How rental disputes work in Ontario: a guide for landlords and tenants
Rental disputes are handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), which provides a formal tribunal process for resolving issues under the Residential Tenancies Act.This guide covers Ontario tenancy law only. For other provinces, see our [rental laws guides].
In Ontario, rental disputes between landlords and tenants are handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). The LTB operates under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and provides a formal process for resolving disputes without going to court. Its decisions are legally binding.
What Kinds of Disputes Can the LTB Handle?
The LTB handles a wide range of matters including eviction applications, unpaid rent, illegal charges, maintenance failures, unauthorized entry, and rent increase disputes. Both landlords and tenants can file applications.
How Do You Start a Dispute?
Applications can be filed online through the Tribunals Ontario Portal or submitted by mail or in person. The filing fee is $53 for online applications and $58 for paper applications, according to tenantrights.ca citing the LTB fee schedule. Fee waivers are available for applicants who cannot afford the cost.
Key tenant forms include:
- T1: application to recover money collected illegally
- T2: application for rights violations (unauthorized entry, harassment)
- T6: application for maintenance issues
Key landlord forms include:
- L1: application to evict for unpaid rent
- L2: application to end a tenancy for other reasons
What Evidence Should You Gather?
Gather your tenancy agreement, all notices received, rent receipts, photos of any issues, and a written log of all communications with the other party. Well-organised evidence strengthens your case and helps the process move efficiently.
What Happens at a Hearing?
An LTB adjudicator reviews evidence from both parties and issues a written, binding decision. Hearings are increasingly conducted by video or telephone. Processing times at the LTB have been lengthy in recent years, so filing as early as possible is advisable.
What Outcomes Are Possible?
The LTB can issue eviction orders, monetary orders, compliance orders, and orders dismissing an application. Monetary orders from the LTB are enforced through the Ontario court system if the losing party does not comply.
Can a Decision Be Appealed?
A party can request a review if they believe the LTB made a serious error. Appeals on questions of law can be taken to the Divisional Court. Strict timelines apply for both reviews and appeals.
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