rebate if the increase is above the government guideline or if the correct procedure wasn’t followed.
  3. Are all Ontario rental units subject to rent increase rules?
    Most are, but some units (for example, new builds occupied after November 15, 2018) might be exempt. Always check your situation or ask for advice.
  4. Does my landlord have to use a specific form for rent increases?
    Yes, the official Form N1 is required for valid rent increase notice.
  5. What if I want to move out because of a rent increase?
    You are not required to stay. If you choose to leave, you still need to provide proper notice to your landlord as specified in your lease.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Ontario’s rental housing legislation
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario): Official tribunal for tenancy disputes
  3. Form N1: Notice of Rent Increase: Landlord and Tenant Board Forms
  4. Ontario Rent Increase Guideline: Ontario government guideline
  5. Form T1: Tenant Application for a Rebate of Money the Landlord Owes: Download Form T1

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