When the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) issues an order in your favour, you expect the dispute to be resolved. If your landlord doesn’t follow the LTB’s order—whether about repairs, returning deposits, or stopping illegal actions—it can be frustrating and stressful. In Ontario, tenants have options when an LTB order isn’t enforced. This guide will help you understand your next steps, available forms, and support resources.

Understanding LTB Orders and Enforcement Challenges

The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) resolves disputes between tenants and landlords under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. If you receive an order in your favour—such as a directive for repairs or a repayment of money—the LTB itself does not enforce it. That responsibility is left to the parties involved.

Why Might a Landlord Ignore an LTB Order?

• The landlord disputes the order and deliberately delays compliance
• Lack of awareness or misunderstanding about the order’s requirements
• Financial difficulty preventing payment or completion of repairs

Unfortunately, some tenants find that despite a clear LTB order, their landlord refuses to comply. In these cases, Ontario law gives you further tools to seek enforcement.

Legal Steps Tenants Can Take When an LTB Order Isn't Followed

If your landlord does not comply with an LTB order, you may need to pursue enforcement through the Ontario court system. This process can vary depending on whether the order is for payment of money, repairs, or other actions.

1. Enforcing a Money Judgment

If your LTB order states that your landlord must pay you money (such as returning a rental deposit or reimbursing expenses), you can file the order with the Ontario Small Claims Court:

• Obtain a Certified Copy: Ask the LTB for a certified copy of your order.
• File with Small Claims Court: Complete the court’s Enforcement Request (Form 20E), attaching your LTB order. The court can help enforce payment by actions like garnishing wages or seizing property.
• Fee Waiver: If you cannot afford court fees, you can apply for a fee waiver.

2. Enforcing Non-Monetary Orders (e.g., Repairs)

If the LTB ordered your landlord to do something else—like make repairs or stop an unlawful action—you may have to take them to the Superior Court of Justice for a contempt order. This step can be complex, and seeking legal guidance is recommended.

For issues like ongoing health or safety concerns, immediate action may also be available. Review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more on urgent circumstances.

3. Returning to the LTB

Sometimes, you may need to revisit the LTB if the landlord’s failure to comply leads to further problems (such as continued repairs not done or repeated entries without notice). The LTB’s official forms page lists applications for these situations, for example:

• Form T1: Tenant Application for a Rebate of Money the Landlord Owes – Used if the landlord owes you money not paid as ordered. Official Form T1
• Form T6: Tenant Application About Maintenance – If repairs are still needed, file a new T6. Official Form T6

Before filing, consider reviewing Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for practical advice.

Key Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Form T1 (Tenant Application for a Rebate): Use if a landlord owes you money under an LTB order but hasn’t paid. Include details and a copy of the LTB order.
• Form T6 (Tenant Application About Maintenance): If repairs ordered by the LTB are not done, file this form to request further action.
• Enforcement Request (Form 20E) via Small Claims Court: Use to legally enforce a money judgment from the LTB. Requires an official copy of your LTB order.

Important Reminders and Preventive Tips

• Always keep copies of all correspondence, orders, and communications
• If filing in court, gather proof of your landlord’s non-compliance (emails, photos, repair requests)
• Act quickly—there may be time limits for enforcement or new applications
• Know your rights by reviewing Tenant Rights in Ontario
• For general information about landlord and tenant roles, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained

For those searching for new accommodations or considering moving, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to explore your options with an interactive map and up-to-date listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if my landlord does not pay money they owe after an LTB order?
   You can file the LTB order with Small Claims Court using Enforcement Request (Form 20E) to pursue collection through court enforcement.
2. How do I enforce repairs or non-monetary orders?
   Non-monetary orders (such as making repairs) usually require action through the Superior Court of Justice or a follow-up application to the LTB.
3. Is there a time limit to enforce an LTB order?
   Yes. LTB orders for money can generally be enforced within two years in Small Claims Court. Act as soon as possible to avoid deadlines.
4. Can the LTB help if the landlord keeps breaking the same rule?
   You can file a new application (such as Form T6 or T2) if the landlord repeats unlawful behaviour.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• If your landlord doesn’t follow an LTB order, you have legal options to enforce it
• Monetary judgments can be enforced in Small Claims Court, while other orders may require further legal action
• Seek free help and use official forms to protect your rights

Knowing your rights—and acting quickly—makes a difference. Always check official sources and ask for guidance when in doubt.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – File applications, access forms, and general information
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – The main legislation covering Ontario tenants and landlords
• Steps to Justice: Housing Law (Community Legal Education Ontario) – Free, plain-language legal help for tenants
• Legal Aid Ontario – Support for low-income tenants

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1. Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06r17
3. Small Claims Court Enforcement Forms: https://www.ontariocourtforms.on.ca/en/small-claims-court-forms/
4. Fee Waiver Information: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-fee-waiver-court-and-tribunal-services

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