Ontario Rental Laws – An Overview of Landlord-Tenant Rights in Ottawa

Key Takeaways

• Ontario’s landlord-tenant laws are strict and highly specific. Even small mistakes—especially around notices, deposits, or entry—can quickly lead to costly Landlord and Tenant Board disputes, particularly in high-density regions like the GTA and Golden Horseshoe.

• Landlords have limited flexibility when it comes to fees, deposits, and leases. Security deposits and most nonrefundable fees are prohibited, interest must be paid on rent deposits, and the Provincial Standard Lease is mandatory for most tenancies.

• Both landlords and tenants have strong, enforceable rights. Tenants are protected by privacy, maintenance, and anti-discrimination laws, while landlords must follow formal legal processes to enforce lease terms or pursue evictions.

• Compliance is not optional and the burden often falls on landlords. Proper documentation, disclosures, and adherence to legal procedures are essential to avoid penalties, delays, and financial loss.

Ontario has one of the most detailed landlord-tenant legal systems in Canada. Many landlords and tenants are surprised to learn how specific the rules are and how strictly they are enforced. In cities like Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, and across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, small mistakes can quickly turn into costly disputes at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Whether you rent out one condo or manage multiple units, understanding Ontario landlord-tenant law is not optional. The rules affect rent increases, evictions, deposits, privacy, and maintenance. That is why E & S Property Management put together this article to explain the essentials in clear, plain language and help you avoid common problems.

Required Landlord Disclosures in Ontario

Ontario landlords must disclose certain information to tenants under provincial law. These disclosures are typically included in the lease agreement or provided in writing.

Nonrefundable Fees

A landlord must clearly state all fees in writing before the tenant signs the lease. Ontario law strictly limits nonrefundable charges. Application fees or administrative fees are generally not allowed. While refundable key deposits are permitted, they must not exceed the actual replacement cost of the keys/fobs and must be returned when the keys are handed back.

Rent Deposit and Interest

Ontario does not allow traditional security or damage deposits. Landlords may only collect a rent deposit, which can be used for the last month’s rent. This deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent and must be applied only to rent, not damages. 

Landlords must pay interest on the deposit each year at the guideline rent increase rate. Usually, this interest is used to “top up” the deposit so it stays equal to the current monthly rent after a guideline increase. 

Rights of Domestic Violence Victims

Tenants who are experiencing domestic or sexual violence have special rights. They may end a lease early by providing 28 days’ notice and specific documentation. These protections are designed to help tenants leave unsafe situations without financial penalty.

Standard Lease Requirement

Ontario requires most residential tenancies to use the Provincial Standard Lease. This lease outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties in plain language. If a landlord fails to provide this standard form upon request, the tenant may have the right to withhold one month’s rent.

Owner or Agent Identity

Landlords must provide their legal name and a valid address for service. This information must be included in the lease or given in writing within 21 days of the start of the tenancy. If this is not provided, the tenant’s obligation to pay rent is legally suspended until the information is received.

Move-In Condition Documentation

While Ontario does not mandate a formal move-in checklist, landlords are strongly encouraged to document the unit’s condition at the start. Written records and photos are essential, as the landlord carries the burden of proof if they later claim “undue damage” at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Ontario Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Tenant Rights

Tenants have the right to remain in their rental unit unless removed through the proper legal process. Only the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) can authorize an eviction. Tenants also have the right to timely repairs, privacy, quiet enjoyment, and a home that meets all health and safety standards.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants must pay rent on time, follow the terms of the lease, and provide proper notice before moving out. They are responsible for keeping the unit reasonably clean, avoiding excessive noise, and not causing damage beyond normal wear and tear. 

Ontario Landlord Rights and Responsibilities

Landlord Rights

Landlords have the right to collect rent in full on the day it is due, enforce lawful lease terms, and apply to the LTB if tenants breach the agreement.

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords must follow the legal eviction process, self-help evictions (like changing locks) are illegal. They must maintain the property in good repair, provide 24 hours written notice before entering (except in emergencies), and respect the tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment.

An Overview of Ontario Landlord-Tenant Laws

1. Tenant Privacy and Landlord’s Right to Enter

Entry generally requires 24 hours written notice and must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless it is an emergency or the tenant agrees to the entry.

2. Condition, Maintenance, and Repairs

Landlords are legally responsible for keeping units habitable (heating, plumbing, electricity, and weatherproofing). These obligations apply even if the lease says otherwise.

3. Ontario Housing Discrimination Laws

The Human Rights Code prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, disability, receipt of public assistance, and other protected grounds.

4. Renters’ Rights to Remedies

Tenants should not withhold rent on their own. Instead, they should file an application with the LTB for a rent abatement or an order for repairs.

5. Small Claims and the Landlord and Tenant Board

Most disputes regarding rent or damages (even for former tenants) are handled by the LTB. The monetary limit for both the Landlord and Tenant Board and Small Claims Court is $50,000. 

Bottom Line

Ontario landlord-tenant law is detailed and constantly evolving. Trying to manage everything alone can be risky, especially in high-demand areas like Ottawa and surrounding regions. For consistent legal compliance, efficient tenant management, and reduced risk, partnering with E & S Property Management is a smart, strategic decision.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this blog is intended for general guidance and should not be considered as a replacement for professional legal advice. It is important to be aware that laws pertaining to property management may change, rendering this information outdated by the time you read it.