Ontario landlord-tenant rules shift July 1: faster evictions, mandatory payment forms
Ontario's Landlord and Tenant Board has updated processes under Bills 60 and 97, shortening order-review deadlines and tightening payment-agreement rules effective immediately. Tenants gain new air-conditioner rights; landlords face higher penalties for violations.
Effective July 1, 2026, the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) rolled out significant changes to rental law that affect both tenants and landlords navigating disputes, evictions, and payment arrangements.
Key Changes for Tenants and Landlords
The first group of RTA amendments came into force on July 1, 2026, confirmed by the Landlord and Tenant Board in its June 30, 2026 operational update: the 15-day deadline to request a review of an LTB order (down from 30 days), the 7-day AGI document service deadline with a 5-day certificate of service, and the mandatory Payment Agreement Form for repayment plans. Since July 1, 2026, under section 36.1 of the RTA (added by Bill 97), a tenant may install a window or portable air conditioner in their unit after giving the landlord written notice, provided the installation is safe and does not damage the unit.
The first changes took effect July 1, 2026: LTB order review requests must now be filed within 15 days (down from 30), repayment plans must use the mandatory LTB Payment Agreement Form, and maximum RTA fines doubled to $100,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations. A second wave of changes arrives September 21, 2026, including a shorter 7-day notice period for non-payment cases.
Practical Implications for Newcomers
If you're renting in Ontario and face a dispute with your landlord, act fast: you now have only 15 days to appeal an unfavourable LTB order, not 30. Any informal payment plan must now use the LTB's official form or it won't be binding. If your landlord has not provided air conditioning and you'd like to install your own, you may do so as of July 1 (subject to safe installation). Conversely, if you're behind on rent, be aware that starting September 21, landlords need only give 7 days' notice before filing an eviction application. Knowing these timelines and your rights under the updated rules can make the difference between a successful dispute resolution and losing your home. Contact the LTB portal (tribunalsontario.ca) or a community legal clinic for guidance if your lease situation changes.
Sources
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