What changed for tenants in Ontario in 2025
The 2025 updates refine timelines, add clarity to permitted grounds for eviction, adjust how rent increases are calculated in some situations, and emphasize timely repair obligations for landlords. These changes affect routine notices, how evidence is evaluated at hearings, and required forms you may receive or must file yourself.
- Limits and rules about rent increases, including timing and calculation changes.
- Changes to eviction notice grounds and procedures, with clearer timelines for hearings.
- Stronger requirements for repairs and habitability obligations for landlords.
- New or updated forms and notice templates tenants and landlords must use.
What this means for rent, repairs and evictions
Rent increases
Rent increases remain regulated; some procedural changes in 2025 affect how a landlord must calculate or give notice of an increase. If you receive a rent increase, check the notice carefully, confirm the effective date, and ask for a written calculation if it is unclear. The Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal framework for rent increases and other tenancy rules.[1]
- Ask the landlord for a written calculation and any supporting documents within the notice period.
- If you believe the increase is improper, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to dispute it.
- Keep dated copies of notices, receipts, and communications as evidence for any dispute.
Repairs and maintenance
Landlords are required to maintain units in a good state of repair; 2025 changes emphasize response times and documentation. If a necessary repair is not addressed, tell your landlord in writing and keep a copy. If the landlord does not act, you may be able to request a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board or seek an order requiring repairs.
- Report the problem in writing and keep a copy of the message and any photos.
- Note dates you reported the issue and the landlord's responses to show any delay.
- If repairs are urgent and not fixed, file an application with evidence for the Board to consider.
Evictions, notices and official forms
Eviction procedures continue to require formal notices and, in most cases, an application to the Landlord and Tenant Board before a forced eviction can occur. You will usually receive a written notice that explains the reason and timeframe; if a landlord applies to the Board you will receive a hearing date and opportunity to present your case. For how to apply or respond, use the official forms listed by the Board and follow the instructions exactly.[2][3]
- Respond to any eviction or termination notice by the stated deadline to preserve your right to a hearing.
- Gather photos, receipts, records of communication and witness statements to support your case.
- Attend the hearing and bring printed copies of all evidence; the Board will decide based on the record.
Finding a new rental and understanding deposits
If you are looking for another place or need to understand deposit rules, review the security deposit rules in Ontario and document the condition of the unit on move-in. Read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for steps on documenting condition and recovering deposits at move-out. For listings, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to search available units and neighbourhoods.
FAQ
- Can my landlord evict me without a hearing?
- In most cases no; landlords must apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board and you are entitled to notice and a hearing before an eviction order is issued.
- How much notice must a landlord give for a rent increase?
- Notice periods vary by type of tenancy and reason; check the notice you receive, keep a copy, and contact the Board or a tenant helpline if the timing looks incorrect.
- Which official forms might I need?
- Common forms include notices to terminate tenancy and Board application forms; always use the current forms from the Landlord and Tenant Board website and follow filing instructions.
How-To
- Gather documents: lease, photos of unit condition, rent receipts, emails, and text messages that relate to your issue.
- Check the notice: note any deadlines and the exact reason given and calculate your response deadline.
- File an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or submit the required form if you cannot resolve the issue with the landlord.
- Attend the hearing prepared with printed evidence and a clear timeline of events.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
- Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
