What Should I Do If My Landlord Breaks Tenancy Laws in Ontario?

Document everything, gather evidence, and contact the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). You may also seek legal advice from tenant advocacy groups or lawyers.

Step 1: Document and Gather Evidence

• Keep records: Save all emails, texts, and letters exchanged with your landlord.
• Visual proof: Take photos or videos of any problems.
• Track notices: Keep copies of repair requests or formal notices.

Step 2: Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

• File a complaint: Submit a formal application with your evidence.
• LTB authority: The board enforces Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and can order landlords to comply, compensate tenants, or face penalties.

Step 3: Seek Legal Support

• Tenant advocacy groups: Organizations like tenant hotlines or community legal clinics offer guidance.
• Legal professionals: Landlord-tenant lawyers can help you prepare your case and represent you at a hearing.

Step 4: Stay Organized

• Maintain a timeline of events.
• File all documents in one place.
• This strengthens your case if it escalates to mediation or a hearing.

The Fox Marin Team encourages its tenant clients to familiarize themselves with their rights under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act and to take informed, proactive steps if they believe their landlord is acting unlawfully.

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