As a landlord in Ontario, staying informed about your rights and responsibilities is crucial. The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) regulates the relationship between landlords and tenants, ensuring fairness and clarity for both parties. The following guide provides a comprehensive overview of the most important aspects of landlord responsibilities and rights, with key updates for 2025.
Maintenance and Repairs
One of the most significant obligations for landlords is ensuring the rental property is maintained in a good state of repair. Under Ontario law, landlords are required to keep the property in compliance with health, safety, and maintenance standards. This includes maintaining plumbing, heating, and electrical systems in good working order.
Key points to note:
- Repairs and Maintenance: Landlords must fix any issues that affect the tenant’s health and safety, such as leaks, heating problems, or broken appliances.
- Access for Repairs: Landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice before entering the unit to make repairs, except in emergencies (Toronto.ca).
Rent Control
As of 2025, Ontario continues to apply rent control regulations for most residential rental units. Rent increases are capped at a maximum percentage annually, with exceptions for units built after 2018. The current rent increase guideline is 2.5% for 2025.
For units built before November 15, 2018, landlords must follow the rent increase guideline unless the tenant agrees to a higher amount. Rent increases can only happen once every 12 months, and tenants must receive at least 90 days’ written notice.
Useful resource:
Eviction Rules
Evicting a tenant is a complex process that must be done according to the rules outlined by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). Landlords must provide proper notice for eviction, and in some cases, the eviction must be approved by the board.
Eviction can occur for several reasons, including non-payment of rent, breach of lease terms, or the landlord needing the unit for personal use. The rules for eviction are strict, and landlords must adhere to the correct procedures to avoid legal issues.
Key Takeaways
- Ensure Compliance: Make sure to adhere to rent control and maintenance obligations. Always provide the required notices before entering a unit or increasing rent.
- Avoid Legal Pitfalls: Evictions must follow the proper legal channels. Always consult with a legal expert when facing complex tenant issues.