Tenant Rights During Condo Conversion in Ontario

If you’re renting in Ontario, it’s important to know your rights when your building is sold or converted into condominiums. Condo conversions are becoming more common, and Ontario’s laws provide tenants with specific protections and notice requirements during this process. This guide explains who is affected, the steps your landlord must take, and what options tenants have.

What Is a Condo Conversion?

A condo conversion happens when a rental apartment building is legally changed into individual condominium units, which can then be sold. This transition can affect all tenants in the building, especially if units are sold to new owners who plan to move in.

Ontario Tenant Protections During Condo Conversion

Ontario tenants are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. When a landlord wants to convert a building from rental units to condominiums, they must comply with strict rules regarding notices and tenant rights.

• Rental agreements remain valid even after conversion until legal notice is given.
• Eviction is not automatic — landlords must follow official processes and provide legal notice.
• Tenants are generally entitled to compensation or assistance if required to move.

For more about landlord and tenant roles at different rental stages, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Notice Requirements for Ending Tenancies

The landlord can only end tenancies for a condo conversion in specific circumstances, such as if a purchaser or their family member intends to move in or if the unit will be used for another purpose as allowed by law.

• If the landlord or buyer wants to move in, they must use the proper form and provide at least 60 days’ notice before the end of a rental period.
• Landlords must serve the official N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit. This form is required if the purchaser plans to occupy the unit.
• Other eviction grounds—such as renovations—use different forms and rules.

Official Forms Used in Condo Conversion Situations

Here are the most common forms tenants might encounter:

• N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit
  Download the N12 form from the Landlord and Tenant Board.
  Example: You receive an N12 form because the buyer of your unit wants to live there personally.
• T5: Application About Tenant Rights
  Download the T5 Application.
  Example: If you believe your landlord has ended your tenancy in bad faith (e.g., plans to sell, not occupy), file a T5 to seek compensation or the right to return.

If you receive any official notice, read it carefully and keep a copy. These documents contain important deadlines and legal details about your situation.

Compensation Rules Under Ontario Law

If you’re evicted due to a condo conversion, you may be entitled to compensation. Ontario law generally requires the landlord or purchaser to provide either:

• One month’s rent as compensation, or
• Offer an alternate rental unit (if available),

before the termination date on your N12 notice.
See: Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full overview of your protections.

Your Options If You Get a Notice

• Negotiate: You can try to negotiate the terms of your move-out and compensation directly with your landlord.
• Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board: If you think the N12 notice is invalid or given in bad faith, you can file a T5 application to the Landlord and Tenant Board.
• Stay Until the Date on the Notice: You do not need to leave before the notice expires. Only a Board order can legally require you to move out.

Other Important Considerations

• Rental deposit rules, rent increases, and maintenance obligations remain the same during and after conversion until you’re given proper notice. For common questions, read Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Need to find a new place? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and compare options across Ontario’s cities.

FAQs: Condo Conversion for Tenants

1. Can I be evicted immediately if my building turns into condos?
   No. Landlords must follow legal procedures and give at least 60 days’ notice with an official form (N12) before you may be required to leave.
2. What compensation am I entitled to if I must leave?
   You are usually entitled to one month’s rent or an alternate unit (if available) before you move out, as required by Ontario law.
3. If the new owner tries to raise my rent, is this allowed?
   No. Rent controls and legal limits remain in effect. Only legal rent increases are permitted under Ontario law.
4. Do I have to move right away after getting an N12?
   No. You have the right to stay until the end of the notice period. If you disagree with the notice, you can apply to the Board for a hearing.
5. Where can I get help with my situation?
   You can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or a local tenant advocacy service for assistance (see resources below).

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Tenants in condo conversions are protected by Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act.
• You have rights to proper notice, compensation, and Tribunal review before being required to vacate.
• Always review official forms carefully, seek advice if you have concerns, and consider filing with the Landlord and Tenant Board if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board – Official tribunal for all tenancy matters, forms, and applications.
• Contact the LTB – For questions and guidance.
• Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) – Legal support and tenant information.
• Ontario Government Rental Housing Guide – Detailed guidance for tenants facing major changes.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Government of Ontario

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