What Happens If I Miss a Rent Payment in Ontario?

If you miss a rent payment, your landlord can issue an N4 notice. You then have 14 days to pay the overdue amount and cancel the notice to avoid eviction.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Notify your landlord: Communicate as soon as possible; sometimes a solution can be arranged.
• Know your rights: An N4 notice does not automatically result in eviction. Paying within 14 days cancels the notice.
• Stay organized: Keep accurate records of all payments, agreements, and correspondence.

Risks When You Miss Payments Repeatedly

• Repeated lateness matters: Even if you catch up within 14 days, consistent late payments can lead to eviction.
• Loss of trust: Chronic delays reduce landlord confidence in your reliability as a tenant.

How to Manage Rent Challenges

• Seek support: Contact local tenant support groups or financial assistance programs if you’re struggling.
• Review your budget: Build rent into your highest-priority expenses.
• Stay proactive: Address problems early to protect your tenancy.

The Fox Marin Team will help ensure tenant clients understand their rights and obligations under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, so if rent problems arise, you know what to expect and how to respond.

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