Facing an eviction application can be stressful. If you are a tenant in Ontario, you have rights and steps you can take to respond, attend a hearing, and present your evidence to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). This guide explains practical actions: identifying the type of eviction, required timelines, which official forms to file, how to gather documents and witness statements, and what to expect at the hearing. It will also point you to official LTB forms and legislation and offer tips for communicating with your landlord and seeking legal help or community advocacy. Read on to learn how to protect your tenancy and respond effectively and on time.
What to do first
Read the notice or application carefully and check the reason the landlord gave. Confirm whether the landlord applied to the LTB and which application type was filed, then note any deadlines listed and the hearing date on the application[2]. Keep the original notice and any delivery receipts or emails. Do not ignore the paperwork — missing a deadline can limit your options.
- Check the deadline on the application and the hearing date, and mark them in your calendar.
- Keep records: save the lease, receipts, photos, messages and any repair or complaint logs.
- File a tenant response or required forms with the LTB by the stated deadline and serve a copy to the landlord.
- Contact free legal clinics, tenant groups, or Legal Aid if you need help understanding the application or completing forms.
Official forms and how to use them
Landlords file different application types with the LTB; common examples include applications for non-payment of rent or for termination for other reasons. Tenants respond using the LTB response process and the forms listed on the LTB forms page[1]. For example, if a landlord files an application alleging non-payment, you would review that application type on the LTB forms page, complete the tenant response as instructed, and submit it to the Board and the landlord.
Preparing evidence and witnesses
Plan how you will show your side at the hearing. Organize documents clearly and prepare a short timeline of events so the adjudicator can follow your account. If witnesses will speak on your behalf, get short written statements and up-to-date contact details.
- Gather documents: the lease, receipts, photos, repair requests, emails and texts that support your position.
- Create a timeline of key events, including dates for missed payments, repair requests, or notices.
- Collect witness contact details and written statements from neighbours, roommates or service providers if they support your case.
- Make a clear evidence bundle and copies for the landlord and the adjudicator.
At the hearing and after
Attend the hearing on the date and time given, arriving early or connecting to a virtual hearing platform as instructed. Be concise: present the facts, refer to specific documents, and answer the adjudicator's questions. If the Board issues an order, read it carefully — orders can require payment, allow the tenancy to continue, or end the tenancy and set a date to vacate. If you disagree with the decision, the LTB information pages explain options for review or appeal. For details on relevant legislation, consult the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[3].
If you need to find alternate housing quickly, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to review available listings and map-based search tools.
FAQ
- Can I stop an eviction after the landlord files an application?
- Yes, in many cases tenants can respond, present evidence, negotiate with the landlord, or comply with an order (for example, paying arrears) to avoid eviction; outcomes depend on the case and evidence.
- What forms do I need to file as a tenant?
- Tenants typically file a tenant response or the specific form listed by the LTB for the application type; check the LTB forms page to download and follow filing instructions[1].
- Where can I get help filling forms or preparing for a hearing?
- Contact community legal clinics, tenant advocacy groups, or Legal Aid Ontario for guidance; the LTB website also lists resources and information for self-represented parties.
How-To
- Gather documents and evidence: lease, photos, messages, receipts and repair records.
- File the tenant response form with the LTB and serve a copy on the landlord according to the instructions.
- Organize your evidence into a clear bundle and prepare a short timeline and witness notes.
- Attend the hearing and present your case clearly to the adjudicator, referring to specific documents.
- If the order requires payment or another action, comply or seek enforcement or review options listed by the LTB.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) - hearings and forms
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
- Ontario.ca - Renting and tenant information
