Speaking up about problems in your rental, like maintenance or safety issues, is your legal right as a tenant in Ontario. But many tenants worry: what if my landlord tries to evict me, raise my rent unfairly, or otherwise punish me for making a complaint? This article explains Ontario’s laws protecting tenants from landlord retaliation, the steps to take if you feel targeted after a complaint, and where to find support.

Understanding Retaliation and Tenant Rights in Ontario

In Ontario, landlords are prohibited from retaliating against tenants who exercise their legal rights—such as requesting repairs, complaining about unsafe conditions, or contacting local authorities. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1] (RTA) is the law governing these protections. If you have raised a legitimate concern and face consequences like eviction, rent increases, or harassment shortly after, this could be unlawful retaliation.

What Counts as Retaliation?

• Serving an eviction notice soon after you make a complaint
• Raising your rent outside of the legal guidelines following a dispute
• Failing to provide repairs or services you are legally entitled to
• Threats or harassment after you exert your tenant rights

Learn more about your Tenant Rights in Ontario for an overview of legal protections and key responsibilities.

What Ontario’s Law Says: Key Protections for Tenants

Section 22 and Section 23 of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 specifically prohibit landlords from harassing, coercing, or interfering with tenants’ rights. Section 50 also makes it illegal to evict a tenant as punishment for asserting their rights—such as contacting property standards or making a maintenance complaint.

The Tribunal for Tenant Disputes

In Ontario, the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is responsible for handling rental disputes, including allegations of retaliation, unfair eviction, and unresolved complaints.

What to Do If You Experience Retaliation

If you believe your landlord is retaliating after you filed a complaint, it’s crucial to respond quickly and keep detailed records. Here are the practical steps tenants in Ontario should follow:

• Document everything: Keep records of all complaints you’ve made, correspondence with your landlord, and any actions taken against you afterward.
• Respond to eviction or rent increase notices in writing.
• Gather witness statements, photos, or communications supporting your situation.
• Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a hearing if you believe your rights are being violated.

For practical advice on handling complaints in your rental, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Essential Forms: Protecting Yourself at the Landlord and Tenant Board

• T2: Application About Tenant Rights – File this with the LTB if your landlord is harassing, threatening, or penalizing you for asserting your rights.
  
  • When to use: If you experienced retaliation after requesting repairs, reporting health/safety issues, or exercising any other legal right.
  • How to submit: Complete the T2 Form: Application About Tenant Rights and follow submission instructions. Tenants may apply online or by mail. Example: After reporting mold, you receive an eviction notice—submit a T2 to challenge this as retaliation.
• N5: Notice to End Your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage, or Overcrowding – If you receive this notice from your landlord shortly after a complaint, and you believe it's retaliatory, you may defend yourself at the Board using your evidence.

Complaint Examples

• Reporting broken heating or unsafe electrical wiring
• Requesting pest control or addressing persistent leaks
• Contacting bylaw enforcement for major health and safety violations (see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting)

When you stand up for safe and fair housing, Ontario law backs you up. Visit Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings for secure opportunities and a helpful tenant-focused experience.

How to Take Action if You Face Retaliation

• Request repairs (in writing): Always notify your landlord of issues in writing and allow reasonable time for a response.
• File an LTB Application: Use Form T2 if your rights have been violated.
• Seek support: Contact local legal clinics or tenant advocacy resources.

Understanding your rights gives you confidence to address issues and maintain a positive rental experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me for filing a complaint?
   No. Under Ontario law, eviction as retaliation for a complaint is prohibited. Tenants can challenge such actions by applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board.
2. How can I prove landlord retaliation?
   Keep records of your complaints, any written responses, timing of notices, and any other evidence that shows a pattern of retaliation.
3. What should I do if my landlord increases my rent after a complaint?
   Rent increases must follow legal guidelines and can’t be used as retaliation. If you suspect unfair treatment, seek advice and consider an application to the Board.
4. Who do I contact if repairs are not made and the landlord is uncooperative?
   You can report serious health or safety issues to your local municipality or bylaw office, and file a T2 application with the LTB if necessary.
5. Where can I find a full list of my tenant rights in Ontario?
   Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for a comprehensive overview.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• Landlords cannot legally retaliate against you for asking for repairs, reporting safety problems, or exercising your rights.
• Document your actions and know which forms to use at the Landlord and Tenant Board.
• Seek support early—many resources exist to help you protect your home and security.

Staying informed empowers you to handle difficult rental situations safely and confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – Rental dispute resolution and forms
• Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Renting in Ontario
• Local community legal clinics – Free or low-cost advice for tenants
• Tenant Rights in Ontario – Provincial tenant rights and responsibilities summary

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Government of Ontario

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