Top 50 Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Questions for Ontario Tenants

Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Ontario published June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
What is a legal precedent in Ontario tenant law?
A legal precedent is a previous decision by a court or tribunal that may guide how similar cases are decided in the future.
Which tribunal decides most tenant disputes in Ontario?
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles most residential tenancy disputes in Ontario.
Where can I view previous Landlord and Tenant Board decisions?
LTB decisions are available on CanLII, a free legal database.
How does a precedent affect my case?
Precedents can help guide the LTB but each case is decided on its own facts.
What law governs landlord-tenant matters in Ontario?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) governs these matters.
Are LTB case summaries publicly available?
Yes, summaries and full decisions are posted on CanLII and the LTB website.
Can tenants use past cases to support their arguments?
Yes, tenants can reference previous LTB decisions similar to their situation.
Do I need a lawyer to use case precedents at my hearing?
No, but you may find it helpful to seek legal advice for complex issues.
What are the most common legal issues at the LTB?
Common issues include rent increases, evictions, repairs, and deposit returns.
Are LTB decisions final?
Most are final, but you can request a review or file an appeal in limited circumstances.
How do I find cases about illegal rent increases?
Search for "rent increase" LTB decisions on CanLII.
How can I find case summaries about eviction notices?
CanLII provides searchable case summaries on "eviction notice" topics.
What official forms relate to LTB legal proceedings?
Common forms include N4 (Notice to End Tenancy for Non-Payment) and T2 (Tenant Application about Maintenance).
What is Form N4 and when is it used?
N4 is served by landlords to give notice for non-payment of rent; more info at LTB forms.
What is Form T2 and when should a tenant use it?
Tenants use T2 to apply if a landlord is not meeting obligations, like repairs; found at LTB forms.
Can a precedent guarantee my case will win?
No; the Board considers each case individually, though precedents can influence decisions.
What if I can’t find a case exactly like mine?
Use similar cases to help support your arguments.
Is case law more important than the RTA?
The RTA takes priority, but case law interprets and clarifies the Act.
Can a landlord appeal an LTB decision?
Yes, both tenants and landlords can seek a review or appeal under certain conditions.
How do I cite a previous LTB decision?
Include the decision number and date, found in the written decision or CanLII document.
Can I attend an LTB hearing to learn more?
Yes, LTB hearings are open to the public unless privacy is required.
What is a "leading case"?
A leading case is a well-recognized decision that sets a strong precedent for future cases.
How far back are LTB decisions considered?
Decisions from several years ago can still be cited, but more recent cases are preferred.
What if LTB decisions are inconsistent?
You can point out inconsistencies and ask the adjudicator to consider the logic behind cases.
Can higher court rulings affect tenant cases?
Yes, Ontario Superior Court and Divisional Court decisions can influence LTB rulings.
Are there any well-known Ontario tenant cases?
Yes, notable cases like Ball v. Metro Capital Property have shaped rent reduction law.
Can I get help with legal research as a tenant?
Yes, community legal clinics and Tenant Duty Counsel services can help.
What is a "summary" of a case?
A summary explains the main facts, decision, and significance of a case in simple terms.
Where do I submit my forms for an LTB hearing?
Submit forms online, by mail, or in person at the LTB.
What happens after I submit a tenant application form?
The LTB schedules a hearing and notifies the parties of the date and next steps.
What is a T6 form and when do I use it?
Form T6 is used to apply about maintenance or repair problems affecting your rental unit (LTB forms).
Do I need to cite case law in my LTB application?
It’s not required, but citing helpful decisions can support your argument.
How do I find the LTB’s decision on my case?
The LTB sends written decisions by mail or email. You can also check with the Board directly.
Can tenants ask for a review of an LTB decision?
Yes, use Form R2: Request to Review an Order (LTB forms).
What should I include in my written submissions?
Include facts, any relevant case law or precedents, and specify your requested outcome.
Can I access case summaries for other provinces?
Yes, CanLII also covers other jurisdictions, but only Ontario decisions are binding at the LTB.
Are court decisions more important than LTB cases?
Yes, higher court decisions take priority over LTB rulings if there is a conflict.
How do I know if a precedent is still current?
Look for recent decisions or legal updates that confirm the precedent is still followed.
Where can I get assistance interpreting a legal case?
Contact a community legal clinic or Tenant Duty Counsel for help.
Can tribunals ignore past precedents?
Yes, if facts are different or the law has changed, but they should explain their reasoning.
What is a “distinguished” case?
It's when a decision isn’t followed because the facts are different from a previous case.
If my hearing is online, how do I submit my case law?
You can file your documents by email or upload them as directed by the LTB.
Can I appeal a Divisional Court decision?
Yes, appeals may go to the Ontario Court of Appeal, but this is rare for tenancy cases.
Do I need to submit case law with my application form?
Not required, but you can attach supporting documents for the hearing.
Is it helpful to highlight similarities to my situation in past cases?
Yes, drawing parallels can strengthen your position at the hearing.
Can I ask for a summary of a complicated LTB case?
Yes, legal clinics often help explain decisions in simpler terms.
How soon after my hearing is a decision released?
Most LTB decisions are released within a few weeks of the hearing date.
What if I disagree with the facts stated in a past case?
You can explain how your situation is different from the case cited.
Can decisions from outside Ontario help my case?
You can use them as persuasive, but they’re not binding in Ontario.
Where can I read about tenants’ rights based on legal cases?
The LTB’s website and CanLII have cases relating to tenant rights and obligations.

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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 tenants everywhere.

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