What is the main law protecting tenants in Ontario?

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects tenants’ rights and establishes rules for rent, deposits, repairs, and ending a lease in Ontario.

Is my landlord allowed to enter my unit anytime?

No. The landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.

Can I refuse to pay rent if repairs aren’t done?

You must keep paying rent. Instead, use Form T6 to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if repairs are not made.

How much notice do I need to provide to move out?

For most month-to-month tenancies in Ontario, you must give at least 60 days' notice with Form N9.

Where do I get help if I think my rights are violated?

Reach out to the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario or a community legal clinic for support and advice.

Top 5 Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Ontario

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Ontario published July 01, 2025

Understanding your tenant rights and responsibilities is crucial to enjoying a safe and stable rental experience in Ontario. Whether you’re new to renting or have years of experience, being informed helps you prevent disputes and respond confidently to issues like rent increases, repairs, or ending your lease. This guide breaks down Ontario’s key rules, omits legal jargon, and highlights steps every tenant should take to protect themselves under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹.

1. Know Your Basic Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant in Ontario, you are protected by a comprehensive set of legal rights, including the right to a safe home and fair treatment. You are also responsible for certain obligations, such as paying rent on time and keeping your unit reasonably clean.

You can expect repairs and maintenance to be addressed by your landlord.
Your landlord must not harass you or enter your unit without proper notice (generally 24 hours unless it’s an emergency).
Tenants must not engage in illegal acts on the property or cause undue damage beyond normal wear and tear.

For a deeper dive on rights and duties for both parties, see the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained page.

2. Understand Rent Payments, Deposits, and Increases

Paying rent is a tenant’s primary obligation, but you have rights around how rent is set, when it can increase, and the types of deposits landlords can request.

Rental deposits in Ontario can only cover the last month’s rent, not security for damages. Landlords cannot demand post-dated cheques but may request them.
Rent can typically only be increased once every 12 months, and only with a 90-day written notice using Form N1 (Notice of Rent Increase (Form N1))².
When receiving a rent increase, check if it follows provincial rent guidelines and is delivered with the proper form.

Learn more about deposits in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Repairs, Maintenance, and Health & Safety

You are entitled to live in a well-maintained, healthy space. Landlords are required to keep the rental unit and building in good repair, including all essential services like heat, water, and electricity. Tenants should promptly inform landlords about any issues.

For urgent problems (like loss of heat in winter), landlords must act promptly. Tenants can also apply directly to the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario if necessary.
If repairs aren’t made, complete and submit Tenant Application About Maintenance (Form T6) to the Board to request an order for repairs or compensation.

See Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more details.

4. Ending Your Tenancy or Moving Out

There are specific rules in Ontario about how and when a tenant can end a tenancy or move out:

To officially give notice, use Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9). You must give at least 60 days’ notice for most month-to-month tenancies.
If your landlord asks you to leave, ensure they follow correct process (including serving an official Board notice). Evictions must be ordered by the Landlord and Tenant Board.

5. Where to Find Reliable Help and Legal Support

If you face disputes, rent increases, or notices from your landlord, Ontario offers many support options:

The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario resolves most landlord–tenant issues, from rent problems to eviction hearings.
Community legal clinics can provide advice and representation if you need help understanding your rights or submitting forms.
Stay informed with up-to-date facts at Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Looking for a new place? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

What is the main law protecting tenants in Ontario?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects most tenants’ rights and sets out rules for rent, repairs, deposits, and ending tenancies.
Is my landlord allowed to enter my unit anytime?
No. Unless there’s an emergency, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit.
Can I refuse to pay rent if repairs aren’t done?
No. You must keep paying rent. Instead, fill out Form T6 and apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve the repair issue.
How much notice do I need to provide to move out?
You usually need to give at least 60 days’ notice using Form N9 for a month-to-month rental.
Where do I get help if I think my rights are violated?
Contact your local community legal clinic or the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario for advice or to file an application.

How do I apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for repairs?
Step 1: Fill out the Tenant Application About Maintenance (Form T6).
Step 2: Include documentation (photos, letters, repair requests).
Step 3: Submit the form to the Landlord and Tenant Board (online, by mail, or in person).
Step 4: Attend your hearing if scheduled.
Step 5: Follow Board’s instructions for any additional next steps.
How do I give my landlord proper notice to move out?
Step 1: Get Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy (Form N9).
Step 2: Complete and sign the form.
Step 3: Deliver it to your landlord at least 60 days before your move-out date.
Step 4: Keep a copy for your records.
How do I dispute an illegal rent increase?
Step 1: Review the notice and check if it follows guideline limits.
Step 2: If you believe it’s not valid, apply to the Board using the Tenant Application About an Increase Above the Guideline (Form T1).
Step 3: Submit evidence and attend the scheduled hearing.

Key Takeaways

Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and respond promptly to notices and repair issues.
Use official forms, keep records, and contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for disputes or legal help.
Stay informed—resources like Tenant Rights in Ontario can help you keep up with your obligations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – file applications, find forms, and view rights info
Ontario Tenants Rights: Community Legal Clinics – get free local advice and possible representation
Ontario’s Rental Housing Rights – overview and step-by-step guides for tenants
Tenant Rights in Ontario – facts and quick answers