Ontario Tenant Eviction Checklist: Steps and Forms Explained

Facing eviction as a tenant in Ontario can feel overwhelming, but understanding each step empowers you to protect your rights and navigate the process with confidence. This practical guide gives Ontario tenants a complete eviction checklist, highlighting required legal forms, important deadlines, and how to respond effectively at every stage. Stay informed about your rights and what to expect under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

Eviction Laws and Oversight in Ontario

All official decisions about residential evictions in Ontario are made by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). The LTB handles eviction applications and ensures both landlords and tenants follow the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

For a detailed overview of Ontario tenant rights, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Quick Eviction Checklist for Tenants

• Review all written notices from your landlord carefully
• Understand the reason for eviction and if it’s legal
• Note dates and deadlines for each step
• Respond promptly and in writing whenever required
• Attend any hearings or mediation sessions at the LTB
• Know your right to stay until the LTB issues a formal order

Tip: Landlords may not evict a tenant without an LTB order, except in specific circumstances (e.g., sublets not covered under the RTA).

Main Eviction Reasons and Legal Notices

Ontario landlords must use official LTB forms to start the eviction process. Below are common notice types:

• N4: Notice to End your Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent
  • Used if you’re behind on rent
  • Gives 14 days’ notice (or 7 days if you pay rent weekly/daily)
  • Form: N4 at the LTB website
  • If rent is paid before the termination date, the notice is void
• N5: Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage, or Overcrowding
  • Used if the landlord claims you disturbed others or damaged the property
  • Gives 20 days’ notice but allows a 7-day correction period
  • Form: N5 at the LTB website
• N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser, or a Family Member Requires the Unit
  • Gives 60 days’ notice for landlord’s personal use
  • Form: N12 at the LTB website
  • You may be eligible for compensation (at least one month’s rent)
• N13: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord Wants to Demolish, Repair, or Convert the Unit
  • Gives 120 days’ notice
  • Form: N13 at the LTB website
  • May include compensation or right to move back after renovations

Each form is linked above. Only official LTB forms are valid for serving notices of termination in Ontario.

Your Rights and Next Steps After Receiving an Eviction Notice

If you receive a notice, don’t panic—receiving a notice doesn’t mean you have to leave immediately. You have the right to:

• Fix certain issues (e.g., pay overdue rent or correct a problem)
• Dispute the notice by staying in the unit
• Wait for the landlord to apply to the LTB to set a hearing date
• Present your side at the LTB hearing

What Happens at the LTB Hearing?

• You’ll receive a Notice of Hearing from the LTB (Form L1, L2, or others)
• You can bring evidence (correspondence, receipts, photos)
• You may bring witnesses or a support person
• The LTB will make a decision and issue an order

Missing the hearing may result in an automatic eviction order, so participate as soon as you receive notice.

Key Official Forms for Ontario Evictions

• N4, N5, N12, N13 Notices – Served by the landlord for different reasons (see above)
• L1: Application to Evict a Tenant for Non-payment of Rent and to Collect Rent the Tenant Owes
  • Submitted by landlord if rent is not paid after an N4
  • Form: L1 Application Form
• T2: Application about Tenant Rights
  • Tenants use this form if rights are violated (e.g., bad conditions, harassment)
  • Form: T2 Tenant Form
• Request to Review an Order (S2)
  • If you missed the hearing or weren’t able to present your case, you can ask for review
  • Form: Request to Review an Order

Always use the most up-to-date forms directly from the LTB’s forms page.

Preparing for Your Move (If Eviction is Ordered)

If the LTB grants an eviction order, you must usually move by the date stated. Take these steps for a smooth transition:

• Arrange for moving and cleaning on time
• Request a final inspection to document the unit’s condition (The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out)
• Collect a written record of all communications and copies of notices
• Return all keys
• If you paid a deposit, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out

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After the Eviction: Know Your Post-Tenancy Rights

• You may still pursue unresolved claims (e.g., for unreturned deposits, withheld mail, or property damages) after leaving
• If you disagree with the outcome, consider a Request to Review an Order

For a broader look at your rights, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Frequently Asked Questions About Evictions in Ontario

1. Can a landlord evict me without going to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
   No. In most cases, Ontario landlords cannot evict tenants without an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
2. What should I do if I receive an N4 (Non-payment) notice?
   Review the notice's details, pay overdue rent immediately if able, and keep payment records. If you dispute the amount or have already paid, prepare evidence for any LTB hearing.
3. How much notice does a landlord need to give for eviction in Ontario?
   The notice period depends on the reason: 14 days for non-payment, 20-60 days for most other reasons, up to 120 days for major repairs or demolition.
4. Can I appeal an LTB eviction order?
   Yes. You can file a Request to Review an Order (S2) if you missed your hearing or believe a serious error was made.
5. Where can I find official Ontario eviction forms?
   All current forms are available on the Landlord and Tenant Board forms page.

How-To: Respond to an Eviction Notice in Ontario

1. How do I respond to an N4 or N5 notice?
   Pay overdue rent or correct the issue promptly. Inform your landlord in writing of what action you’ve taken and keep copies for your records.
2. How do I dispute a landlord's eviction application at the LTB?
   Wait for your hearing date. Gather evidence, prepare your side, and attend the hearing. You can also submit evidence or bring witnesses to support your case.
3. How do I request a review of an eviction order?
   Use the "Request to Review an Order (S2)" form within the required time (generally 30 days), explaining the reason for your review, and submit it to the LTB as instructed on the form.
4. What if I need to move out quickly after an eviction order?
   Start arranging your move, notify utility companies, and set up mail forwarding. Clean the rental unit and request a written inspection if possible.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Ontario tenants must receive an official notice and have a chance to respond before eviction.
• Only the LTB can authorize most evictions under Ontario law.
• Always keep records of all notices, payments, and correspondence with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – Ontario: eviction procedures, forms, and hearing information
• Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO): free legal information and support
• Local community legal clinics: Many provide free assistance to tenants facing eviction (find a Legal Aid Ontario clinic)
• Tenant Rights in Ontario: full provincial rights and helpful links

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Obtain the full text at Ontario legislation website.
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) official resources: https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/
3. LTB official eviction forms: https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/forms/

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