Understanding your options for resolving conflicts through the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board
Ontario's Landlord and Tenant Board provides several pathways for resolving disputes between landlords and tenants. The appropriate method depends on the nature and severity of the conflict.
Many disputes can be resolved through direct communication. Document all agreements in writing.
When to use: Best for minor issues like maintenance requests or clarifying lease terms
Send written notice to the other party outlining the issue and requested resolution with timelines.
When to use: Required before filing LTB applications for most issues
Voluntary mediation with a neutral mediator before or instead of a formal hearing. Free service through LTB.
When to use: When both parties want to avoid a hearing and reach mutual agreement
Formal adjudication where both parties present evidence and an adjudicator issues a legally binding order.
When to use: When negotiation and mediation fail, or for serious violations requiring orders
Landlord Files:
L1 (after N4 notice)
Tenant Files:
T1 (illegal rent increase), T2 (maintenance issues)
Typical Resolution:
Payment plan, rent abatement, or eviction order
Landlord Files:
N/A
Tenant Files:
T2 (interference with reasonable enjoyment), T6 (maintenance)
Typical Resolution:
Repair orders, rent abatement, compensation
Landlord Files:
N/A
Tenant Files:
T2 (breach of privacy rights)
Typical Resolution:
Compensation, cease and desist orders
Landlord Files:
L2 (after N5/N6/N7)
Tenant Files:
N/A
Typical Resolution:
Behavior orders or eviction
Landlord Files:
L3 (above guideline increase)
Tenant Files:
T1 (illegal increase)
Typical Resolution:
Rent rolled back or increase approved
Complete Proper Notice (if required)
Serve appropriate N-form or written notice to other party
Complete LTB Application Form
Choose correct form (L1, L2, T1, T2, T6, etc.)
Pay Filing Fee
$201 for most landlord applications, $53 for tenant applications
Submit Application
Online through LTB website or by mail/in person
Receive Hearing Notice
LTB schedules hearing (currently 6-12+ months wait time)
Attend Hearing
Present evidence, witnesses, and arguments to adjudicator
Receive Decision
Adjudicator issues binding order (may be same day or within weeks)
Royal York Property Management handles tenant disputes professionally with extensive LTB experience