Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. In Ontario, a landlord may only increase the rent once every 12 months and must provide at least 90 days’ written notice. The increase must follow Ontario’s rent increase guideline or be approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board.

What should I do if my landlord is not making repairs?

First, put your request in writing and keep a copy. If the problem isn’t fixed, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T6 to request an order that repairs be completed.

How much notice do I need to give to move out?

Most tenants must give a minimum of 60 days’ written notice using Form N9. There are exceptions for some cases; always check your lease and consult the Board if unsure.

What is the process if I receive an eviction notice?

Review the notice for accuracy, and contact the Landlord and Tenant Board right away. You have the right to a hearing and to present your side before any eviction can proceed.

Do I have to pay a security deposit?

Ontario does not allow security deposits for damages. Only a rent deposit (usually for the last month’s rent) is legal under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Ontario Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: Your Complete 2024 Guide

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Ontario published July 01, 2025

Renting in Ontario comes with both valuable protections and essential obligations. Whether facing questions about rent increases, repairs, or eviction, knowing your legal rights as a tenant – and understanding your responsibilities – is crucial to confident, stress-free renting. This guide explains your major rights and duties under Ontario law and what practical steps to take if you run into issues, so you can make informed decisions during your tenancy.

Core Rights of Tenants in Ontario

Ontario tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. This legislation covers most rental housing, including apartments, houses, and condos. Here are some of your fundamental rights as a tenant:

Security of Tenure: You cannot be evicted without legal grounds and due process.
Right to a Safe, Healthy Home: Your rental must be kept in good repair, meet health, safety, and maintenance standards, and utilities must work.
Privacy and Notice: Your landlord cannot enter your home without written notice (usually at least 24 hours, except in emergencies).
Legal Rent Increases Only: Your rent can only be increased once per year, with a minimum 90 days’ written notice and within the government’s guideline, unless exempt.
Receipt for Payments: You are entitled to a written receipt for any rent payment, upon request.

For a comprehensive overview, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Your Main Responsibilities as a Tenant

Being a good tenant means meeting your own legal duties. These include:

Paying Rent on Time: Rent is due on the agreed date, typically the first of the month.
Keeping Your Home Reasonably Clean: You must maintain cleanliness and not cause undue damage.
Not Disturbing Others: Respect your neighbours’ right to reasonable enjoyment and privacy.
Reporting Repairs: Promptly notify your landlord about repair needs or hazards.
Following Building Rules: Comply with reasonable rules in your lease or building posted policies.

If you want to know exactly what you and your landlord are responsible for, check Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Understanding Deposits and Initial Payments

When starting a tenancy, your landlord may ask for a rent deposit (also called last month’s rent). This deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent and cannot be used for anything other than your final month’s rent. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Repairs, Maintenance, and Safety

Your landlord must ensure your home is in a good state of repair and complies with health and safety standards, regardless of your rental agreement. You are obligated to report any needed repairs. Common repair issues might include leaky plumbing, heating problems, or pest infestations.

For a deeper dive, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Handling Rent Increases, Eviction, and Ending Your Tenancy

Rent Increases

Landlords must give at least 90 days’ written notice before raising your rent, and the increase must follow Ontario’s rent guidelines unless your unit is exempt. You can check the current guideline on the Landlord and Tenant Board website.^[2]

Eviction

You can only be evicted for specific reasons (like non-payment of rent or substantial damage) and after proper notice. If you receive an eviction notice, do not panic. There is a legal process, and you have the right to a hearing before the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), Ontario’s housing tribunal.^[3]

Ending Your Tenancy

You must give your landlord written notice if you wish to move out. For most tenancies, this is 60 days before your end date. Use official forms listed below for a smooth termination.

Essential Official Forms for Ontario Tenants

Form N9: Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy
Use if you wish to end your tenancy and move out. Must be submitted at least 60 days before your lease end or intended move-out date.
Download from the Landlord and Tenant Board Forms page.
Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance
File this form if your landlord isn’t completing required repairs, addressing pests, or failing to maintain your home.
Example: You report mold in your bathroom, but the landlord does not fix the issue.
Get it from the official LTB site.
Form T2: Application about Tenant Rights
Use if your landlord is interfering with your rights (e.g., illegal entry, harassment, etc).
Available at the Landlord and Tenant Board Forms page.

Always follow form instructions carefully and keep a copy for your records. If you need one-on-one advice, the Board can provide guidance (but not legal advocacy).

Need to Move or Find a New Place?

Moving or searching for a new apartment? All-in-one rental site for Canadian cities lets you discover listings and make informed decisions before you sign a lease.

Learn More About Your Rights

For a detailed summary of tenant rights, responsibilities, and housing law updates in your province, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?
No. In Ontario, a landlord may only increase the rent once every 12 months and must provide at least 90 days’ written notice. The increase must follow Ontario’s rent increase guideline or be approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board.
What should I do if my landlord is not making repairs?
First, put your request in writing and keep a copy. If the problem isn’t fixed, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T6 to request an order that repairs be completed.
How much notice do I need to give to move out?
Most tenants must give a minimum of 60 days’ written notice using Form N9. There are exceptions for some cases; always check your lease and consult the Board if unsure.
What is the process if I receive an eviction notice?
Review the notice for accuracy, and contact the Landlord and Tenant Board right away. You have the right to a hearing and to present your side before any eviction can proceed.
Do I have to pay a security deposit?
Ontario does not allow security deposits for damages. Only a rent deposit (usually for the last month’s rent) is legal under the Residential Tenancies Act.

How-To: Common Tenant Actions

How to ask your landlord for repairs in writing
Describe the problem clearly, include photos if possible, and state when you expect the repairs to be completed. Keep a copy for your own records.
How to give proper notice to move out
Complete Form N9 and deliver it to your landlord—either by hand, mail, or another approved method—at least 60 days before you plan to leave.
How to challenge a rent increase you believe is unlawful
Compare the increase against the current guideline and contact the Landlord and Tenant Board to dispute improper increases. Submit a written objection and ask for a hearing if needed.
How to deal with harassment or illegal entry by your landlord
Maintain a log of incidents. Use Form T2 to file a complaint with the LTB if your landlord enters without notice or harasses you.
How to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board
Download the required form (e.g. T2, T6) from the LTB website, fill it out with all details and evidence, and submit as specified by the Board (online, by mail, or in-person).

Key Takeaways

Ontario law provides strong protection for tenants, but you are responsible for knowing your duties.
Put all issues and requests in writing, and use official forms to protect your rights.
If you face serious disputes or possible eviction, seek help early from the Landlord and Tenant Board or a tenant support service.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Tribunal for Ontario housing disputes, rent increases, evictions, and payment concerns.
Ontario Government – Renting in Ontario: Official tenant and landlord information, acts, and guides.
Guide to the Residential Tenancies Act: Plain-language government guide for tenants and landlords.
Tenant Rights in Ontario: Quick facts, recent changes, and contact details for further help.

Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Official Ontario tenancy legislation.
Rent Increase Guidelines – Landlord and Tenant Board
Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)