What is the Landlord and Tenant Board?
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is an adjudicative tribunal that resolves disputes between residential landlords and tenants in Ontario. It operates under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and is part of Tribunals Ontario.
LTB Jurisdiction
The LTB has authority to resolve disputes related to:
- Eviction applications for non-payment of rent
- Evictions for other reasons (damage, illegal activity, etc.)
- Rent increases above the guideline amount
- Maintenance and repair issues
- Tenant applications for rent reductions
- Harassment and interference with reasonable enjoyment
- Security deposit disputes
- Lease agreement violations
Types of Applications
Landlord Applications
- L1: Eviction for non-payment of rent
- L2: Eviction for tenant's illegal act or misrepresenting income
- L3: Application about a tenant's agreement to terminate the tenancy
- L4: Agreement to end the tenancy
- L5: Application to collect rent owed
Tenant Applications
- T1: Tenant's application about a past Rent Increase
- T2: Tenant's application about tenant's rights
- T3: Tenant's application for rent reduction
- T5: Tenant's application about notice to terminate – landlord gave notice
- T6: Tenant's application about maintenance
The LTB Process
1. Filing an Application
Applications can be filed online or by mail. Required documents, filing fees, and proper service of documents to the other party are essential components.
2. Scheduling a Hearing
After filing, the LTB schedules a hearing date. Currently, wait times vary depending on application type and LTB location. Both parties receive notice of the hearing date, time, and location.
3. Preparing for the Hearing
Preparation includes:
- Gathering evidence (photos, documents, receipts)
- Preparing witness testimony
- Organizing a timeline of events
- Reviewing applicable sections of the Residential Tenancies Act
- Understanding LTB rules of procedure
4. The Hearing
Hearings can be conducted in-person, by video, or by telephone. An adjudicator (Member) hears evidence from both parties, asks questions, and makes a decision based on the law and evidence presented.
5. The Order
After the hearing, the Member issues a written order. Orders are legally binding and enforceable. Common orders include:
- Eviction orders with specific termination dates
- Payment orders for rent owed
- Rent reduction orders
- Orders requiring repairs or maintenance
Enforcement
If a tenant does not comply with an eviction order:
- The landlord can request a writ of possession from the LTB
- The Sheriff's office enforces the eviction
- The tenant must vacate by the Sheriff's scheduled enforcement date
Appeals and Reviews
Parties can request:
- Review: Request the LTB to review its decision (within 30 days)
- Appeal: Appeal to Divisional Court on questions of law (within 30 days)
Important Considerations
Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
LTB procedures and timelines can be complex. Consider consulting with a legal professional who specializes in landlord-tenant law for your specific situation.
Additional Resources