Key takeaways
- Try to solve it in writing first, but don’t wait too long.
- Since July 1, 2026, you have only 15 days to request a review of an order.
- At an arrears hearing on a new application, pay half of the arrears 7 days before if you want to raise other issues.
- Free legal help is available at clinics and through tenant duty counsel.
In this chapter
14.1 Common Disputes Between Tenants and Landlords14.2 The Role of the Landlord and Tenant Board14.3 When to File an Application14.4 What to Expect at the Hearing14.5 Enforcing a Decision14.6 Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution14.7 Legal Resources and Tenant Support14.8 Final Thoughts on Tenant DisputesIllustrative Examples
Resolve a rental disagreement
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DescribeWrite down the issue
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DiscussCommunicate clearly
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RecordSave responses
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Get helpUse LTB or legal resources
Even in the best-managed rental situations, disputes can arise. Whether it’s about late repairs, unauthorized entries, illegal rent increases, or eviction threats, tenants have the right to challenge unfair treatment and protect their housing through Ontario’s legal system.
This chapter outlines the formal process for resolving disputes, explains the types of issues you can take to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), and guides you through the application, hearing, and enforcement stages. Understanding your rights and how the system works will help you advocate for yourself confidently and effectively.
14.1 Common Disputes Between Tenants and Landlords
The most frequent disputes in Ontario fall into the following categories:
- Maintenance neglect: Landlord ignores repair requests or refuses to address mold, pests, leaks, or broken appliances
- Illegal rent increases: Rent raised without proper notice or above legal limits
- Privacy violations: Entry without 24 hours’ written notice or outside legal hours
- Eviction threats: Landlord issues improper notices or retaliates after complaints
- Deposit abuse: Landlord charges illegal deposits or won’t apply your rent deposit to your last month
- Harassment or discrimination: Landlord threatens, intimidates, or treats the tenant unfairly based on personal factors
Before taking legal action, tenants are expected to:
- Attempt to resolve the issue with their landlord directly
- Keep a record of all communications and attempted solutions
- Use written formats (email or letter) whenever possible
14.2 The Role of the Landlord and Tenant Board
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is a specialized tribunal established under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). It provides a fair and accessible way for tenants and landlords to resolve disputes without going to court.
The LTB can:
- Hear complaints and applications from both tenants and landlords
- Issue legally binding orders regarding rent, maintenance, evictions, and more
- Offer mediation services
- Enforce rights and responsibilities under the RTA
The LTB does not provide legal advice. However, it does offer detailed information, standard forms, and procedural guidance.
Hearings can be held:
- In person at a tribunal location
- Virtually by Zoom or telephone
In writing (in limited cases)
14.3 When to File an Application
If your landlord has failed to uphold their legal responsibilities and informal communication has not resolved the problem, you may file an application with the LTB. There are several types of applications depending on the issue:
Visual guide · Rentals
Which tenant application?
| Form | Used for |
|---|---|
| T1 | Refund of illegal rent or charges |
| T2 | Tenant rights: harassment, illegal entry, interference |
| T3 | Rent reduction for reduced services or facilities |
| T5 | Notice given in bad faith |
| T6 | Maintenance and repairs |
| A2 | Sublet or assignment problems |
Filing Process:
1. Choose the correct current form, available on the Tribunals Ontario Portal and LTB website.
2. Pay the filing fee (fee waivers are available for low-income applicants). 3. Submit the application as the LTB directs, usually online through the Portal.
4. Follow the LTB’s instructions on giving your landlord the application and notice of hearing, and file any certificate of service.
5. Receive a hearing date and instructions from the LTB.
Documentation is crucial. Save emails, photos, text messages, letters, notices, receipts, and repair logs.
The tribunal path
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Try to resolveIn writing
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FileCorrect form and fee
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PrepareOrganize evidence
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HearingVideo, phone or in person
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OrderRead it right away
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ReviewWithin 15 days if needed
Visual guide · Rental guide
Which form fits?
| Problem | Tenant form |
|---|---|
| Illegal charges | T1 |
| Harassment or illegal entry | T2 |
| Bad-faith eviction | T5 |
| Repairs | T6 |
14.4 What to Expect at the Hearing
LTB hearings are formal but tenant-friendly. You may represent yourself or bring a lawyer, licensed paralegal, or tenant advocate.
Hearing Format:
- The adjudicator (board member) oversees the process.
- Both parties can present evidence, ask questions, and explain their case.
- Each side may submit documents ahead of time and make oral arguments.
- Witnesses may be called.
- The adjudicator may ask clarifying questions.
After the hearing:
- A written decision, called an order, is issued.
- This may be given at the end of the hearing or mailed within a few days.
If you cannot attend on the assigned date, ask right away about rescheduling. Do not simply stay away.
If your landlord fails to appear, the hearing can proceed without them and may result in a decision in your favour.
Bring to your hearing
14.5 Enforcing a Decision
The LTB’s decision is binding, but the Board does not physically enforce it. You may need to take further action if the landlord does not comply.
Example Enforcement Scenarios:
- Unpaid compensation: File the order with Small Claims Court to recover money
- Uncompleted repairs: Report the issue to the city’s property standards or bylaw department
- Eviction orders: Enforced by the Sheriff’s Office, not the landlord
Always request proof of enforcement or compliance. Keep copies of all follow-up communications and take additional steps if necessary.
Before your hearing
14.6 Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
The LTB offers free mediation services, available before or during a scheduled hearing.
Mediation can be a helpful way to reach an agreement without a formal ruling.
Mediators:
- Are neutral professionals, not judges
- Help both parties understand each other’s position
- Aim to resolve disputes through compromise
- Can help you avoid a public hearing or future tension
If you reach an agreement in mediation, it is signed, and it is binding. Read it carefully before you sign.
Mediation is optional, and you do not lose your rights by choosing to go straight to a hearing instead.
Mediation at the LTB
What it isA Board mediator helps both sides reach an agreement.
Why it mattersIt can be faster and less stressful than a hearing.
What to doRead any settlement carefully before you sign.
14.7 Legal Resources and Tenant Support
If you are unsure of how to proceed or need legal help, there are free or low-cost options available to tenants in Ontario.
Where to Get Help:
- Community Legal Clinics: Free legal services for eligible low-income tenants. Find your local clinic at legalaid.on.ca.
- ACTO (Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario): Offers legal education and support.
- Tenant Duty Counsel: Available at many LTB hearing locations to provide last-minute legal guidance.
- Legal Aid Ontario: May assist eligible tenants; call 1-800-668-8258.
Visual guide · Rentals
Key deadlines
| Step | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Pay N4 arrears | At least 7 days from the notice |
| Half arrears, issue description | 7 days before hearing |
| Request a review | 15 days from the order, unless extended |
| T5, bad faith | 2 years after moving out, or 6 months after renovations end if later |
| T1, T2, T6 | Generally one year |
14.8 Final Thoughts on Tenant Disputes
Conflict with your landlord can feel personal, overwhelming, or even intimidating. But you are not alone, and you are not powerless. The Residential Tenancies Act gives Ontario tenants legal protection, and the Landlord and Tenant Board provides a structured, enforceable way to resolve disputes.
Key steps to remember:
- Try informal solutions first, but do not wait too long to act.
- Keep clear, dated, and respectful communication records.
- Use the correct form and follow LTB instructions carefully.
- Bring strong evidence and stay focused on the facts.
- Know that support is available from legal clinics, tenant groups, and provincial services.
Whether your concern is repair delays, rent overcharges, or unlawful entry, the key is to act early, stay organized, and advocate respectfully for your rights as a tenant.
Illustrative Examples: Navigating the Landlord and Tenant Board
Case 1: Illegal Entry Without Notice
Erin’s landlord began showing the unit to prospective buyers and would enter the apartment unannounced, often during her work hours. Despite multiple requests for proper notice, the landlord insisted that it was his property and he could enter as needed.
Erin filed a T2 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for violation of her right to privacy. She submitted emails, a video recording from a camera, and screenshots of text conversations.
Outcome: The Board ruled in Erin’s favour. She was awarded $1,200 in compensation, and the landlord was formally ordered to stop entering without proper notice.
Lesson: Landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice to enter your home. Repeated violations can result in compensation.
Case 2: Rent Raised Illegally
Tenant: Amrit, small business owner
Amrit’s landlord notified her of a 10% rent increase with only 30 days’ notice. When Amrit asked for justification, the landlord told her that “market rates are higher now.” The unit was subject to rent control, and Amrit had lived there for four years.
She filed a T1 application for an illegal rent increase. She submitted her original lease, the new rent demand letter, and screenshots of previous payments.
Outcome: The LTB determined that the increase violated the Residential Tenancies Act. The landlord was ordered to refund the overpayment and roll back the rent to the legal limit.
Lesson: Rent-controlled units have strict rules. Know the annual guideline and verify that any increase follows proper procedure and notice periods.
Case 3: Maintenance Neglect and Mold
Jaden had reported a mold problem in his bathroom that was growing worse over several months. The landlord responded that “it’s just surface mold” and told him to spray it with vinegar.
Eventually, Jaden developed respiratory symptoms and reached out to a local legal clinic. He filed a T6 application with photos, doctor’s notes, and copies of his written requests.
Outcome: The LTB found that the landlord failed to maintain the unit. Jaden received a 30% rent abatement for three months, and the landlord was ordered to complete repairs within 14 days.
Lesson: Tenants have the right to a safe, healthy living environment. If landlords neglect repairs, compensation or rent reductions may apply.
Case 4: Harassment and Verbal Abuse
After Lydia asked for a working stove, her landlord became hostile—calling her multiple times a day, yelling during visits, and threatening eviction. Lydia began recording phone calls and saved every text.
She filed a T2 application and brought her evidence to the hearing. With support from a legal aid worker, she outlined a pattern of intimidation.
Outcome: The LTB ruled that Lydia had experienced harassment and interference with reasonable enjoyment. She was awarded $2,000 in damages and given the option to end her lease early without penalty.
Lesson: Harassment is a serious violation. Tenants are entitled to respectful treatment, and persistent intimidation can result in financial penalties and tenant relief.
Case 5: Eviction in Bad Faith
Jorge received an N12 notice stating the landlord needed the unit for a family member. He moved out and later learned the unit was re-rented at a higher rate just weeks later. He filed a T5 application for bad faith eviction.
Using screenshots from the new rental listing and a statement from a neighbour, Jorge built a strong case.
Outcome: The LTB found the landlord acted in bad faith. Jorge was awarded four months’ rent in compensation, plus moving expenses.
Lesson: If a landlord evicts you under false pretenses, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Bad faith evictions are taken seriously by the Board.