Can my landlord evict me without the LTB?

No. A landlord needs an LTB order, and only the Sheriff can enforce it. Changing locks or removing belongings is illegal, and you can apply to the LTB for remedies if it happens.

I got an N12 — do I have to move?

No. An N-form is a notice, not an order. If you do not leave, the landlord must apply to the LTB and you are entitled to a hearing where you can contest it.

How much can rent go up?

Ontario sets an annual rent increase guideline, and increases above it require an LTB application. Some units are exempt from the guideline depending on first occupancy date — check whether yours is.

Do I need a lawyer or paralegal?

Not required. Licensed paralegals commonly appear at the LTB at lower cost than lawyers, and tenant duty counsel and legal clinics assist free of charge.

Can I withhold rent over repairs?

That is risky and can lead to eviction. The correct route is a T6 application for an abatement rather than self-help. Get advice first.

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario — Evictions, Rent & Repairs

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

The Landlord and Tenant Board decides residential tenancy disputes in Ontario under the Residential Tenancies Act. A landlord cannot lawfully evict you without an LTB order and, after that, only the Sheriff can enforce it — a notice (an N-form) is not an eviction. Not attending your hearing is the single most common reason tenants lose cases they could have won.

What it does

Decides eviction applications and tenant applications
Rules on rent increases above the guideline
Orders repairs, rent abatements and remedies for interference
Resolves illegal-charge and deposit disputes

Matters it hears

Non-payment of rent (L1) and eviction applications
Landlord's own use / renovation evictions (N12, N13)
Maintenance, repairs and vital services (T6)
Harassment and interference with enjoyment (T2)
Illegal rent increases and charges (T1)
Above-guideline rent increase applications

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Divisional Court (Ontario).

LTB orders may be appealed to the Divisional Court on a question of law, and the LTB itself can review an order in defined circumstances. Both have short deadlines.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord evict me without the LTB?: No. A landlord needs an LTB order, and only the Sheriff can enforce it. Changing locks or removing belongings is illegal, and you can apply to the LTB for remedies if it happens.
I got an N12 — do I have to move?: No. An N-form is a notice, not an order. If you do not leave, the landlord must apply to the LTB and you are entitled to a hearing where you can contest it.
How much can rent go up?: Ontario sets an annual rent increase guideline, and increases above it require an LTB application. Some units are exempt from the guideline depending on first occupancy date — check whether yours is.
Do I need a lawyer or paralegal?: Not required. Licensed paralegals commonly appear at the LTB at lower cost than lawyers, and tenant duty counsel and legal clinics assist free of charge.
Can I withhold rent over repairs?: That is risky and can lead to eviction. The correct route is a T6 application for an abatement rather than self-help. Get advice first.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.