Introduction

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is the primary legislation governing the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in Ontario. For renters, understanding the protections afforded by this Act is essential. Whether you are a new renter entering your first lease, a long-term tenant facing a dispute, or someone dealing with a difficult landlord situation, knowing your rights empowers you to advocate for yourself effectively.

Rent Increases

One of the most important tenant protections in Ontario is the rent increase guideline. For units that are subject to rent control (generally those first occupied before November 2018), landlords can only raise rent by the provincially mandated guideline percentage, which is typically tied to the rate of inflation and published annually. For 2026, the guideline is set at a specific percentage that tenants should verify with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Landlords must provide 90 days’ written notice using the prescribed form before any rent increase takes effect. Tenants have the right to refuse an illegal rent increase. It is important to note that units first occupied after November 15, 2018 are not subject to rent control, meaning landlords can increase rent by any amount upon lease renewal.

Eviction Protections

In Ontario, a landlord cannot evict a tenant simply because they want to. There are specific grounds upon which a landlord can seek to terminate a tenancy, including non-payment of rent, consistent late payment, damage to the property, illegal activity, and owner or family member occupancy. Even with valid grounds, the landlord must follow a specific legal process through the LTB to obtain an eviction order.

Maintenance and Repairs

Landlords in Ontario are required to maintain rental units and properties in a good state of repair, complying with all applicable health, safety, and housing standards, regardless of what a tenant knew when they moved in. If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs after being notified in writing, tenants can file an application with the LTB for an order requiring the repairs and potentially a rent abatement.

Entry by Landlord

Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering a rental unit, and can only do so between 8 AM and 8 PM. There are limited exceptions, such as emergencies. Tenants have the right to be present during any landlord entry and to refuse entry if proper notice was not given.