Receiving an eviction notice can be stressful, but as a tenant in Ontario, you have rights and options. Landlords must follow legal procedures, and not all eviction notices mean you have to leave immediately. This guide will help you understand what to do when you receive an eviction notice and how to protect yourself.

Step 1: Understand Your Eviction Notice

In Ontario, landlords must use an official Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) form to serve an eviction notice. The type of notice you receive depends on the reason for eviction. Common forms include:

• N4: Non-Payment of Rent – You have 14 days (or 7 days for weekly tenancies) to pay before the landlord can file for eviction.
• N5: Damage or Interference – You have 7 days to correct the issue.
• N6: Illegal Activity – No option to correct; the landlord can file immediately.
• N7: Serious Problems – No correction period, immediate filing allowed.
• N12: Landlord Needs the Unit – 60 days’ notice required, with possible compensation.
• N13: Demolition or Renovation – 120 days’ notice required, with potential right to return.

For more details on eviction notice types, visit the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board website here.

Step 2: Verify if the Eviction is Legal

Not all eviction notices are valid. Landlords cannot evict tenants for reasons like personal disagreements or retaliation.

🚫 Illegal Evictions Include:

• No proper LTB form used
• Eviction given without proper notice
• Landlord harassing or forcing a tenant out

If your landlord is attempting an illegal eviction, do not move out and consider filing a complaint with the LTB here.

Step 3: Responding to an N4 (Non-Payment of Rent)

If you received an N4 eviction notice for unpaid rent, you have options:

✅ Pay the rent owed within the notice period – This cancels the eviction.✅ Negotiate a payment plan with your landlord – Get an agreement in writing.✅ Apply for rent assistance – Programs like Ontario Works may help.✅ File a Tenant Application with the LTB if you believe your eviction is unfair.

For more guidance on rent disputes, check out How to Handle a Rent Dispute with Your Landlord.

Step 4: Challenging an Eviction at the Landlord and Tenant Board

If your landlord proceeds with eviction, they must file an L2 Application to End a Tenancy with the LTB. You will receive a hearing date where you can challenge the eviction.

How to Prepare for Your Hearing:

• Gather evidence (emails, texts, photos, lease agreement)
• Bring witnesses who can support your case
• Prepare a written statement explaining why the eviction is unfair
• Consider legal representation (paralegals can assist in LTB hearings)

For a step-by-step breakdown of the hearing process, visit Ontario’s LTB Hearing Guide.

Step 5: What If You Lose the Hearing?

If the LTB rules in favor of the landlord, you still have time before you must vacate.

• You will receive an order with a move-out date (usually 7-14 days after the decision).
• You can file an appeal if you believe there was an error.
• Sheriff enforcement is required – Your landlord cannot physically remove you without the sheriff.

For more on tenant protections, check out Your Rights Against Illegal Evictions in Ontario.

Step 6: Exploring Other Housing Options

If eviction is unavoidable, start looking for new housing options early.

🏠 Consider these resources:

• Local tenant support organizations (e.g., ACTO Ontario)
• Ontario housing assistance programs (see here)
• Short-term rental options

Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights and Take Action

Facing eviction is stressful, but you have legal protections. Understand your eviction notice, know your options, and seek legal help if needed. If you need personalized assistance, contact Carson Frankum for expert tenant representation.