Special Tenancy Situations in Ontario: Tenant Rights

Special Tenancy Situations Ontario published July 01, 2025 Flag of Ontario

Navigating your rights as a tenant in Ontario can be daunting, especially when faced with unique or uncommon tenancy situations. Understanding your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 can help ensure you're protected and confident in your living situation. This article covers key considerations and procedures for tenants in special circumstances across Ontario.

Challenging a Rent Increase

In Ontario, landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months and must provide at least 90 days' written notice. All rent increases are subject to government-set guidelines unless you reside in a newly constructed or substantially renovated property where first occupancy was from November 15, 2018, onward.

If you believe your rent increase is unfair or illegal, you can challenge it through the Landlord and Tenant Board. Begin by reviewing the notice for compliance and then, if necessary, file an application with the board. You can learn more about this process and your rights concerning rent increases by visiting our guide on Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Eviction Under Special Circumstances

Eviction can occur for several reasons, but your landlord must follow proper legal procedures and provide a valid reason. Whether it's for non-payment of rent, damage to the property, or the owner’s personal use, tenants have a right to challenge the eviction notice.

It's crucial to read your eviction notice carefully and understand your rights to dispute it at the Landlord and Tenant Board. This legal body governs and adjudicates disputes between landlords and tenants in Ontario, ensuring that both parties are treated fairly under the law.

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Maintenance and Repairs

Landlords have an obligation to maintain the rental premises in a good state of repair, fit for habitation, and compliant with health and safety regulations. As a tenant, you're entitled to timely repairs and can take action if these are neglected.

Begin by notifying your landlord of any required repairs in writing. Should the issues persist, tenants can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to seek a resolution. Access our resources on managing these common issues in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Rental Deposits

Tenants often need to pay a deposit when entering a new tenancy agreement. Understanding your rights regarding deposits is essential to prevent disputes or misunderstandings.

By law, your deposit should be no more than one month’s rent and is used as a last month’s payment. For more detailed information, explore our guide on Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Tenant Rights in Shared Accommodation

Tenants living in shared houses have the same rights as those in private rental units. All tenants must adhere to the terms of the lease agreement and respect each other's space and the property. If you find yourself in a dispute, consider mediation or reaching out to the Landlord and Tenant Board for assistance.

If you're seeking additional resources or guidance, consider using online platforms such as Houseme - your rental solution in Canada to find alternative accommodations or gather further support.

Tenant Rights in Ontario

For an exhaustive list of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in Ontario, refer to our detailed resource on Tenant Rights in Ontario.

  1. What should I do if my landlord increases the rent illegally? If you suspect an illegal rent increase, confirm the laws against the notification and timeline provided. File a dispute with the Landlord and Tenant Board if there is a violation.
  2. How do I handle maintenance issues the landlord ignores? Document all communications and issues, and notify your landlord in writing. If neglected, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to get the repairs facilitated.
  3. Can I end my rental agreement early? Some situations allow for breaking a lease, such as moving for employment or health reasons. Always provide proper notice and adhere to legal protocols documented in your lease agreement.
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Always ensure you maintain a paper trail of all correspondence with your landlord. This will support your case should any disputes arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

If you find yourself in need of extra support or information, consider contacting local tenant advocacy groups or legal clinics. Some useful resources include:

  1. How to challenge a rent increase in Ontario?
    1. Step 1: Review the notice carefully for legal compliance, including the proper timeline and any stated reasons for the increase.
    2. Step 2: Write a formal objection to your landlord if the increase doesn't comply with regulations.
    3. Step 3: If unresolved, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to officially dispute the increase.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "How to challenge a rent increase in Ontario", "step": [{ "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Step 1: Review the notice", "text": "Carefully check if your landlord's notice meets legal requirements." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Step 2: Respond in writing", "text": "Send a written objection within the permitted timeframe." }]}
  • Document all interactions with landlords to ensure a clear record for any disputes.
  • Be proactive in understanding your rights through resources such as tenant advocacy groups.
  • Seek early resolution by discussing issues directly with your landlord.
  1. Landlord and Tenant Board
  2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
  3. Tenant Rights in Ontario

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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