Lease and Rental Management
Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act sets an annual rent increase guideline that limits how much a landlord can raise rent for most residential tenants without Landlord and Tenant Board approval. For 2026, the guideline is 2.5%.
The guideline applies to most private residential rentals in Ontario, including apartments, houses, and condos that were first occupied for residential purposes before November 15, 2018. Units first occupied after that date are exempt from rent control.
Ontario Tenancy Law
To apply a guideline increase, landlords must provide proper written notice using the prescribed N1 form at least 90 days before the increase takes effect. The increase can only happen once every 12 months per tenancy.
For above-guideline increases, landlords can apply to the LTB if they have experienced extraordinary increases in operating costs (such as municipal taxes, utilities, or capital expenditures). These applications require supporting documentation and are reviewed by the LTB.
Protecting Landlord Rights
Failing to follow proper procedure can invalidate your rent increase. Common errors include: insufficient notice, incorrect form, or increasing rent more than once in 12 months. Always use the current N1 form from the LTB website.
If you're unsure about your rent increase rights and obligations, D&D Property Management handles all rent administration on behalf of our clients — ensuring every increase is properly documented and legally compliant.
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