Top 50 Questions: Special Tenancy Situations in Ontario

Special Tenancy Situations Ontario published: June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
What is considered a special tenancy situation in Ontario?
Special situations include co-ops, care homes, roommate arrangements, sublets, assignments, sale of building, and unique eviction scenarios.
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Ontario?
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles residential tenancy disputes.
What is the main law for tenant rights in Ontario?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs most residential rental situations.
Are roommates covered by Ontario's tenancy laws?
Some roommates are covered if all are on the lease; otherwise, rights may differ. Individual agreements matter.
What happens if my landlord sells the building?
Your lease continues; you do not have to move unless you are lawfully evicted under the Act.
Can my landlord evict me if they or a family member want to move in?
Yes, with a proper notice (Form N12) and at least 60 days' notice, often with compensation.
What is Form N12 and when is it used?
Form N12 is for ending tenancy when the landlord or their family needs the unit. Used when giving a 60-day notice for personal use.
Can I challenge an N12 notice?
Yes, you can stay until the LTB makes a decision. You can dispute the notice at a hearing.
Does my landlord have to pay me compensation if I get an N12 notice?
Yes, typically one month's rent or an offer of another unit is required.
What is subletting and do I need landlord approval?
Subletting is letting someone else take over your unit while you return later. Written landlord consent is needed.
What is the difference between subletting and assigning a lease?
Assigning means the new tenant takes over your lease completely. Subletting is temporary; you return later.
How do I apply to assign my tenancy?
Use Form T1 and follow LTB instructions for seeking approval or resolving disputes.
Can my landlord refuse an assignment or sublet?
Landlords must have a reasonable reason to refuse or there may be legal consequences.
Are care homes covered by the Residential Tenancies Act?
Yes, special rules apply for care homes including care services and rent.
Is student housing covered under Ontario tenancy law?
Student housing off-campus is covered, but residence halls owned by schools are generally not.
What tenants are not covered by the Act?
If you share a kitchen or bathroom with the owner, or live in school residences, you may not be covered.
Can I sublet my place if I signed a fixed-term lease?
Yes, you can sublet or assign, but you need your landlord's written consent.
How do I add or remove a roommate legally?
You and your landlord should agree in writing. Consent may be needed to update the lease.
My roommate moved out. Am I responsible for the whole rent?
If you all signed one lease, yes. You share responsibility for total rent unless the lease changes.
What form is used to terminate tenancy early for abuse or safety reasons?
Form N15 is used for early termination due to domestic or sexual violence.
Does my landlord have to give notice to end my tenancy if I live in a care home?
Yes, notice periods depend on the reason but written notice is required.
What are my rights if my unit is being converted to condominiums?
Special protections may apply, including notice and in some cases, compensation. Check with the LTB.
Can my landlord evict me if they want to demolish or renovate the building?
Yes, but only with proper written notice (Form N13), and sometimes compensation is owed.
What is Form N13 and when is it used?
Form N13 is for ending a tenancy due to demolition, conversion, or major repairs needing vacancy. Used for 120-day notice.
Can I move back if I get an N13 notice for renovations?
You may have the right to return after renovations. Inform your landlord in writing before moving out.
What notice must my landlord give if they end my tenancy for landlord’s own use?
They must give at least 60 days’ notice with Form N12 and offer compensation.
Can I break my lease if I need to move for care or safety reasons?
Yes, with proper notice (Form N15) due to safety or violence, you can end your tenancy early.
Does my landlord need to approve all subtenants?
Yes, written approval is required but it cannot be unreasonably withheld.
What form do I use to tell my landlord about my intent to sublet?
There is no specific government form; give written notice outlining proposed subtenant and dates.
If I am in a co-op, am I covered by Residential Tenancies Act?
Most co-op members are not covered except in some non-profit co-ops for specific disputes involving eviction.
Can my landlord prohibit me from having guests or roommates?
Usually, landlords cannot ban guests or roommates without reasonable cause, unless lease says otherwise.
What happens if I share my unit with someone who isn’t on the lease?
You remain responsible for the lease; the other person may not have legal tenancy rights.
My rental is a mobile home. Am I protected?
Yes, mobile homes and land lease communities have special protections under the Act.
My rental is temporary (like seasonal accommodation). Am I covered by the Act?
Some temporary or seasonal rentals may not be covered. Check with the LTB about your situation.
What are my rights in a boarding or lodging situation?
If you share kitchen or bath with the owner, the Act may not apply. Otherwise, standard rights may apply.
How do I terminate my tenancy early if I find a new tenant?
Assign your tenancy with the landlord’s written consent using an assignment agreement.
If I move out before my lease ends, do I still pay rent?
Yes, unless the place is re-rented or you and your landlord come to another agreement.
Can my landlord increase my rent because of special circumstances?
Rent increases can only occur under law and with proper notice—special situations do not change this.
What if my landlord asks me to sign a new lease after selling the property?
You do not have to sign a new lease; your current lease and rights continue.
Can I be evicted for illegal acts of a roommate?
Everyone on the lease is responsible; you could face eviction if illegal acts occur in the unit.
Can I make my landlord let my partner move in?
Landlords generally cannot deny a partner joining you, unless prohibited by lease terms (e.g., overcrowding).
I am a senior: Are there any special tenancy protections for me?
Seniors in care homes have some extra protections under tenancy law, including longer notice and care standards.
How do I notify my landlord I am ending my tenancy due to violence?
Use Form N15 and provide it with 28 days’ notice for early termination if you experienced domestic or sexual violence.
Can my landlord require me to move temporarily for repairs?
Only if major repairs require vacancy and with proper notice (Form N13). Return rights may apply.
Where can I find all official landlord and tenant forms in Ontario?
All forms are on the LTB forms page.

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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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