Ontario Home Intel
Menu

Category: Tenants

Ontario tenant guides covering leases, rent, deposits, repairs, landlord entry, notices, ending a tenancy and Landlord and Tenant Board processes.

  • Can My Tenant Break Their Lease Early in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Tenant? · Ontario rental question #24

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord / Can My Tenant?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Sometimes. A fixed-term lease does not normally end just because a tenant wants to move, but Ontario law provides several possible routes: an agreement with the landlord, assignment, certain special statutory notices, or an LTB order. A tenant who simply leaves may remain responsible for losses, although the landlord must take reasonable steps to minimize them.

    The correct route depends on the facts. An N11 can record a mutual agreement to end the tenancy. Sections 95 to 98 govern assignment and may permit an N9 in specific circumstances. The RTA also contains special protections for domestic or sexual violence and abuse, and tenants may seek termination or other remedies for serious landlord breaches.

    At the end of a fixed term, a tenancy commonly continues month to month unless it is lawfully ended. The lease does not automatically terminate on its expiry date.

    Can the landlord demand every remaining month immediately?

    A landlord may claim actual losses caused by an improper early departure, but has a duty to take reasonable steps to minimize those losses, including reasonable re-rental efforts. The result depends on evidence about vacancy, advertising and replacement rent.

    Is assignment the same as subletting?

    No. Assignment transfers the tenancy. Subletting is temporary and the tenant expects to return before the tenancy term ends. Consent and remedies differ.

    Should the parties use an N11?

    If both sides genuinely agree to end the tenancy, the current N11 can document the termination date. A tenant should not be pressured to sign, and both parties should retain a copy.

    What should the tenant do?

    • Explain the situation early and ask about a written agreement or assignment.
    • Use the current form and follow notice and service rules exactly.
    • Keep evidence of requests, responses and any replacement tenant proposed.
    • Do not assume returning keys alone ends financial responsibility.

    What should the landlord do?

    • Respond promptly to assignment and termination proposals.
    • Document reasonable efforts to re-rent and the actual losses claimed.
    • Avoid double recovery after a replacement tenancy begins.
    • Use a clear N11 only where the agreement is voluntary.

    Example

    A tenant with six months left asks to assign the unit. The landlord refuses assignment generally. The tenant may have a time-limited N9 option that is different from simply abandoning the unit.

    Official sources

    Continue the series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. Outcomes depend on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Tenant Have Someone Move In Without My Permission?

    OHI | Can My Tenant? · Ontario rental question #22

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord / Can My Tenant?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Often, yes. A tenant can generally have a roommate or additional occupant without making that person a tenant on the lease. However, the arrangement may require the landlord’s consent if it is really an assignment or sublet. Overcrowding, condominium rules, safety issues and what happens when the original tenant leaves can also change the analysis.

    The RTA does not automatically make every occupant a tenant. LTB Interpretation Guideline 21 explains that paying money to the tenant—or even making a payment directly to the landlord—does not by itself determine tenancy status. The real substance of the arrangement matters.

    An assignment transfers the tenancy to someone else. A sublet usually involves the tenant giving another person possession for a shorter period while retaining a right to return. Both are governed by specific consent rules.

    Can the landlord add the occupant to the lease?

    Adding someone as a tenant normally requires agreement. The landlord should not assume that accepting a payment automatically settles the person’s legal status, and the tenant cannot usually force the landlord to add a roommate as a named tenant.

    Can extra rent be charged?

    An additional occupant does not automatically permit an unlawful rent increase or a new occupancy fee. Lawful-rent rules continue to apply. Separately metered utilities or other existing lawful lease terms may affect costs.

    What if the original tenant moves out?

    If the tenant permanently leaves and another person remains, section 100’s unauthorized-occupant process may become relevant. Landlords should obtain prompt advice because timing can matter.

    What should the tenant do?

    • Keep responsibility for rent, damage and occupant conduct clear.
    • Check lawful occupancy standards and condominium rules.
    • Do not disguise a transfer of the entire unit as a roommate arrangement.
    • Put household arrangements in writing, especially payments and move-out expectations.

    What should the landlord do?

    • Determine whether the named tenant still lives in and controls the unit.
    • Focus on provable overcrowding, damage or interference rather than assumptions.
    • Avoid inadvertently representing that an occupant has been accepted as a tenant without understanding the consequences.
    • Get prompt advice if the tenant leaves and the occupant stays.

    Example

    A tenant stays in a two-bedroom unit and shares it with a partner. That is usually different from the tenant moving away and turning the whole unit over to the partner.

    Official sources

    Continue the series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. Outcomes depend on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Tenant Change the Locks in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Tenant? · Ontario rental question #21

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord / Can My Tenant?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Generally, not without the landlord’s consent. Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) says a tenant must not alter the locking system on a door giving entry to the rental unit or residential complex unless the landlord agrees. A landlord also cannot change the locks without giving the tenant replacement keys.

    Section 35 of the RTA addresses lock changes by tenants. Section 24 addresses lock changes by landlords. These reciprocal rules protect security while preserving lawful access.

    A tenant’s safety concern does not erase the statutory rule, but urgent circumstances should be handled promptly. Where domestic or sexual violence is involved, specialized legal and safety resources may be appropriate.

    What if the tenant replaces a lock after losing a key?

    The tenant should contact the landlord rather than unilaterally changing the system. The parties can agree on replacement, costs and delivery of keys. If an immediate security measure is necessary, document the circumstances and communicate as soon as safely possible.

    Can the landlord force entry because the key no longer works?

    No. A lock dispute does not create a general right to break in. Entry must still comply with the RTA, except in a genuine emergency. The landlord should document the issue and use the appropriate LTB process if it cannot be resolved.

    What if the lock is broken?

    A broken or unsafe lock can be a maintenance issue. The tenant should report it promptly, and the landlord should arrange repair while respecting lawful entry requirements.

    What should the tenant do?

    • Request written consent before changing or rekeying an entry lock.
    • Explain any security concern and propose how replacement keys will be provided.
    • Report broken locks immediately and keep messages and photographs.
    • Seek prompt legal and safety advice if the situation involves violence, stalking or an immediate threat.

    What should the landlord do?

    • Respond promptly to security and maintenance concerns.
    • Put any permission, cost arrangement and key-transfer plan in writing.
    • Do not remove or lock out the tenant; only the lawful eviction process can end possession.
    • Use the correct LTB process for an unresolved unauthorized alteration.

    Example

    A tenant installs a new deadbolt without telling the landlord and keeps the only key. That can breach section 35. If the existing lock failed, the repair obligation and emergency facts also need to be considered.

    Official sources

    Continue the series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. Outcomes depend on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Evict Me Because of a Noise Complaint in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #20

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: A noise complaint does not automatically evict a tenant. Serious or repeated noise that substantially interferes with another person’s reasonable enjoyment may justify an N5 notice and an LTB application. The landlord must prove the case, follow the correct procedure, and obtain an eviction order before a tenant can be removed.

    Section 64 of the RTA permits a landlord to give notice where a tenant, another occupant or a person the tenant permits in the complex substantially interferes with another tenant’s or the landlord’s reasonable enjoyment or with a lawful right, privilege or interest.

    The usual first N5 notice includes an opportunity to correct the behaviour. Different rules can apply to a second N5 within the statutory period. The current form and instructions should always be checked before action is taken.

    Does one complaint prove excessive noise?

    No. A complaint is evidence that an issue was reported, but the LTB considers reliability, frequency, duration, time, severity and impact. Ordinary living noise is not automatically substantial interference.

    What evidence matters?

    Detailed incident logs, contemporaneous messages, witness testimony, bylaw records and appropriately collected recordings may help. Vague statements such as “always loud” are less useful than specific dates, times, duration and effects.

    Can the landlord personally evict the tenant?

    No. An N5 is a notice, not an eviction order. If the matter proceeds, the landlord must apply to the LTB. Only the authorized enforcement process can carry out an eviction.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Take a complaint seriously and ask for specific dates, times and the nature of the problem.
    • Reduce avoidable noise promptly and document steps taken.
    • Keep records if complaints are mistaken, retaliatory or relate to ordinary living activities.
    • Read any N5 and its deadline carefully; obtain legal advice promptly.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Investigate neutrally and obtain specific evidence from affected people.
    • Communicate expectations before escalation where appropriate.
    • Distinguish ordinary living noise from substantial interference and consider human-rights accommodation duties.
    • Use the correct current N5 and LTB procedure; never use threats, lockouts or utility interruption.

    Example

    A single report of footsteps at 7 p.m. may be ordinary living noise. Repeated amplified music throughout the night, supported by detailed logs and witnesses, may support a formal response.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Show the Rental While I Still Live There in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #19

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Yes, in certain circumstances. If the landlord and tenant have agreed that the tenancy will end or one side has given a notice of termination, the landlord may enter to show the unit to prospective tenants between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. after making a reasonable effort to inform the tenant. Other types of showing—such as to prospective buyers—generally require at least 24 hours’ written notice and a lawful purpose.

    Sections 26 and 27 of the RTA govern landlord entry. The special rule for prospective tenants applies once termination conditions are met. Entry to allow a potential purchaser, insurer, mortgagee or other listed person to view the unit generally requires written notice at least 24 hours before entry, a stated reason, and a time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

    Lawful entry is not permission for harassment, excessive disruption or careless handling of belongings. The tenant’s reasonable enjoyment and privacy still matter.

    Does the tenant have to leave during a showing?

    The RTA does not generally require the tenant to vacate simply because a lawful showing occurs. Parties can cooperate on practical arrangements, but the landlord should not misrepresent a request as a legal requirement.

    Can a lockbox be used?

    A lockbox does not replace the entry rules. The landlord remains responsible for who enters, why, and whether required notice or reasonable efforts were provided.

    Can photos or video be taken?

    Showing a unit and photographing a tenant’s belongings are different issues. Listing media can create privacy concerns. Landlords should minimize personal information, obtain appropriate consent where needed and consider alternatives such as previous vacant-unit photos.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Keep written records of notices and proposed showing times.
    • Secure valuables and sensitive documents, and communicate reasonable privacy concerns.
    • Offer workable alternatives if a proposed time creates a serious issue, while recognizing lawful entry rights.
    • Document repeated improper entry or substantial interference and seek advice if it continues.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Identify whether the showing is for prospective tenants or purchasers and apply the correct entry rule.
    • Give clear written notice when required and keep records of reasonable efforts to inform.
    • Limit attendance, supervise access and avoid unnecessary images of personal belongings.
    • Group showings reasonably where possible to reduce disruption.

    Example

    After an N9 notice, the landlord texts the tenant that a prospective tenant will attend tomorrow at 2 p.m. and makes a reasonable effort to inform them. A buyer showing before the tenancy ends generally follows the separate 24-hour written-notice rule.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Shut Off My Utilities in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #12

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Generally, a landlord cannot deliberately withhold or interfere with a reasonable supply of a vital service that the landlord is obligated to provide. Heat, fuel, electricity, gas and hot or cold water can fall within Ontario’s vital-services protections. Tenant-paid utility accounts create different practical issues, but a landlord still cannot use service interruption as a self-help eviction tactic.

    Section 21 of the RTA prohibits a landlord from withholding or deliberately interfering with a reasonable supply of a vital service, care service, or food where the landlord is obligated to supply it. Section 4 makes conflicting lease terms void.

    Temporary interruptions caused by urgent repairs, utility failures or circumstances outside the landlord’s control are not automatically the same as deliberate interference. The reason, duration, notice and response all matter.

    What if utilities are included in the rent?

    If the tenancy makes the landlord responsible for a utility, the landlord should not cut it off to collect rent, pressure a tenant to leave or punish a complaint. Rent arrears must be addressed through the lawful notice and LTB process.

    What if the tenant pays the utility company directly?

    If the tenant is responsible for a separately metered account, non-payment to the provider may lead to a service issue under the provider’s rules. That is different from a landlord personally interfering with service. Parties should confirm the lease, bills and account holder before assigning responsibility.

    What about emergency repairs?

    A short interruption may be necessary to repair a leak, electrical hazard or equipment failure. The landlord should act reasonably, communicate what is happening and restore service as promptly as possible.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Confirm which utilities the lease says are included and whose name is on each account.
    • Document the outage, temperature, dates, messages and any explanation provided.
    • Contact the utility provider if the account is in your name and the interruption may be provider-related.
    • For urgent health or safety concerns, contact the appropriate municipal service or emergency authority; consider legal advice and the applicable LTB tenant application.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Never use a utility shutoff to pressure a tenant to pay or move.
    • Give clear notice of planned service interruptions where possible and keep repair records.
    • Respond promptly to loss of heat, water, electricity or gas and document outside-provider failures.
    • Use lawful rent-arrears or termination procedures instead of self-help measures.

    Example

    A plumber shuts off water for two hours to repair a burst pipe and the landlord provides updates. That differs from a landlord turning off water for days because the tenant owes rent.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Charge a Key Deposit in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #18

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Yes, a landlord may generally collect a refundable deposit for keys, remote-entry devices or cards—but the amount cannot exceed their expected direct replacement cost. It is not a damage deposit, security fee or source of profit, and it should be returned when the devices are returned.

    Ontario Regulation 516/06 permits payment of a refundable key deposit if the amount does not exceed the expected direct replacement cost. The rule can apply to keys, remote-entry devices or cards.

    The landlord should be able to explain what is covered and how the amount reflects replacement cost. Calling a charge a “key deposit” does not make an excessive or non-refundable fee lawful.

    How much can the deposit be?

    There is no universal flat amount for every building. The ceiling is tied to expected direct replacement cost. A standard metal key may cost much less than a specialized fob or garage remote.

    When should it be returned?

    The deposit is refundable when the tenant returns the keys or devices at the end of the tenancy. Both parties should document what was issued and returned.

    Can the landlord deduct unrelated damage?

    A key deposit is not a general damage fund. Unrelated cleaning, rent or repair claims should not be taken from it merely because the landlord holds the money.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Ask for a receipt listing each key, card or remote and the deposit amount.
    • Keep proof of payment and obtain written confirmation when devices are returned.
    • Report a lost device promptly and ask for the actual replacement-cost breakdown.
    • Do not confuse a lawful refundable key deposit with an unlawful damage deposit.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Base the deposit on expected direct replacement cost and keep supporting records.
    • Provide a receipt and inventory of devices issued.
    • Return the deposit promptly when the devices are returned.
    • Handle unrelated rent or damage claims separately through the lawful process.

    Example

    A condo fob costs the landlord $85 to replace, and the landlord collects and later refunds $85. That may fit the rule. A non-refundable $300 “key and administration fee” requires a different analysis and may be unlawful.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Require Tenant Insurance in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #16

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: A landlord can generally include a requirement in the tenancy agreement that the tenant maintain liability insurance. Ontario’s standard lease specifically addresses this possibility. Whether a tenant is actually required to obtain coverage depends on the agreement, and any enforcement step must still follow the RTA.

    The Ontario standard lease states that a tenant must have liability insurance at all times if the landlord asks for it, and that the landlord may ask to see proof. Tenant insurance often also includes personal-property and additional-living-expense coverage, but those parts protect the tenant and are not the same as the landlord’s property insurance.

    A lease requirement does not let a landlord buy any policy they choose, add an arbitrary fee to rent or personally evict a tenant. Disputes must be addressed through lawful processes.

    What does tenant insurance usually cover?

    Coverage varies. A policy may include personal liability, belongings and additional living expenses if the unit becomes uninhabitable after an insured loss. Tenants should review exclusions, limits and deductibles with a licensed insurer or broker.

    Can the landlord ask for proof?

    If insurance is required by the lease, requesting reasonable proof is contemplated by the standard lease. Tenants should avoid sharing unnecessary personal financial information and can ask what evidence is required.

    Does the landlord’s insurance cover the tenant?

    Usually, a landlord’s policy protects the building owner’s interests and does not replace coverage for the tenant’s belongings, liability or temporary living expenses.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Read the insurance clause before signing and clarify the required liability limit.
    • Keep coverage active and retain proof if the lease requires it.
    • Compare what the policy actually covers, including exclusions and deductibles.
    • Notify the insurer if roommates, business use or other material circumstances change.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Use a clear clause in the standard lease and request only reasonable proof.
    • Avoid representing yourself as an insurance adviser unless licensed.
    • Keep your own landlord policy current; tenant insurance does not replace it.
    • Address an alleged breach proportionately and through the lawful process.

    Example

    The signed standard lease requires liability insurance and the landlord asks annually for a certificate showing active coverage. That is different from the landlord adding a monthly “insurance fee” without an agreed lawful basis.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Stop Me From Getting a Roommate in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #15

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Often, a tenant can have a roommate or additional occupant without the landlord making that person a tenant on the lease. But the answer can change if the arrangement is really an assignment or sublet, violates lawful occupancy standards, breaches enforceable condominium rules, or the original tenant moves out.

    The RTA does not automatically turn every roommate into a tenant. LTB Interpretation Guideline 21 explains that an occupant’s payment toward household costs does not by itself make the occupant a tenant. The full facts determine the legal relationship.

    An assignment transfers the tenancy. A sublet generally involves the tenant giving another person possession for a period while retaining a right to return. Both require the landlord’s consent under the RTA.

    Does the roommate have rights under the lease?

    A roommate who is not a tenant named or recognized under the tenancy agreement may not have the same rights against the landlord as the tenant. Their arrangement may instead be with the tenant. Adding someone to the lease usually requires agreement among the relevant parties.

    Can the landlord charge more rent for a roommate?

    A landlord should not assume that adding an occupant permits an unlawful rent increase or separate occupancy fee. The lawful rent, rent-increase rules and any included utilities still need to be considered.

    What if the original tenant moves out?

    If the tenant leaves and another person remains, the situation may become an unauthorized-occupant issue. Section 100 contains a specific LTB process and important timing considerations for landlords.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Keep responsibility for the lease, rent and guest conduct clear.
    • Check municipal occupancy standards and condominium declarations or rules if applicable.
    • Do not call an arrangement a “roommate” when you are actually transferring possession or moving out.
    • Put expectations with the roommate in writing and seek advice about their status.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Identify whether the named tenant still occupies the unit and retains possession.
    • Do not assume payment by an occupant automatically creates or disproves a tenancy.
    • Address concrete overcrowding, damage or interference with evidence and the proper process.
    • Get prompt advice if the tenant leaves and an occupant remains because statutory timelines may apply.

    Example

    The tenant remains in a two-bedroom unit and shares costs with one roommate. That is different from the tenant moving away and handing the entire unit to someone else.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.

  • Can My Landlord Stop Me From Having Guests in Ontario?

    OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question #14

    Browse the full “Can My Landlord?” series

    Last verified: September 15, 2026

    Quick answer: Usually, a landlord cannot impose an arbitrary ban on ordinary guests or charge a tenant a fee simply for having visitors. However, a guest’s conduct can still create legitimate issues involving noise, damage, safety, illegal activity, overcrowding or condominium rules.

    The RTA protects a tenant’s reasonable enjoyment of the rental unit. A lease term that conflicts with the Act is void. Ontario tenancy law also allows landlords to address substantial interference, damage, overcrowding and certain unlawful conduct through the proper notice and LTB process.

    Whether someone is a guest, roommate, subtenant or unauthorized occupant depends on the real arrangement—not just the label used in a message or lease.

    Can a landlord set visiting hours?

    A private residential tenant is generally entitled to decide when ordinary guests visit. Rules designed for genuine safety or shared-facility management may require closer analysis, especially in exempt accommodations, care settings or where the landlord shares a kitchen or bathroom with the occupant.

    Can a guest stay overnight?

    An overnight stay does not automatically make a guest a tenant. Repeated or long-term occupancy can raise different factual questions, but a landlord should not assume that every frequent visitor is an illegal sublet.

    When can guest conduct become a problem?

    A landlord may address excessive noise, harassment, damage, illegal activity or serious interference caused by a person the tenant permits at the property. The focus should be on the conduct and evidence, not merely the visitor’s presence.

    What should a tenant do?

    • Keep guests from creating noise, damage or safety problems and comply with lawful condo or occupancy rules.
    • Do not pay a new “guest fee” without checking whether it is lawful.
    • Clarify in writing if the landlord wrongly describes a visitor as a subtenant.
    • Document threats, repeated interference or discriminatory restrictions and seek advice where needed.

    What should a landlord do?

    • Focus on documented conduct rather than arbitrary guest limits.
    • Confirm whether the situation involves a guest, roommate, assignment or sublet before choosing a response.
    • Use written warnings and the appropriate LTB notice where proven conduct substantially interferes with others.
    • Apply rules consistently and comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code.

    Example

    A friend stays for a weekend and causes no problem. That is generally different from a visitor repeatedly holding loud overnight parties or damaging common areas.

    Official Ontario sources

    Continue the “Can My Landlord?” series

    Browse more plain-language answers to common Ontario rental questions.

    General information only: This article discusses Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. The outcome of a dispute depends on the facts and evidence. Rules and forms can change; verify current information with Tribunals Ontario or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.