Ontario Tenant Guide: What to Do If Your Rent Is Raised Without Notice

If your landlord in Ontario tries to raise your rent without proper notice, it's important to know your rights as a tenant. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets specific rules for how and when rent can be increased. This guide explains what to do if you face a sudden, unexpected rent increase, so you can protect your housing and understand your options.

Rent Increases in Ontario: Legal Requirements

Under Ontario's laws, landlords must meet certain requirements before increasing your rent:

  • Provide a written notice at least 90 days before the rent goes up.
  • Use the provincial Form N1: Notice of Rent Increase (official form details below).
  • Follow the annual rent increase guideline set by the Ontario government, unless the unit is exempt.

Without these steps, a rent increase is not legally enforceable. For a full overview of your rights after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

What Happens If Rent Is Raised Without Notice?

If your landlord raises your rent without providing the required notice and using the correct form, you are not obligated to pay the increased amount. You should continue paying your current, agreed-upon rent. It's a good idea to inform your landlord in writing that the increase is invalid if you did not receive proper notice.

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What Is Proper Notice?

Landlords must give tenants the official Form N1 and serve it to you at least 90 days in advance. This allows tenants time to plan and consider their options before a higher rent takes effect. Learn more about your general obligations and rights at Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Steps to Take If Your Landlord Demands More Rent Without Notice

  • Do not pay the increased rent unless you have received official notice.
  • Write to your landlord explaining that Ontario law requires 90 days’ written notice using the approved form.
  • If pressured or threatened, keep all written communications.
  • If your landlord issues a formal notice using Form N1 but doesn’t follow the correct timing or rules, you can dispute the increase.

If informal communication doesn't work, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario.

Official Form: N1 – Notice of Rent Increase

  • Form name and number: Notice of Rent Increase (Form N1)
  • Use: Landlords must use this form to notify tenants of any rent increases for most units covered by the Act.
  • Where to get it: LTB official forms
  • When to use: The landlord must give this form to you at least 90 days before the proposed increase date.
If your landlord does not use the N1 form or gives less than 90 days’ notice, the increase is not valid. Keep records of all notices and correspondence.

If You’ve Already Paid the Increased Rent

If you unknowingly paid the higher rent without proper notice, you can ask your landlord to return the overpayment. If your landlord refuses, you may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to have your overpayment returned.

How to Challenge an Invalid Rent Increase

Tenants who wish to contest an invalid increase should apply to the LTB using Form T1: Tenant Application for a Rebate of Money the Landlord Owes:

  • Form T1 allows you to claim any rent paid above the legal amount.
  • Form T1 – Official Download
  • Submit the form online, by mail, or in person as per the LTB’s instructions.

Common Questions about Rent Increases in Ontario

From understanding the 90-day notice to what to do if you disagree with a rent increase, Ontario tenants often have questions. For a deep dive on this subject, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Finding Support and Additional Housing Resources

If you need to look for a new place or want to compare rents in your area while resolving a dispute, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for current listings and search tools nationwide.

For more local tenant information and facts, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

  1. What if my landlord tries to evict me for refusing the rent increase?
    Landlords cannot evict tenants solely for not accepting an illegal rent increase. If threatened with eviction, seek legal help or contact the Landlord and Tenant Board.
  2. Is my rent always subject to the guideline cap?
    Most units in Ontario are capped, but some newer or exempt rentals may be outside the guideline. Check with the LTB if you’re unsure.
  3. How do I serve my landlord written notice disputing the rent increase?
    Send a written letter or email stating the increase is invalid and reference Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act. Keep proof of your communication for your records.
  4. What if I want to move out because of the proposed increase?
    You can provide 60 days’ written notice before your termination date. Learn more about ending your lease on your terms from official LTB resources.
  5. Who can help me if my landlord won’t cooperate?
    You can contact tenant support centres, local legal clinics, or the Landlord and Tenant Board for advice and dispute resolution.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

  • Landlords must provide 90 days’ written notice (Form N1) before raising rent.
  • Never pay increased rent without proper notice—your current rent remains valid until a legal increase is properly served.
  • Disputes or overpayments can be brought before the Landlord and Tenant Board for resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario
  3. Ontario’s Rent Increase Guideline
  4. LTB Official Forms: N1 and T1

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