When your landlord lists or sells the building, it can be stressful. Tenants and renters in Ontario have clear rights under provincial law that protect their tenancy during and after a sale. This guide explains what happens to your lease, how showings must be handled, what to do if a purchaser says they need the unit, and the official forms and steps you can use to protect your rights. Read this to learn the practical steps, timelines and supports available so you can respond calmly, document interactions, and seek help if a notice seems improper.
Your rights when the landlord sells
In Ontario, a sale does not automatically end an existing tenancy: the purchaser generally takes the property subject to the existing lease or rental agreement. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out the rules for notices, entry, and reasons a landlord or purchaser can ask for possession.[1]
Showings and access during a sale
Your landlord or their agent may show the unit to prospective buyers, but they must follow the rules in the Act: provide written notice in advance and schedule visits at reasonable times. In practice, landlords usually give 24 hours written notice and showings occur between reasonable hours unless you agree otherwise. You may refuse unreasonable times but should document any concerns.
If a purchaser wants to occupy the unit
If a buyer wants to live in the unit themself (or a close family member), the landlord or purchaser must use the correct written notice and may need to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board. In Ontario that is commonly done with the standard notice the Board recognizes; tenants can challenge the notice at the Board if they believe the reason is not genuine or the required process was not followed.[2][3]
What to do if you're asked to leave or shown the unit
- Read any written notice carefully and keep the original or a photographed copy.
- Keep dated records: texts, emails, photos, receipts and a log of showings and conversations.
- Ask the landlord for proof if they claim a purchaser will occupy the unit, and keep any written statements or purchase agreements they provide.
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or tenant advice services if you want to dispute a notice or need help understanding next steps.
Moving out and deposits
If you do decide to move, follow the proper procedures for ending a tenancy and returning keys. Note that deposits and last-months-rent rules are governed by Ontario law; for details on how deposits work and how to get them back, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. If you need to find a new place quickly, consider looking for listings; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you search available units and compare listings by neighbourhood and price.
FAQ
- Can a new owner force me to move when they buy the building?
- No. A sale does not automatically end your tenancy; the purchaser generally becomes the new landlord and must follow the Residential Tenancies Act process to end a tenancy.
- What notice must I be given for showings?
- Landlords should provide written notice in advance and arrange showings at reasonable times; in most cases 24 hours written notice is standard practice.
- I was served a notice saying the purchaser needs the unit. What can I do?
- You can request documentary proof, keep records, and apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to dispute the notice if you believe it is not genuine or the process was not followed.
How-To
- Read the notice and confirm which official form or reason is quoted.
- Collect evidence: save emails, take dated photos, and keep a written log of showings and conversations.
- Ask the landlord for proof that a purchaser intends to occupy the unit and for timelines they expect.
- If you dispute the notice, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and bring your records to the hearing.
- If you must move, follow end-of-tenancy steps, protect your deposit, and document the final inspection.
Key Takeaways
- Your tenancy stays in place after a sale unless ended through the correct legal process.
- Always keep written records and copies of notices, communications and showings.
- If in doubt, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board to learn how to challenge a notice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario) — forms, applications and hearing information
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — full legislation on e-Laws
- Ontario renters' rights — practical information for tenants
