As a landlord in Ontario, managing rental property isn’t always straightforward. While most tenancies run smoothly, there are times when landlords need to turn to the
Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) to resolve disputes. The LTB is the tribunal that enforces the
Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and makes legally binding decisions for both landlords and tenants.
If you’re wondering when it’s appropriate — or necessary — to file an application, here are the most common reasons landlords take tenants to the LTB.
1. Non-Payment of Rent
The most frequent issue landlords face is unpaid rent. If a tenant doesn’t pay rent on time, a landlord can issue an
N4
Notice to End a Tenancy Early for Non-Payment of Rent.
- If the tenant still fails to pay after the notice period, the landlord can apply to the LTB for an eviction order and recovery of the arrears.
- This process ensures landlords have a legal pathway to recover owed rent while maintaining fairness for tenants.
2. Consistently Late Rent Payments
Even if a tenant eventually pays, consistently late payments can disrupt a landlord’s financial stability.
In these cases, landlords can file for relief at the LTB.
- An
N8 Notice to Terminate Tenancy at the End of Term may be served for persistent late payments.
- The LTB will consider whether the pattern of late payments is serious enough to justify ending the tenancy.
3. Damage to the Rental Unit
Landlords expect normal wear and tear, but significant damage beyond that can be grounds for an LTB application.
- Examples: holes in walls, broken appliances, or intentional property destruction.
- An
N5 Notice to End Tenancy for Interference, Damage, or Overcrowding is typically used in these cases.
4. Illegal Acts in the Unit
If tenants are engaging in illegal activity — such as drug trafficking or operating unlawful businesses — landlords can apply to the LTB for eviction.
- An
N6 Notice to Terminate Tenancy for Illegal Acts or Misrepresentation of Income is served in such situations.
- The LTB takes these matters seriously as they affect both the landlord’s property and community safety.
5. Disturbing Other Tenants or the Landlord
Tenants have the right to enjoy their rental unit, but they also must respect their neighbours.
- Excessive noise, harassment, or disruptive behaviour can lead to an
N5 Notice.
- Landlords can apply to the LTB if the behaviour continues after proper notice is given.
6. The Landlord or Family Needs the Unit
Sometimes landlords apply to the LTB not because of tenant misconduct, but because they or an immediate family member need to live in the rental unit.
- In this case, landlords serve an
N12 Notice.
- Compensation or relocation support may be required under Ontario law.
7. Abandonment of the Unit
If a tenant abandons the rental unit without proper notice, landlords can seek an order from the LTB to confirm abandonment and regain possession. This protects landlords from liability while allowing them to re-rent the unit.
Final Thoughts
The LTB exists to provide a fair, balanced system for resolving landlord–tenant disputes in Ontario. For landlords, it’s a critical tool to enforce rights, protect investments, and maintain safe rental properties.
If you’re a landlord dealing with unpaid rent, tenant misconduct, or other challenges, a
licensed paralegal can guide you through the LTB process, file applications correctly, and represent you at hearings to maximize your chances of success.
