Is My Rent Increase Legal? Wizard
A rent increase in Ontario has to follow specific rules on notice, timing, and amount — and the rules differ depending on whether your unit is exempt from the annual guideline. This wizard walks through your situation to give you a personalized compliance outlook.
The Notice
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my landlord increase my rent in Ontario?
Most rent increases are limited to the province's annual rent increase guideline, which is set each year. Increases above the guideline generally require an Above Guideline Increase application approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board, unless the unit is exempt.
Which units are exempt from the rent increase guideline?
Units first occupied for residential purposes after November 15, 2018 are generally exempt from the guideline, along with some other categories such as certain non-profit and social housing. Exempt units can potentially be increased by more than the guideline amount.
How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
A landlord generally must give at least 90 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect, using the proper form and specifying the exact new rent amount and effective date.
Does this wizard give me a final legal determination?
No. This tool identifies the compliance factors relevant to your specific situation — it does not provide a final legal determination, which depends on confirming your unit's exact exemption status and the specific guideline that applied at the time.
Do I have to pay an invalid rent increase?
Generally, no — if an increase doesn't comply with the notice, timing, or amount rules, it is not valid and you are not required to pay it until it is corrected. This should be confirmed for your specific situation before withholding any payment.
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