Your Complete Guide to the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

Written By Oduraa

When issues arise between landlords and tenants, the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the official body that helps resolve them. Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, understanding how the LTB works can help you protect your rights and fulfill your responsibilities.

This guide will explain what the LTB is, its main functions, how disputes are handled, and what you need to know if you ever have to go through the process.

What is the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board?

The Landlord and Tenant Board is a tribunal that is part of Tribunals Ontario. It was created under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). Its main job is to resolve disputes between residential landlords and tenants in a fair and legal way.

It also provides information about the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, and enforces the rules set out in the RTA.

Who Does the LTB Serve?

The LTB serves:

  • Residential tenants (people who rent homes or apartments)

  • Landlords (people who own and rent out residential properties)

  • Former tenants and landlords (in cases involving unpaid rent or damages)

  • Rooming house occupants and care home residents, in some cases

The LTB does not cover:

  • Commercial tenancies

  • Condominium owners and tenants

  • People who share a kitchen or bathroom with the owner of the home

  • Short-term guests or roommates in many informal arrangements

Common Issues Handled by the LTB

Here are some common reasons people go to the LTB:

  • A tenant not paying rent

  • A landlord wanting to evict a tenant

  • A tenant needing repairs that the landlord won’t do

  • Disagreements about rent increases

  • Problems with damage to the property

  • Harassment by either party

Applications to the LTB

Either a landlord or a tenant can file an application with the LTB. Some common applications include:

For Landlords:

  1. Application to evict a tenant for non-payment of rent

  2. Application to evict for damage to the unit or building

  3. Application to increase rent above the guideline (in certain situations)

  4. Application to collect money owed for rent or damages

For Tenants:

  1. Application to request a rent reduction

  2. Application for maintenance or repair issues

  3. Application if the landlord illegally entered the unit

  4. Application if the tenant believes the landlord is harassing them

Each application type has its own form and fee. Tenants may apply for a fee waiver if they cannot afford to pay.

The LTB Process: Step-by-Step

Here is how the process usually works:

Step 1: Filing an Application

  • The person with the issue (landlord or tenant) files an application with the LTB.

  • The LTB assigns a file number and schedules a hearing.

  • A copy of the application and a Notice of Hearing must be served to the other party.

Step 2: Serving the Application

  • The applicant must give a copy of the application and notice to the other party.

  • This must be done following LTB rules about how and when to serve documents.

Step 3: Attending the Hearing

  • Most hearings are now held online or by telephone.

  • Both parties can present their evidence, such as photos, letters, receipts, or witness statements.

  • You can represent yourself or hire a legal representative.

Step 4: Decision

  • A Member of the Board will make a decision after hearing both sides.

  • The decision, called an “Order,” will be sent to both parties.

  • The Order is legally binding.

Evictions

A landlord cannot evict a tenant without going through the LTB. The eviction process usually follows these steps:

  1. The landlord gives the tenant a written notice (for example, a Notice to End your Tenancy for Non-payment of Rent).

  2. If the issue isn’t resolved, the landlord applies to the LTB for an eviction order.

  3. A hearing is held.

  4. If the LTB approves the eviction, it will issue an order.

  5. Only a Court Enforcement Officer (Sheriff) can physically remove a tenant. The landlord cannot do this on their own.

There are rules about how much notice is needed and what reasons are allowed for eviction. Not all reasons will lead to an eviction. For example, landlords must follow specific rules when ending a tenancy because they want to move in themselves.

Tenant Rights During the Process

Tenants have several important rights under the RTA and LTB process:

  • The right to receive proper notice

  • The right to attend and speak at the hearing

  • The right to see the evidence against them

  • The right to appeal certain decisions

  • The right to stay in the rental unit until a formal eviction order is enforced by the Sheriff

Landlord Rights During the Process

Landlords also have rights under the LTB process:

  • The right to file applications to resolve issues

  • The right to recover rent or damages through the Board

  • The right to request an eviction if there are legal grounds

  • The right to a fair hearing

Mediation and Settlements

Before or during a hearing, the LTB may offer mediation. Mediation is voluntary and allows both parties to try to come to an agreement with the help of a neutral mediator.

If both parties agree, a settlement can be signed and becomes enforceable like an order.

Appeals and Reviews

If you disagree with a decision made by the LTB, there are two options:

  1. Request a Review: You can ask the LTB to review its own decision if you believe there was a serious error.

  2. Appeal to Divisional Court: You can appeal to a higher court, but only on a question of law.

There are strict timelines for both options, usually within 30 days.

Timeframes and Delays

The time it takes to get a hearing or decision can vary depending on the type of application, how busy the Board is, and whether documents are served properly. Delays are common, especially in larger cities.

To avoid delays:

  • File the correct form

  • Serve documents properly

  • Attend hearings and be prepared

  • Communicate clearly with the other party when possible

Legal Help and Resources

While you can represent yourself at the LTB, many people choose to get legal help. You can contact:

  • Legal Aid Ontario

  • Tenant Duty Counsel (available at some LTB hearings)

  • Community legal clinics

  • Paralegals or lawyers with experience in landlord-tenant law

Tips for Landlords and Tenants

For Tenants:

  • Keep records of rent payments, repair requests, and communication

  • Report issues in writing

  • Learn your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act

For Landlords:

  • Keep detailed records of rent, maintenance, and communication

  • Use legal forms and give proper notice

  • Understand the rules for rent increases, entry, and eviction

The Landlord and Tenant Board plays a critical role in managing rental housing issues in Ontario. By understanding how the system works, landlords and tenants can better protect their interests, avoid unnecessary conflict, and resolve disputes fairly.

The best outcomes often come when both parties communicate clearly and follow the law. When that’s not possible, the LTB provides a legal and structured way to settle disagreements.

If you're ever unsure of what to do, getting advice early can save time, money, and stress.

Oduraa
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