In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA, 2006) is the cornerstone of landlord-tenant law. It defines what landlords and tenants may and may not do, and how disputes must be settled. If you’re a landlord or tenant (or both), knowing your rights and duties under the RTA can prevent costly mistakes, disputes, and potentially legal consequences. This guide breaks down the key parts you need to know.

1. What the RTA Covers & Why It Matters

• The RTA is a provincial law that regulates most residential tenancies in Ontario.

• It sets rules on rent, maintenance, entry, evictions, and many more foundational areas. 

• Some private agreements or “extra charges” are illegal even if written in a lease—those parts are void or unenforceable. 

2. What Is Illegal for Landlords to Do in Ontario

1. Harass, threaten, or interfere with a tenant’s quiet enjoyment

   • Landlords cannot harass a tenant or interfere with their reasonable enjoyment of the premises. 

   • Examples include repeated unwanted entry, verbal threats, or trying to pressure the tenant to move out. 

2. Enter a unit without proper notice (unless an emergency)

   • Except in emergencies, landlords must provide written notice at least 24 hours in advance and enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. 

   • Entry must be for lawful reasons (repairs, inspection, showing unit, etc.).
     
     

3. Withhold vital services or interfere with their supply

   • Services such as heat, water, electricity, gas are “vital services.” Landlords may not withhold, reduce, or interfere with those. 

   • Doing so is an offence under the RTA.
     
     

4. Charge illegal or unauthorized fees

   • Landlords cannot impose extra fees not allowed or agreed under the RTA. 

   • For example: landlord taxes, general cleaning, arbitrary “maintenance” charges, or fees not in the lease may be illegal.
     
     

5. Evict without proper process or without LTB order

   • Landlords must follow the proper notice forms (N-series) and procedures. 

   • They can’t lock someone out or change locks without an eviction order enforced by the Sheriff. 

3. What Landlords Can Charge for Damages – Limits & Rules

• Tenants are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear, whether caused intentionally or by negligence. 

• The landlord must prove the damage and provide evidence (photos, receipts, repair quotes) when seeking compensation via the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

• The RTA also requires that anyone claiming damages must take reasonable steps to minimize losses (i.e., you can’t let damage worsen and then charge everything).

• There is no fixed “maximum” set in the RTA for damages—amounts will depend on the actual cost and evidence.
  
  

4. Repair & Maintenance: Who Is Responsible for What?

Landlord’s Duties:

• Maintain the rental unit and all items the landlord provides, in a good state of repair. 

• Ensure the premises comply with health, safety, and housing standards.

• Respond to repair requests and address them within a reasonable time. 

Tenant’s Duties:

• Keep the unit reasonably clean and sanitary. 

• Repair or pay for repair of damage caused by themselves, guests, or co-occupants (beyond usual wear and tear). 

• Inform the landlord of needed repairs in a timely manner. 

5. How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix Something in Ontario?

• The RTA itself does not specify exact time limits; it uses the term “reasonable time”. 

• What’s reasonable depends on urgency, the nature of the problem, and whether it affects health or safety. 

• For emergencies (burst pipe, no heat in winter, major electrical fault), landlords are expected to act immediately or nearly immediately.

• For non-urgent issues (a broken window, dripping faucet), it might be days to a couple of weeks, depending on circumstances.

• If repairs are delayed, tenants may file a T6 application at the LTB asking for orders or rent abatement. 

Final Summary

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act lays out a balanced framework between landlords and tenants. Landlords must respect tenants’ rights—no harassment, no illegal fees, proper notice for entry—and maintain properties in good repair. Tenants must pay rent, keep the unit clean, notify the landlord of needed repairs, and only be responsible for damage beyond normal wear. When disputes arise, evidence, documentation, and recourse through the Landlord and Tenant Board are essential. Understanding these rules helps both sides avoid conflict and ensures the tenancy runs smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is illegal for landlords to do in Ontario?

• Harass or threaten tenants or interfere with their peaceful enjoyment

• Enter the unit without proper notice or at improper times (except emergencies)

• Withhold vital services (heat, water, electricity, gas)

• Charge unauthorized or illegal fees

• Evict without following the proper legal process or without an eviction order

2. What is the most a landlord can charge for damages?
There’s no fixed cap. The landlord can charge for the actual costs of repair or replacement, supported by evidence, but must also minimize losses.

3. What repairs are tenants responsible for in Ontario?
Tenants must repair or pay for damage they (or their guests) cause beyond normal wear and tear. They also must notify the landlord of needed repairs.

4. How long does a landlord have to fix something in Ontario?
There’s no fixed timeline in the RTA—repairs must be done within a reasonable time. Urgent issues require prompt action; less urgent ones may take days to weeks depending on circumstances.

5. Can a landlord charge for damages in Ontario?
Yes—if damage is above normal wear and tear, and if they can prove it, a landlord may recover costs through the LTB or as part of termination proceedings.

Being a landlord can be rewarding — but it’s easy to fall into traps that cost time, money, or even lead to legal headaches. Whether you’re new to renting or have managed properties for years, knowing the common pitfalls (and how to avoid them) will help you protect your investment and keep your tenants happy.

At GTA Landlord, we help property owners across the Greater Toronto Area navigate everything from tenant placement and lease management to full-service property management, ensuring your rental business runs smoothly and profitably.

Here are the 10 most common mistakes landlords make in Canada — and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Tenant Screening

Mistake:
Skipping background checks, failing to verify income, or not contacting past landlords can result in unreliable tenants or payment issues.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a standardized rental application

• Verify employment and income sources

• Review credit reports and request landlord references

✅ Pro Tip: GTA Landlord offers a comprehensive Tenant Screening Program that includes credit, employment, and background verification — helping you secure reliable tenants with confidence.

2. Using Verbal Agreements or Weak Written Leases

Mistake:
Relying on verbal promises or incomplete lease agreements often leads to confusion and disputes later on.

How to Avoid It:

• Always use a detailed written lease

• Follow your province’s standard lease template (e.g. Ontario Standard Lease)

• Include clear rules about pets, smoking, maintenance, and notice periods

At GTA Landlord, we prepare compliant, legally sound leases customized to each property — protecting you and your investment.

3. Ignoring Landlord-Tenant Laws

Mistake:
Not knowing the rules around rent increases, evictions, or maintenance obligations can lead to legal trouble.

How to Avoid It:

• Stay informed about your province’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

• Consult reliable landlord resources

• Seek advice before issuing notices or evictions

Our experts stay updated on Ontario’s landlord-tenant laws to ensure your rentals remain compliant and protected.

4. Delaying or Neglecting Maintenance

Mistake:
Ignoring small repairs or safety issues can turn minor fixes into costly renovations.

How to Avoid It:

• Schedule regular inspections

• Respond quickly to maintenance requests

• Keep records of all repairs with photos and receipts

GTA Landlord coordinates reliable contractors and maintenance services, so your property stays in top condition year-round.

5. Poor Communication

Mistake:
Lack of timely or professional communication can damage the landlord-tenant relationship.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep all correspondence in writing

• Set clear expectations for communication

• Respond promptly to tenant concerns

Our team handles all tenant inquiries on your behalf, ensuring smooth, respectful communication that keeps tenants satisfied.

6. Financial Mis-Planning

Mistake:
Many landlords underestimate expenses or fail to plan for vacancies and unexpected costs.

How to Avoid It:

• Maintain an emergency fund

• Track rental income and expenses closely

• Budget for property taxes, insurance, and upkeep

With GTA Landlord’s management services, you get detailed financial reporting and expense tracking for full transparency.

7. Mishandling Security Deposits

Mistake:
Withholding or delaying deposit returns without justification can lead to tenant disputes or legal claims.

How to Avoid It:

• Know what deductions are legally allowed

• Document the property condition before and after tenancy

• Return deposits promptly

Our process ensures all deposits are handled legally and documented properly to protect your rights as a landlord.

8. Illegal or Discriminatory Practices

Mistake:
Asking questions about race, family status, or religion during screening violates human rights laws.

How to Avoid It:

• Review the Ontario Human Rights Code

• Focus on rental history, income, and creditworthiness — not personal details

GTA Landlord’s screening procedures are fully compliant with Canadian privacy and human rights standards.

9. Improper Eviction Procedures

Mistake:
Evicting a tenant without proper legal notice or cause can backfire.

How to Avoid It:

• Use the correct LTB form (e.g., N4, N5, N12, etc.)

• Provide the required notice period

• Keep thorough records

We assist landlords through the full eviction process, ensuring every step follows Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board guidelines.

10. Poor Record Keeping

Mistake:
Failing to document leases, payments, or maintenance records leaves landlords exposed in disputes.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep organized digital records

• Save all communications and receipts

• Photograph the unit before and after each tenancy

Our management platform keeps your documentation secure and accessible anytime you need it.

Final Thoughts

Landlording in Canada isn’t just about collecting rent — it’s about managing a professional, compliant, and well-structured business. Avoiding these mistakes can save you legal trouble, reduce turnover, and improve profitability.

If you’re ready to simplify your rental experience, visit www.gtalandlord.ca to learn more about our Tenant Placement, Full-Service Property Management, and Landlord Support Programs — trusted by property owners across the Greater Toronto Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What not to say to your landlord?
Avoid saying anything that implies a lease violation (e.g., unauthorized sublets or repairs). Keep communication factual and professional.

2. What’s the most you can sue your landlord for in Ontario?
As of October 1, 2025, the Landlord and Tenant Board’s limit increased to $50,000. Claims above that may go to Small Claims Court.

3. What is a bad tenant list in Canada?
Unofficial “bad tenant lists” may violate privacy laws. Use regulated tenant bureaus or credit agencies for verified rental histories.

4. What’s the most common action taken against tenants who breach their lease?
Landlords typically issue a notice of breach (e.g. N4, N5, or N12) before applying for eviction through the LTB.

Finding the right tenant is one of the most important steps in protecting your rental property investment. A thorough screening process helps you avoid costly evictions, late payments, and property damage. But what exactly should landlords check when screening tenants? Here’s the ultimate tenant screening checklist—covering credit, background, employment, references, and common red flags.

1. Credit Check

• Why it matters: A tenant’s credit history shows how reliably they pay bills and manage debt.

• What to look for:

  • Consistent, on-time payments.

  • No major delinquencies, bankruptcies, or collections.

  • Reasonable debt-to-income ratio.
    
    

• Red flag: Multiple missed payments or large unpaid debts.

2. Employment & Income Verification

• Why it matters: Stable income ensures rent can be paid on time.

• What to check:

  • Employment letter confirming position, salary, and status (permanent vs. contract).

  • Recent pay stubs (usually last 2–3 months).

  • Bank statements if self-employed.
    
    

• Red flag: Income less than 3x the rent or unverifiable employment.

3. Rental History & References

• Why it matters: Past behaviour is a good predictor of future behaviour.

• What to check:

  • Contact previous landlords for payment history, property care, and overall reliability.

  • Confirm length of tenancy and reasons for moving.
    
    

• Red flag: A landlord who hesitates or avoids giving details—or reports unpaid rent or property damage.

4. Background Check

• Why it matters: Helps identify risks related to criminal activity or past evictions.

• What to check:

  • Court records (where legally accessible).

  • Eviction history databases.

  • Public record searches.
    
    

• Red flag: Recent eviction filings or repeated legal disputes with landlords.

5. Identity Verification

• Why it matters: Confirms the applicant is who they claim to be.

• What to check:

  • Government-issued photo ID (driver’s licence, passport).

  • Cross-check name and date of birth with credit and employment records.
    
    

• Red flag: Mismatched information or refusal to provide valid ID.

6. Assessing Red Flags Holistically

• A single issue (like minor credit blemishes) isn’t always a dealbreaker.

• Look for patterns: repeated late payments, inconsistent job history, or multiple landlord disputes.

• Balance risk with context—sometimes life events temporarily impact finances but don’t reflect long-term reliability.
  
  

Final Summary

Tenant screening isn’t about finding a “perfect” tenant—it’s about reducing risk and selecting someone responsible and stable. By carefully reviewing credit, employment, rental history, background, and ID, landlords can protect their property and ensure smoother tenancies. A strong screening process saves time, money, and stress in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is included in a tenant screening checklist?
It typically covers credit history, employment verification, rental references, background checks, and identity confirmation.

2. How do landlords check if a tenant is reliable?
They use a combination of credit reports, income documents, and past landlord references to assess payment reliability and overall behaviour.

3. What red flags should landlords look for when screening tenants?
Unverifiable employment, poor credit history, prior evictions, inconsistent information, or negative landlord references are major red flags.

4. How do I verify a tenant’s employment in Canada?
Request an employment letter, pay stubs, or bank statements. Landlords may also contact the employer directly (with the tenant’s consent).

5. Is tenant screening mandatory in Ontario?
No, it’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Landlords are legally allowed to request certain information (credit, employment, references) as long as they comply with Ontario’s Human Rights Code.

Toronto’s rental market is one of the most competitive in Canada. While demand is high, not every applicant will be the right fit for your property. As a landlord, finding qualified tenants means striking the right balance between maximizing rental income and minimizing risk. By following these seven steps, you’ll be able to attract reliable renters while staying compliant with Ontario’s laws.

1. Prepare Your Property for the Market

• Ensure compliance: Confirm the unit meets Ontario’s health, safety, and maintenance standards.

• Upgrade strategically: Small touches like fresh paint, modern lighting, and working appliances appeal to quality tenants.

• Professional cleaning: A spotless, move-in ready unit sets the tone for respect and responsibility.

2. Set a Competitive Rent Price

• Market research: Compare similar listings in your Toronto neighbourhood.

• Factor in amenities: Units with parking, in-suite laundry, or proximity to transit justify higher rents.

• Avoid overpricing: A high rent may attract fewer applications, leaving you with desperate or unqualified tenants.

3. Advertise Effectively

• Use multiple platforms: Realtor.ca, Zumper, Facebook Marketplace, and local classifieds.

• High-quality visuals: Professional photos and video tours generate more inquiries.

• Clear descriptions: Highlight features (pet-friendly, balcony, utilities included) and set expectations (no smoking, credit checks required).

4. Pre-Screen Applicants Early

• Initial questionnaire: Ask about employment, move-in date, pets, and household size before scheduling viewings.

• Phone or video calls: Quick conversations can reveal professionalism and compatibility.

• Respect privacy: Gather only information allowed under Ontario’s Human Rights Code.

5. Show the Unit Professionally

• Flexible timing: Offer evening and weekend viewings to increase turnout.

• Be transparent: Answer questions honestly about utilities, condo fees, or neighbourhood noise.

• Observe behaviour: Punctuality, preparedness, and respect at showings are often good indicators of future tenancy.

6. Conduct Thorough Screening

• Credit check: Use landlord services like Equifax or Naborly to review payment history.

• Employment verification: Request a job letter and recent pay stubs.

• References: Speak directly with past landlords to confirm reliability.

• Tenant consent: Always get written permission before conducting background checks.

7. Finalize with a Strong Lease Agreement

• Use Ontario’s standard lease: This ensures compliance with provincial rules.

• Add clear clauses: Cover rent due dates, responsibilities, and rules for pets or smoking.

• Collect legal deposits only: In Ontario, landlords can request a rent deposit (last month’s rent) but not security deposits.

• Document condition: Complete a move-in inspection checklist with photos to avoid disputes later.
  
  

Final Summary

Finding qualified tenants in Toronto doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By preparing your property, marketing strategically, pre-screening applicants, and following Ontario’s legal framework, you can attract responsible renters and reduce turnover headaches. Remember: the right tenant not only pays rent on time but also respects your property and helps protect your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to find good tenants in Ontario?
Advertise widely, use detailed listings, and conduct proper screening (credit checks, references, and employment verification). A strong lease and professional communication also help attract quality tenants.

2. How to attract high quality tenants?
Offer a clean, well-maintained property at a fair price, highlight desirable features, and be responsive during the application process. Professional presentation often attracts professional renters.

3. Is there a list for bad tenants?
Ontario does not maintain an official “bad tenant list” due to privacy laws. However, landlord services and tenant screening platforms provide tools to check credit and rental history legally.

4. How to identify tenants?
Request government-issued photo ID during the application process and cross-verify with references and employment documents. Always follow Ontario privacy and human rights regulations.

5. How to find tenant details?
With the tenant’s consent, you can use services like Equifax, Naborly, or RentCheck to gather details such as credit scores, payment history, and past rental references.

Vacancies are costly. Every day your unit sits empty, you're losing potential rental income while still paying for mortgage, taxes, and maintenance. To maximize profits, a short turnaround and high occupancy rate are essential. Below are seven proven strategies Canadian landlords—especially in Ontario—can use to reduce vacancy time and improve profitability.

1. Price Smartly & Responsively

• Market research: Evaluate comparable rents in your area (same neighbourhood, number of bedrooms, amenities).

• Competitive incentives: Offer move-in specials (e.g. first month half off, free parking for 3 months) rather than huge rent cuts.

• Be flexible: For strong tenants, slightly below market rent may retain income and reduce turnover cost.
  
  

2. Keep the Unit in Move-In Ready Condition

• Routine maintenance: Address smaller repairs proactively (paint touchups, fix leaky faucets) so the unit is always ready.

• Deep cleaning: Before listing, ensure the unit is spotless—clean carpets, windows, kitchen, bathroom, etc.

• Neutral decor: Use neutral colours and materials that appeal broadly, reducing objections from prospective renters.

• Efficient upgrades: Replace aging appliances or make small improvements (e.g., better lighting, smart thermostat) that add appeal and justify higher rent.
  
  

3. Market Aggressively & Creatively

• Multichannel listings: Use online platforms (e.g. Realtor.ca, Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace), but also local bulletin boards or community groups.

• High-quality visuals: Use sharp, well-lit photos and video walkthroughs or virtual tours to generate excitement.

• Highlight features: Emphasize selling points—proximity to transit, schools, parks, amenities (in-suite laundry, parking, storage).

• Quick listing: Post within a day or two after turnover to capture early interest.
  
  

4. Streamline Application & Move-In Process

• Online applications: Use digital forms, credit checks, and e-signing to speed up tenant approval.

• Pre-screening: Ask preliminary questions (income, pets, move-in date) before scheduling showings.

• Flexible showing hours: Offer evening or weekend showings to accommodate working renters.

• Bundle tasks: Coordinate cleaning, repairs, and inspections to overlap where possible so the unit can be shown even before full turnover finishes.
  
  

5. Retain Good Tenants

• Communication: Stay responsive to tenant concerns and maintenance issues—happy tenants are more likely to renew.

• Renewal incentives: Offer small perks for lease renewals (e.g. small appliance upgrade, paint refresh, slight rent freeze).

• Adjust timing: Reach out early—3–4 months before lease ends—to discuss renewal.

• Understand rent pressures: Use lease renewal discussions to justify any increases with documented cost changes or improvements.

6. Optimize Turnover Timing

• Minimize vacancy window: Time the lease ending such that the unit becomes available in high-demand months (spring/summer).

• Back-to-back scheduling: Plan final inspection, cleaning, and required repairs immediately following move-out, leaving zero lag time.

• Partial occupancy: If an approved tenant is ready before the prior tenant fully leaves, negotiate overlapping days (if legal/feasible).

• Seasonal strategy: Avoid ending leases during slow leasing seasons (winter) where possible.

7. Use Metrics and Continuous Improvement

• Track key metrics: Vacancy days per unit, turnover costs, cause of move-out (tenant initiated vs. eviction), renewal rate.

• Analyze patterns: If units in a certain building or floor seem slower to rent, investigate causes (noise, lighting, views).

• Adjust pricing and policies: Use data to fine-tune rent, lease lengths, pet policies, or marketing.

• Solicit feedback: Ask departing tenants why they left—and prospective ones why they didn’t choose your property.
  

How GTA Landlord Can Help

At GTA Landlord, we know vacancy is one of the biggest challenges for property owners. That’s why our team of experienced real estate professionals specializes in helping landlords across the GTA:

• ✅ Finding qualified renters quickly through aggressive marketing and tenant screening

• ✅ Full property management services to handle maintenance, renewals, and inspections

• ✅ Legal and contractual documentation to ensure compliance and protect your investment

By working with GTA Landlord, you can cut down vacancy time, improve tenant quality, and enjoy true peace of mind.

Final Summary

Reducing vacancy time is about being proactive: maintain your properties well, price competitively, market smartly, process applications rapidly, and keep good tenants. Over time, your turnover costs shrink and occupancy rates rise—boosting your net returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ideal rental vacancy rate?
In many markets, a 3% to 5% vacancy rate is considered healthy—it gives flexibility for tenant turnover while still maintaining good occupancy. Lower than that might indicate underpricing or overuse; significantly higher signals inefficiency or weak demand.

2. Can I ask my landlord to reduce the rent?
Yes— you can always ask. Whether they agree depends on your leverage (length of tenancy, market conditions). But they aren’t legally required to reduce unless your lease allows it or local rent laws/regulations mandate it.

3. What is the highest percentage a landlord can raise rent?
In Ontario for 2025, the rent increase guideline is 2.5% for most units. 

 If a landlord wants to raise more than that, they must apply for an Above Guideline Increase (AGI) via the Landlord and Tenant Board and justify it (e.g. for major capital expenses). 

4. What is the rental cap for 2025?
The cap or guideline—the maximum regular increase without special approval—is 2.5 % in Ontario for 2025. 

5. How much can a landlord increase rent for 2025?

• For protected units, up to 2.5% for a standard increase. 

• For increases beyond 2.5%, they must apply for an AGI. In certain cases (capital expenditures, security services) the Board may allow up to 3% above the guideline annually (i.e. guideline + 3%) for those specific reasons. 

• There is no fixed ceiling above the guideline for municipal tax increases—those may be considered “extraordinary” and can exceed the cap if approved.