Step-by-Step Guidance for Tenants Facing Eviction in Ontario

Evictions Ontario published July 01, 2025 Flag of Ontario

Are you a tenant in Ontario facing eviction, or worried that your landlord may try to evict you? Understanding the eviction process is crucial—Ontario’s laws offer tenants specific rights and protections, and being informed will help you take the right steps, respond to eviction notices, and protect your home. This article offers a clear, step-by-step guide to help Ontario tenants handle eviction issues with confidence.

Understanding the Eviction Process in Ontario

In Ontario, evictions are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 [1]. Landlords must follow specific procedures, and tenants have the right to receive proper notice and to respond. The process begins with a written notice, but you do not have to move out immediately when you receive one.

  • Evictions are overseen by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario [2].
  • Legal grounds for eviction must be stated in the notice (e.g., late rent, property damage, landlord wants to move in).
  • All notices and applications must use official Ontario forms.

Types of Eviction Notices in Ontario

Landlords typically start the process by serving one of these main forms:

  • Form N4: Notice to End your Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent
    This is served if you owe rent. For example, if you miss rent for June, your landlord may give you Form N4. You have 14 days to pay the full rent owed or move out. View the official form on the LTB forms page [3].
  • Form N5: Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage, or Overcrowding
    If the issue is noise complaints or damage, landlords use Form N5. You have seven days to correct the issue.
  • Form N12: Notice for Landlord’s Own Use
    This form is for cases where the landlord, or an immediate family member, plans to move into the unit. Tenants must receive at least 60 days' notice, with the termination date at the end of a rental period.
  • Form N13: Notice for Repairs or Renovations
    Used when the landlord needs to evict tenants for major repairs or renovations that require the unit to be empty. Tenants are entitled to return when work is completed.

Remember: An eviction notice does not mean you must leave immediately. It is the start of a process where you have rights and options.

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Your Rights and Responsibilities During Eviction

Both landlords and tenants have clear obligations. Know these key rights:

  • You must receive the notice in writing, using the correct form.
  • You have the right to a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board before eviction is enforced, unless you agree to move out.
  • You can pay rent or fix issues (where permitted) after receiving a notice to prevent eviction.
  • If you receive a notice for landlord’s own use or major repairs, you may be eligible for compensation.

For a general overview of tenant and landlord obligations, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Happens After the Notice Period?

If you do not move or resolve the issue, your landlord can apply to the LTB with Form L1 (Application to Evict a Tenant for Non-payment of Rent) or a related form, depending on the reason. You will get a Notice of Hearing and have the chance to present your side.

Always attend the LTB hearing if you wish to challenge the eviction. Missing the hearing may result in an eviction order against you, even if you have a good reason for missing rent or causing a disturbance.

If your hearing is scheduled, prepare evidence (receipts, communications, photos), and consider free legal help for tenants. The Board will make a decision after both sides are heard.

To learn more about issues tenants face beyond eviction, check out Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Key Forms and What to Do With Them

  • Form N4 (Notice to End your Tenancy for Non-Payment of Rent): If you’re served this, pay the full rent within the notice period or contact your landlord to discuss arrangements.
    Official Form: LTB Tenant Forms Download [3]
  • Form L1 (Application to Evict a Tenant for Non-Payment of Rent): Used by the landlord if you do not act on the N4. Attend your hearing to present your case.
  • Tenant Defence Options: Tenants can respond to eviction applications with their own forms (e.g., Tenant’s Response to an Application, T5 for harassment or bad faith).

Always use the latest official forms from the LTB’s forms page [3], and consider seeking legal help for completing them properly.

What Tenants Need to Know After Receiving an Eviction Notice

After receiving a notice:

  • Read it carefully and check dates.
  • Gather any evidence or documentation.
  • Consider mediation or legal advice.
  • Prepare your case for the LTB hearing.

Learning "What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement" can help you anticipate and avoid many disputes leading to eviction.

Where to Find More Rental Options

For tenants considering a move or needing backup plans during a dispute, you can browse apartments for rent in Canada for peace of mind and new possibilities.

Understand Your Province’s Tenant Rights

For a complete picture of tenant protections, compensation rights, and dispute resolution procedures, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

FAQ: Tenants and Eviction in Ontario

  1. Can my landlord evict me without a written notice in Ontario?
    No. Your landlord must always provide you with a proper, written notice using the correct form prescribed by Ontario law.
  2. What should I do if I disagree with the reason for eviction?
    You have the right to attend the Landlord and Tenant Board hearing, where you can present your side and offer evidence. You can also seek legal advice or mediation services.
  3. Can I be evicted for late rent if I pay before the hearing?
    If you pay your full rent owing, including any charges, within the timelines set out in the N4 notice, the eviction may be halted. Even after an application, payment may resolve the matter in many cases.
  4. Am I entitled to compensation if my landlord ends my tenancy for their own use?
    Yes. In Ontario, tenants must receive either compensation (usually one month’s rent) or a suitable alternative rental unit in most "own use" eviction cases.
  5. Where can I get help if I can’t afford a lawyer?
    Free legal clinics and tenant advocacy groups can help. See the Resources section below.

How To: Steps for Tenants Facing Eviction in Ontario

  1. How to respond to an eviction notice for non-payment of rent?
    Pay the total rent owing within the notice period or speak with your landlord about repayment options. Keep all communication in writing.
  2. How to prepare for an LTB eviction hearing?
    Gather documents like receipts, communications, and any proof of repairs or disagreements. Attend your scheduled hearing and, if possible, get legal help.
  3. How to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board as a tenant?
    Identify the right form for your situation (such as a T2 for tenant rights violations), fill it out, and submit it online or at an LTB office.
  4. How to challenge an eviction for landlord’s own use?
    Check the validity of your landlord’s claim, ensure compensation is offered, and prepare to present your case at the LTB. Document any evidence of potential bad faith.

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

  • Eviction is a legal process—the notice is just the first step, and you always have a chance to challenge or resolve it.
  • Respond quickly to official notices, gather evidence, and attend your LTB hearing.
  • Get help early—legal clinics, tenant groups, and government resources are available at little or no cost.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB)
  3. Official LTB Forms and Applications

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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 renters everywhere.

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