Above-Guideline Rent Increases in Ontario: AGI Rules Explained

Ontario Above-Guideline Increase Guide · Updated for 2026

An Above-Guideline Increase, commonly called an AGI, is a process that can allow a landlord to seek a rent increase above Ontario’s annual guideline in limited circumstances. It is not a blanket right to raise rent whenever operating costs increase.

When an AGI May Be Available

Tribunals Ontario’s L5 instructions identify qualifying categories such as extraordinary increases in municipal taxes and charges, certain security-service costs, and eligible capital expenditures. The application must fit the statutory criteria.

The L5 Application

A landlord seeking an AGI generally applies to the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form L5 and supporting documentation. The LTB determines whether the claimed costs qualify and what increase, if any, is allowed.

Documentation Matters

• Municipal tax bills and comparison records
• Invoices and contracts for eligible capital work
• Proof of payment
• Security-service contracts and invoices where applicable
• Rental-unit information required by the application

Tenants Can Participate

Tenants affected by an AGI application can review the case and participate in the LTB process. An application does not mean every amount claimed by the landlord will automatically be approved.

Do Not Confuse AGI With an N10 Agreement

Ontario also has Form N10 for certain agreements to increase rent above the guideline in exchange for specified capital work or services. It is a different process from an L5 application.

Official Resources

See the current L5 instructions and LTB forms page. Use our Ontario Rent Increase Calculator for guideline planning.

AGI FAQ

General information only: AGI applications are document-heavy and technical. Verify current LTB instructions and obtain advice for a specific application.