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.

Finding reliable, respectful, and financially stable tenants starts long before showings or applications. It begins with how you market your rental property. The quality of your photos, listing description, and advertising channels directly affects the type of renters you attract.

High-quality tenants look for professionalism, clarity, and value. If your marketing reflects that, you will attract better applicants and reduce vacancy time. Below is a practical, proven approach that works in today’s Ontario rental market.

Use Multiple Marketing Channels

Relying on one platform limits your reach. Strong rental marketing uses a combination of channels to capture serious renters wherever they are searching.

Online listing platforms like Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, and Kijiji remain essential. Social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram help extend visibility, especially when listings are shared within local community groups. Referrals and word of mouth also play a role, particularly for well-maintained properties in desirable neighbourhoods.

The goal is simple: consistent exposure across trusted platforms.

Optimize Your Rental Listing for Search (SEO)

Most tenants start their search online using specific terms like “two-bedroom condo in Toronto” or “pet-friendly apartment near transit.” Your listing should reflect how renters actually search.

Use clear, specific language that includes the neighbourhood, transit access, nearby amenities, and unit features. Highlight what differentiates your property, such as a balcony, parking, in-unit laundry, or modern appliances. Well-written listings not only rank better but also attract more qualified applicants.

Invest in Professional Photography

Photos are the first filter tenants use. Poor images often result in fewer inquiries and lower-quality applicants.

Use natural daylight whenever possible. Keep the unit clean, uncluttered, and staged simply. Capture wide angles that show layout and flow, and make sure standout features are clearly visible. High-quality photos signal that the landlord is professional and attentive.

Write a Clear and Professional Description

A strong rental description saves time by setting expectations upfront.

Start with the essentials: rent, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and location. Clearly state policies on pets, parking, and smoking. Then explain the lifestyle benefits, such as proximity to transit, parks, schools, or shopping.

Clear and professional language attracts serious tenants and discourages unqualified inquiries.

Use Social Media Strategically

Many renters now discover listings through social platforms. Short video tours and walkthroughs perform especially well.

Posting on Facebook Marketplace, local rental groups, and Instagram increases reach. Focus on clarity, not hype. Clean visuals and straightforward information outperform overly promotional content.

Highlight Value, Not Just Price

High-quality tenants look beyond rent. They want value.

Mention energy-efficient appliances, smart home features, secure entry, or building amenities like gyms and concierge services. If utilities or parking are included, make that clear. These details justify pricing and appeal to tenants who plan to stay long term.

Time Your Marketing Carefully

Seasonality matters in Ontario.

Spring and summer bring the highest demand, especially from families and students. Early fall is also strong. Winter leasing is slower, but pricing incentives or flexible move-in dates can help maintain interest during quieter months.

When to Get Professional Help

Marketing a rental properly takes time and experience. Many landlords turn to professional support to avoid mistakes and attract stronger tenants.

At https://gtalandlord.ca/, landlords can access resources and services focused on tenant screening, rental marketing, and risk reduction. Professional support often leads to faster leasing and better long-term outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Attracting high-quality tenants is not about luck. It’s about presenting your rental property professionally and strategically. Strong photos, SEO-optimized listings, multi-channel exposure, and clear communication consistently lead to better renters.

Quality marketing brings quality tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to advertise a rental property in Ontario?
A combination of online listing platforms, social media exposure, and local community sharing delivers the strongest results.

2. How do I write an effective rental advertisement?
Start with key facts, highlight unique features, describe the location clearly, and use professional language supported by quality photos.

3. What is the most common rental advertising platform?
Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, and Kijiji remain the most widely used platforms, followed closely by Facebook Marketplace.

4. What adds the most value to a rental property?
Modern kitchens, in-unit laundry, energy-efficient appliances, parking, and location near transit or amenities.

5. When is the best time to rent a property?
May through August typically offers the highest demand and the largest pool of qualified applicants.

Your Guide to Safer Tenants, Stronger Screening, and Fewer Rental Risks

The rental landscape in Ontario continues to shift, and landlords across the Greater Toronto Area face more challenges than ever. From stricter regulations to rising application fraud, managing a rental property without a clear strategy is risky.
At GTA Landlord, our goal is to give landlords the tools and support they need to protect their investments and stay compliant.

Here’s how GTA landlords can stay ahead in 2025.

Strong Tenant Screening Is Your First Line of Defense

Good tenants make good rentals. A single bad applicant can lead to months of unpaid rent, property damage, and long LTB delays.

Effective screening includes:
• Verified income and employment
• Full credit checks
• Valid government ID matching the application
• Rental history with confirmed landlord references
• Fraud detection (fake documents are increasing in Ontario)

Many landlords lose money because they skip these steps or rely on incomplete information.

Always Use a Legally Compliant Lease

Ontario’s Standard Lease Agreement is mandatory. Using outdated or non-compliant leases leaves landlords unprotected.

A proper lease clarifies:
• Rent amount and due dates
• Utility responsibilities
• Rules for the property
• Required notices
• Consequences of lease violations

Clear documentation prevents disputes and protects you at the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Document the Condition of Your Rental

Before move-in, complete a detailed inspection with photos and timestamps. This protects you if damages occur.

Document:
• Walls, floors, and appliances
• Washrooms and kitchens
• Balconies and exterior access
• Existing wear and tear

A signed inspection record avoids arguments about responsibility later.

Understand Ontario’s Legal Timelines

Ontario’s rental system has very strict rules around notices and procedures.
Incorrect forms or missed steps can delay eviction by months.

Key areas landlords must understand:
• N4 – Non-payment of rent
• N5 – Damage or disturbance
• N12 – Landlord’s own use
• LTB hearing process and wait times

Knowledge of these timelines is essential to avoid costly mistakes.

Keep Communication Professional

Clear written communication helps resolve issues faster and protects you if a dispute arises.

Good communication means:
• Confirming conversations in writing
• Keeping all records organized
• Responding promptly but professionally
• Avoiding emotional or confrontational messages

A calm, documented approach is the safest path for landlords.

Consider Professional Management Support

Many GTA landlords now choose management services because the rental process has become more complex.
A management partner prevents mistakes, screens tenants thoroughly, handles maintenance, and ensures legal compliance.

This is especially helpful for:
• First-time landlords
• Investors with multiple properties
• Owners living outside the GTA
• Busy professionals

Professional support reduces stress and helps you get better long-term results.

Final Thoughts

Being a landlord in Ontario requires strong systems, legal knowledge, and careful screening. With the right strategy, you can protect your property, avoid problem tenants, and enjoy stable rental income.

GTA landlords looking for support can explore more tools, guides, and assistance at:
👉 https://gtalandlord.ca/

FAQs for GTA Landlords

1. What is the biggest mistake landlords make in Ontario?

Poor screening. Most rental problems begin with accepting the wrong tenant.

2. Can I choose my tenant based on income?

You may assess affordability, but decisions must follow human rights guidelines.

3. How long does it take to evict a tenant in Ontario?

Timelines vary. Non-payment cases can take several months depending on LTB backlog.

4. What documents should I collect from a tenant?

Application form, ID, income proof, credit check, and past landlord references.

5. Should I hire a property management company?

Many landlords benefit from professional screening and legal compliance support, especially in Ontario's strict rental system. You can check turnkeyrentalmanagement.com