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Can Tenants Go to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for Harassment in Ontario?

Tenant Rights in Ontario: What to Do if Your Landlord Harasses You

In Ontario, tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). While many disputes between landlords and tenants involve issues like unpaid rent or maintenance, there are also clear rules when it comes to harassment. If you are a tenant and feel that your landlord is harassing you, you do have the right to seek help through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).


What Counts as Harassment?


Harassment doesn’t always mean yelling or threats — it can take many forms. Under Section 22 of the RTA, a landlord, superintendent, or their agent cannot:


  • Harass, obstruct, coerce, threaten, or interfere with you in your rental unit.

  • Interfere with your reasonable enjoyment of the unit or residential complex.


Some examples of landlord harassment include:


  • Demanding payment for questionable or unproven repair invoices.

  • Threatening to call collections or evict you without an LTB order.

  • Showing up unannounced or excessively contacting you.

  • Intimidation, discrimination, or any conduct designed to pressure you unfairly.


What Can Tenants Do if They Feel Harassed?


Tenants have the right to file a T2 application (Application about Tenant Rights) with the LTB. This process allows tenants to formally complain about harassment, threats, or interference with their rights.


When filing a T2, tenants may ask the LTB for:


  • An order to stop the harassment immediately.

  • Compensation or a rent abatement (a reduction in rent).

  • Reimbursement for costs or losses caused by the harassment.

  • An administrative fine against the landlord, up to $35,000 in serious cases.


Collections and Disputed Invoices


Sometimes landlords attempt to charge tenants for repairs or damages without an LTB order. If you refuse to pay and the landlord threatens collections, remember:


  • A landlord should first seek an LTB order or court judgment before demanding payment.

  • Without an order, you are not legally required to pay.

  • If sent to collections, you can dispute the debt in writing with the agency.


This kind of pressure may also be considered harassment, especially if it is ongoing and unreasonable.


Why Tenant Rights Matter


Housing is not just about a roof over your head — it’s about feeling secure and respected in your home. The law in Ontario recognizes this by giving tenants the right to live free from intimidation and harassment.


If you believe your landlord has crossed the line, the Landlord and Tenant Board is there to protect your rights.


Key Takeaway: If you’re a tenant in Ontario facing harassment — whether it’s from unreasonable demands, threats, or intimidation — you have legal options. Filing a T2 application to the LTB can help stop the behaviour, provide compensation, and hold landlords accountable.

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