Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for New Tenants in Ontario

Starting a new tenancy in Ontario can feel overwhelming, especially with unfamiliar rules and responsibilities. This guide explains your fundamental tenant rights and obligations under Ontario law, helping you confidently settle into your new home and address any challenges you might face. Whether you're concerned about condition of the property, rent payments, or understanding deposits, this page ensures you have the information needed to advocate for yourself and live securely as a tenant in Ontario.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant in Ontario

Most tenants renting residential properties in Ontario are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1], often called the RTA. This law outlines what landlords and tenants can and cannot do, ensuring fair treatment and security of tenure. For a detailed overview, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Core Rights You Can Expect

• The right to a safe, habitable living space that meets health and safety standards
• Protection from illegal eviction or rent increases
• Privacy—landlords must provide notice before entering your unit
• Access to proper notice for any changes to your tenancy

In Ontario, tenants cannot be evicted without a legal reason, and all rental increases must follow specific rules set by the RTA.

Your Key Responsibilities as a Tenant

Alongside important rights, tenants have legal duties, including caring for the property and respecting their rental agreement. Ignoring these obligations can affect your ability to stay or renew your lease.

• Pay rent in full and on time—every month
• Maintain reasonable cleanliness of your unit
• Inform the landlord promptly of any repairs or problems
• Respect your neighbours' right to peace and quiet

If you want more details, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Deposits, Rent, and Rental Agreements

Before moving in, tenants usually pay a rent deposit (sometimes called a "last month's rent" deposit). In Ontario:

• Landlords cannot ask for a security deposit. Only a rent deposit (up to one month’s rent) is allowed.
• Deposits must be used for the last month’s rent—not for repairs or other damages.
• Always get a written receipt for your deposit.

Learn more with Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

When you sign a rental agreement (often called a lease), ensure that all promises made by the landlord are in writing. After you’ve signed, certain rules apply to issues like subletting, moving out, or renewals. For guidance after signing, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Health & Safety

Your landlord must keep your home in a good state of repair, no matter what your lease says. This includes heating, plumbing, appliances supplied with the unit, and maintaining the structure. If you’re facing hazards like mold, pests, or broken fixtures, your landlord is required to act promptly.

Familiarize yourself with Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more information on your right to a safe environment.

If something goes wrong:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the repair needed
• Keep copies of every message or notice you send
• If repairs aren’t done, you may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for help

Important Ontario Forms and How to Use Them

You may need to use certain official forms to request repairs, end your lease, or dispute rent increases. Here are the most common:

• N11: Agreement to End the Tenancy
  If you and your landlord mutually agree to terminate the tenancy, use the N11 Form. For example, if you need to move for a new job and your landlord agrees, you both sign this form to set an end date.
• N9: Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy
  Use the N9 Form to notify your landlord formally if you plan to move out at the end of a rental period. For instance, if your lease is ending and you decide not to renew, submit this form with proper notice (at least 60 days for most tenants).
• T6: Tenant Application About Maintenance
  If repairs are not done despite proper notice, file a T6 Form with the Landlord and Tenant Board. This might be necessary if leaky pipes or heating problems are not addressed even after you tell your landlord.

To file these forms or for support, visit the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario website.

Moving In: Inspections, Condition, and Your First Days

Inspect your new rental as soon as you get the keys and document its condition with photos or a checklist. Report any pre-existing damage immediately to your landlord in writing. This protects your rights when moving out and can help if there’s a disagreement over repairs.

Tip: Ask your landlord to complete a move-in inspection report together so you both agree on the property’s condition from day one.

Ready to look for your next home or compare options in different cities? All-in-one rental site for Canadian cities can help you search with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Rights in Ontario

1. What can a landlord ask for as a deposit in Ontario?
   Landlords may only request a rent deposit, typically for the last month’s rent—not a damage or security deposit. The deposit cannot be used for anything other than the final month’s rent.
2. How much notice do I need to give if I want to end my lease?
   Most tenants must provide at least 60 days’ written notice using the N9 form before ending their tenancy at the end of a rental period.
3. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs?
   First, inform your landlord in writing. If repairs are not made, you may file a T6 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to request an order for repairs or a rent abatement.
4. Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?
   No. Landlords must provide at least 90 days’ written notice before any rent increase, and increases must follow guidelines set in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights?
   Read the Tenant Rights in Ontario page for a comprehensive overview or visit the Landlord and Tenant Board’s website.

How To: Key Tenant Actions in Ontario

1. How do I submit a repair request to my landlord?
   Write a dated note describing the issue and send it to your landlord. Keep a copy for your records. If possible, use email for proof of delivery.
2. How do I properly give notice when ending my tenancy?
   Complete an N9 form, give it to your landlord at least 60 days before your lease ends (or as required), and keep proof of submission.
3. How can I file a complaint if my landlord is not respecting my rights?
   Collect documentation, fill in the appropriate application (such as a T2 or T6 form), and submit it to the Landlord and Tenant Board either by mail, in person, or online following the instructions on the LTB website.

Key Takeaways

• Ontario tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act and the Landlord and Tenant Board
• Know your obligations: pay rent on time and maintain a clean, safe home
• Document everything and use official forms when ending your lease or requesting repairs

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – forms, contact, and application info
• Ontario Government’s Renting Guide
• Tenant advocacy resources
• More in-depth: Tenant Rights in Ontario

1. Ontario, Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, S.O. 2006, c. 17. Available at: Residential Tenancies Act
2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario: https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/
3. Ontario Government Renting Guide: https://www.ontario.ca/page/renting-ontario-your-rights