July: All About Tenants
Ontario Tenant Rights 101
As a residential tenant in Ontario, knowing your rights can significantly improve your renting experience. Whether you’re navigating pet policies, rent increases, or preparing for showings when your rental is listed for sale, understanding the Residential Tenancies Act and available resources empowers you as a renter. This week’s edition provides a clear overview of your key rights, explains where to seek help if issues arise, and highlights how working with a Realtor can simplify the entire renting process.
1. What Governs Your Tenancy?
Your rights are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) — in force since Jan 31, 2007 — alongside amendments like Bill 184 (2020), which added layers around repayment plans and eviction protections
2. Key Tenant Rights at a Glance ⚠️
Pets
While landlords can screen tenants based on pets before signing, once your tenancy begins, any “no-pets” clause in a lease is void under Section 14 of the RTA. You can’t be charged extra or evicted simply for having a pet—unless it causes serious harm, disturbances, or violates municipal bylaws.Rent Deposits & Payments
Landlords can collect a deposit up to one month’s rent (or one week’s, if paid weekly). This deposit must only be used as the final payment before moving out. They must pay annual interest on it at the rent increase guideline rate. Landlords can’t force you to use post-dated cheques or auto-pay—you choose the method.Rent Increases
Standard rent increases are limited to the annual guideline (2.5% for 2025) and can only occur 12 months after the last increase with 90 days’ written notice using approved forms tribunalsontario.ca. Larger increases must be approved by the LTB and typically involve documentation for reasons such as major capital expenses.Access & Showings
Landlords must provide proper notice (usually 24 hours in writing) before entering, whether for repairs, inspections, or showings. They can enter only during reasonable hours (usually 8 AM–8 PM).Dispute-Free Tenure & Eviction Protections
Tenancy automatically renews until terminated with an LTB order. You can only be evicted with valid grounds like unpaid rent, illegal activity, or serious damage. Even then, a proper LTB hearing is require
3. Where to Learn More & Get Help
| Resource | Reach |
|---|---|
| Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) | File disputes, rent increases, eviction defenses; toll-free: 1‑888‑332‑3234; in-person: ServiceOntario at 255 Albert St, Ottawa swlegalservices.ca+15tribunalsontario.ca+15royalyorkpropertymanagement.ca+15 |
| Rental Housing Enforcement Unit (RHEU) | Investigates RTA violations: 416‑585‑7214 or 1‑888‑772‑9277 |
| Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) | For issues involving discrimination in housing |
| Community Legal Clinics | Free legal advice—find via ACTO |
| Rural & Remote Tenant Support | Ontario.ca provides forms and guidance |
4. Filing Grievances
- Direct communication: Start by talking with your landlord and document everything.
- RHEU complaint: Use the numbers above for RTA violations.
- LTB application: File online or in-person (ServiceOntario), with options for rent reduction, eviction challenge, or work orders.
- Human Rights claim: If discrimination occurred, file with HRTO.
- Small Claims Court: For monetary disputes beyond LTB scope.
5. How a Realtor Can Help Even as a Tenant
Lease review: Spot void terms (like no-pet clauses) and explain rights clearly.
Negotiation assistance: Help manage fair rental rates and lease terms.
Referral network: Connect you with reliable landlords or rental units.
Support during disputes: Provide guidance and documentation to support your case.
Market insights: Keep you aware of rental trends and your bargaining power.
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