What is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)?
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is the law that sets the rules for rent increases, evictions, repairs, and many other issues that affect tenants.If you rent your apartment, room, or house, the RTA probably affects you.
But some rental housing is not covered by the RTA. For example, you might not be covered if you live in a place that is supposed to be used for business, share a kitchen or bathroom with the owner or a close family member of the owner, or live in some types of temporary or seasonal housing.
Also, the RTA does not cover some types of shared living. If you share rental housing or you rent from another tenant, CLEO's online tool at www.cleo.on.ca/roommates can help you find out if you are covered.
If your housing is not covered by the RTA, the information in this booklet does not apply to you. If you are not sure, find out where to get legal advice starting in Where to get more information and help.
Rent Increases
Landlords will be permitted to increase rent in 2023 according to government guidelines and will be able to give notice for that near the end of 2022.
In 2023, the maximum they can raise rent (the "rent increase guideline") is 2.5% of your current rent.
As a renter, it's important to understand the rules around rental increases in Ontario: landlords can only raise rent once in a 12-month period, they must give you a minimum of 90 days' notice using an N1 form.
Check out any of the resources provided here, or follow this link for more information:
- Rent Increases
- Harassment and Discrimination
- Can your Landlord take your stuff?
- Eviction requirements
- Moving Out
- What tenants need to know about the law
- Standard Lease
If you have any questions or concerns about Off-Campus Housing please contact us at oc.utm@utoronto.ca.