Tenant Rights in Ontario: What Every Renter Needs to Know

Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) provides strong protections for tenants. Whether you're dealing with rent increases, repairs, or eviction notices, knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself.

Rent Increase Rules

Ontario's rent increase guideline limits how much landlords can raise rent each year. In 2024, the guideline was 2.5%. Landlords must give 90 days' written notice using the proper N1 form. Rent control applies to most residential units built before November 15, 2018.

Your Right to Repairs

Landlords must maintain your rental unit in good repair and comply with all health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards. If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs, you can:

• File a T6 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
• Request a rent abatement for the period repairs weren't made
• In urgent cases, contact your local municipal bylaw office

Privacy Rights

Your landlord must give 24 hours' written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies. They can only enter between 8 AM and 8 PM and must have a valid reason (repairs, inspection, showing to prospective tenants).

Eviction Protections

A landlord cannot evict you without a proper notice and an LTB order. Illegal evictions — changing locks, removing belongings, or cutting off utilities — carry significant penalties. If your landlord is trying to evict you, get legal advice immediately.

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

The LTB is the tribunal that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants. Tenants can file applications for maintenance issues, illegal rent increases, harassment, and unlawful eviction. Most hearings are now conducted online.