How Can I Get Out Of My Lease in Ontario?

Tenants can end a lease by giving 60 days’ written notice on official Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) forms, effective at the end of a lease term.

Tenant Termination Process

• Notice: Tenants must provide at least 60 days’ written notice. The termination date must line up with the end of the lease term or a month-to-month period.
• No reason required: You don’t need to provide a reason to end your lease.
• Official forms: Use the LTB’s official termination forms to make the notice legally valid.

Landlord Termination Rules

Landlords can only terminate a tenancy under specific legal grounds using the proper LTB forms:

• N12 (landlord’s own use): If the landlord or an immediate family member intends to live in the property for at least one year.
• N13 (extensive renovations): If major renovations require the unit to be vacant. Tenants have the first right of refusal to return once the work is complete.

Automatic Renewal & Month-to-Month Tenancy

• If no new lease is signed after the initial term, the agreement will automatically convert to a month-to-month agreement.
• Either party can terminate with 60 days’ notice, provided the correct form is used.

Why the Process Matters

Ending a lease improperly can lead to disputes, financial penalties, or even LTB hearings. Always follow the notice requirements and use the official forms.

The Fox Marin Team helps tenants and landlords understand Ontario’s lease termination rules, ensuring transitions are handled legally, fairly, and with clarity.

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