How Do I Properly Serve A Notice To A Tenant?

A notice must be in writing, use the correct LTB form, include required details, and be delivered by an approved method within the proper notice period.

Types of Notices

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) outlines various forms depending on the issue. Common ones include:

• N4: Non-payment of rent
• N5: Damage, interference, or overcrowding
• N6: Illegal acts or income misrepresentation
• N12: Landlord’s personal use or purchaser’s use
• N13: Demolition, conversion, or major repairs

Using the correct form is essential for validity. Information That Must Be Included

Every notice must be in writing and state:

• The tenant’s name and rental unit address
• The date the notice is issued
• The reason for the notice
• The compliance or termination date
• Any corrective action the tenant can take (if applicable)
• The landlord’s signature

Incomplete notices may be thrown out by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Approved Delivery Methods

• Hand delivery: Direct to the tenant for certainty.
• Regular mail: Add five extra days to the notice period.
• Posting on the unit door: If the tenant cannot be reached in person.

Notice Periods
Different forms carry different timelines. For example, an N4 for non-payment usually gives 14 days to pay, while an N12 for personal use requires at least 60 days’ notice. Always confirm the correct period.

Documentation and Follow-Up
Keep a record of when and how you delivered the notice, including the names of any witnesses if possible. Documentation protects you if the tenant disputes the receipt. After serving, follow up with the tenant to clarify expectations. If they don’t comply, the next step is filing with the LTB for a hearing.

The Fox Marin Team assists Toronto landlords in understanding Ontario’s notice rules, helping landlords stay compliant with the RTA, protect their investments, and reduce the risk of disputes.

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