The Residential Tenancies Act governs every rental in Ontario. Landlords who skip reading it pay the price in tribunal orders and lost income. Here are the rules that matter day to day.
Rent Increases
The province sets an annual guideline. For 2026, the maximum increase is 2.5%. You must give 90 days written notice on form N1. Buildings occupied after November 15, 2018 are exempt from rent control — you can raise rent without limit, but the 90-day notice rule still applies.
Security Deposits
You can collect first and last month’s rent. Nothing else. Pet deposits, key deposits beyond replacement cost, and damage deposits are illegal. If a tenant damages the unit, you pursue them at the Landlord and Tenant Board — not through a deposit.
Evictions
You need an order from the LTB to evict. Self-help evictions — changing locks, shutting off utilities, removing belongings — are illegal and expose you to fines. Common grounds for eviction:
- Non-payment of rent (form N4)
- Persistent late payment (form N8)
- Landlord or purchaser’s own use (form N12)
- Major renovations requiring vacancy (form N13)
Maintenance Obligations
You must keep the unit in a good state of repair. This includes appliances you provided, plumbing, electrical, heating, and structural elements. Tenants can apply to the LTB for a rent abatement if you fail to maintain the unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I evict a tenant for having a pet?
Not in Ontario. No-pet clauses in leases are void unless the condo declaration prohibits pets.
How much notice do I need to enter a rental unit?
24 hours written notice with the reason and a time window between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Emergency access does not require notice.
What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?
Serve form N4 immediately. File an L1 application with the LTB if rent remains unpaid after 14 days. The full eviction process takes four to eight months.