When you decide to move out of a rental in Ontario, it's essential to understand the steps and legal requirements that follow after providing notice. Whether you're ending your lease due to a personal decision, discrimination, or accessibility issues, knowing what comes next will help protect your rights and ensure a smooth transition to your next home. This guide is for Ontario tenants and explains the process after you give notice, what your landlord can and cannot do, important forms, and key resources.

Legal Requirements for Giving Notice in Ontario

Tenants must provide written notice to their landlord when ending a tenancy. The most common notice is the Notice to Terminate a Tenancy (Form N9). This form is required for monthly tenancies and must be given at least 60 days before your intended move-out date. The last day of your tenancy should align with the end of a rental period unless you and your landlord agree otherwise.

• Form: N9 - Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy (download from the Landlord and Tenant Board)
• When to use: If you are on a month-to-month, fixed-term, or weekly lease and want to end your tenancy lawfully.
• How to use: Complete the N9 form and deliver it to your landlord via mail, in person, or other approved method. For example, if you want to move out on August 31, give notice by July 2.

What Happens After You Give Notice?

Once you've submitted notice, several key steps take place:

• Your tenancy continues until your move-out date. You must pay rent as usual and maintain the unit.
• Your landlord may show your unit to prospective tenants, but they must give you at least 24 hours' written notice and visit between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Prepare for moving out and arrange for any required repairs, as you must return the unit in a similar condition as when you moved in (except for normal wear and tear).
• Plan the final inspection and the return of your deposit. For detailed tips, check out Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Throughout this period, both tenant and landlord must follow the rules set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

Deposit Returns and the Final Inspection

Ontario landlords can only require a rent deposit (not a traditional security deposit). This deposit is typically used for the last month's rent. After you move out, the landlord cannot keep your deposit for damages or cleaning—except in certain rare cases, such as unpaid rent.

• For more legal insight on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• The law requires a final inspection, ideally done together with your landlord. For advice on preparing, read The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

Ensure you remove all your belongings and clean the unit as agreed. Take photos or videos of the property's condition to prevent disputes later.

If You've Faced Discrimination or Accessibility Issues

If your decision to give notice was influenced by discrimination or accessibility-related challenges, you can still file a complaint to the appropriate bodies. Ontario tenants are protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Landlords cannot evict or mistreat you based on race, ancestry, disability, family status, or other protected grounds.

• You may contact the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario if you experienced discrimination during your tenancy.
• For more information about rental rights, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Key Action Steps for a Smooth Move-Out

• Give proper written notice using Form N9.
• Continue paying rent and meet all rental obligations until your move-out.
• Arrange with your landlord for showings and the final inspection.
• Remove personal items and clean your unit before the move-out date.
• Request written confirmation from your landlord about the final status of your tenancy and any deposit return.

If disagreements arise after you give notice, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for dispute resolution.

You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme when you're ready to search for your next place.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice do I need to give to move out?
   Most Ontario tenants on a monthly lease must provide at least 60 days' written notice, ending on the last day of your rental period.
2. Will I get my last month’s rent deposit back?
   No, the last month’s rent deposit is applied to your final month of tenancy. However, if you overpaid or the landlord owes interest, you may receive a refund.
3. Can my landlord enter my apartment after I give notice?
   Yes, but they must give at least 24 hours' written notice and enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., mainly to show the unit to potential new tenants.
4. What if my landlord refuses to return any overpayments or tries to deduct for damages unfairly?
   If you disagree with deductions, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for assistance.
5. What should I do if I moved out because of discrimination or accessibility barriers?
   You can still file a complaint through the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

After giving notice in Ontario:

• Use the correct form and provide the required notice timing.
• Meet your obligations until the end of your tenancy.
• Understand your rights when it comes to deposits and the condition of your unit.

Being informed helps ensure a smooth, fair move-out and protects you if disputes arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – For tenancy disputes, applications, and forms.
• Ontario Government: Renting in Ontario - Your Rights
• Ontario Human Rights Commission – Rental Housing
• Learn more about Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario government)
2. LTB: Tenant and Landlord Forms
3. Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario

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