Ontario Evictions 2025: What Tenants & Landlords MUST Know About LTB Delays

Eviction timelines in Ontario continue to evolve, and delays at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) remain one of the most significant challenges facing both landlords and tenants. Whether a case involves non-payment of rent, persistent issues, or a landlord's request to reclaim the unit, the LTB backlog directly affects how quickly matters progress.

Because eviction procedures fall under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), both parties must follow strict legal rules while navigating an often slow and unpredictable system. This article explains what causes LTB delays, how they impact evictions in 2025, and how landlords and tenants can prepare effectively.

Current Eviction Timelines in Ontario

While timelines differ across Ontario, several common trends apply in 2025:

Hearing Scheduling Delays

Many N4/L1 non-payment applications continue to take several weeks—or longer—to be scheduled. Other notices, such as N5 (interference or damage) or N12/N13 (landlord's own use or demolition/renovation), may also experience extended wait times depending on case volume.

Virtual Hearings

Most hearings are conducted via Zoom. This can reduce some delays, but technical issues, missed emails, or problems accessing the hearing link can slow the process or lead to rescheduling.

Filing Requirements

Despite delays, all parties must still follow:

• Strict notice requirements
• Evidence submission timelines
• Proper service rules
• LTB communication procedures

Mistakes in these areas often extend the process even further.

How LTB Delays Affect Landlords

Extended timelines create several difficulties for landlords:

Growing Rent Arrears

When a tenant is not paying rent, arrears can accumulate significantly before a hearing is scheduled.

Prolonged Occupancy

Even after serving a valid notice, a landlord cannot require a tenant to leave until the LTB issues an eviction order and, if necessary, the Sheriff enforces it.

Increased Risk of Dismissals

Errors in notice periods, service methods, or documentation can lead to dismissed applications, forcing landlords to restart the process from the beginning.

To minimize delays, landlords should keep detailed records, a complete rent ledger, written communications, and organized evidence.

How LTB Delays Affect Tenants

Tenants also experience challenges due to the backlog:

Uncertainty and Stress

Slow timelines leave tenants unsure about move-out dates, hearing outcomes, or the time required to secure new housing.

Missed Communications

The LTB sends most correspondence electronically. Missing an email can result in a hearing being held without the tenant present.

Opportunities for Resolution

Because delays extend the process, tenants may have more time to:

• Negotiate repayment plans
• Dispute incorrect arrears
• Gather evidence
• Seek legal assistance
• Explore rental assistance programs

Common Mistakes or Misconceptions

• "An N4 means I have to move out immediately." Incorrect. An N4 is a notice, not an eviction order.
• "Landlords can evict without a hearing." Only the LTB and Sheriff enforce evictions.
• "If I miss my Zoom hearing, it will be rescheduled automatically." It usually will not—an order may be issued without tenant participation.
• "Delays mean the landlord cannot pursue the case." The landlord may continue the application even during long scheduling periods.
• "Paying part of the arrears will stop the process." Only full payment voids an N4.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

A licensed paralegal can help when:

• You receive any eviction notice
• A landlord files an L1 or L2 application
• You believe the notice or arrears are incorrect
• You need representation at an LTB hearing
• Timelines and procedures feel overwhelming
• Negotiations break down between the parties

Professional guidance helps ensure procedural compliance and a clear strategy throughout the eviction process.

Sources

1. Ontario Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — Government of Ontario
   https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06r17
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario) — Procedures and Forms
   https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/
3. CLEO Steps to Justice — Housing Law Resources
   https://stepstojustice.ca/