Ontario Landlords: A Complete Guide to the L7 Application for Transferring a Tenant to Another Rental Unit (2025 Update)

The L7 Application allows Ontario landlords to ask the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for permission to transfer a tenant from their current rental unit to a different rental unit in the same residential complex. This application is used in specific cases where a transfer is necessary for safety, accessibility, maintenance, or operational requirements.

Unlike most LTB applications, the L7 does not seek eviction. Instead, it allows the Board to order a lawful relocation of the tenant under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA).

When an L7 Application Can Be Filed

Landlords may file an L7 when a tenant must be transferred for legitimate reasons, including:

1. The rental unit requires major repairs

Examples:

• Structural issues
• Mold remediation
• Plumbing or electrical replacement
• Repairs requiring the unit to be vacant

2. The tenant requires an accessible or safer unit

Often applies when:

• A tenant develops mobility issues
• Elevator outages or structural barriers exist
• Medical needs require relocation

3. Units need to be rearranged for operational reasons

Such as:

• Vacating a unit for site renovations
• Reconfiguring rental spaces
• Ensuring a tenant moves from a non-compliant unit

An L7 cannot be used as a backdoor eviction. The landlord must justify the transfer and show it is necessary and reasonable.

What the L7 Application Can Achieve

The L7 asks the LTB to issue an order to:

• Allow or require the tenant to move to another unit
• Establish the timing of the transfer
• Confirm rent for the new unit (typically the same unless lawful increases apply)
• Preserve the tenant's rights under the RTA
• Require the landlord to compensate the tenant if necessary

The goal is stability for the tenant and operational flexibility for the landlord.

What Must Be Included in an L7 Application

The L7 requires detailed supporting information:

1. Reason for the Transfer

Landlords must clearly explain:

• Why the current unit is not appropriate
• Why the new unit is necessary
• Whether alternatives were considered

2. Condition of Both Units

Including:

• Current unit's problems
• Suitability of the proposed unit
• Whether rent remains the same
• Whether services and facilities remain equal

3. Timeline

Landlord must provide:

• Proposed move date
• Expected duration of any repairs (if applicable)

4. Evidence Supporting the Request

This may include:

• Engineering reports
• Contractor assessments
• Photographs
• Accessibility reports
• Maintenance logs
• Correspondence with the tenant

5. Details of the New Unit

The landlord must show:

• The new unit is comparable
• The move is fair
• Tenant rights are preserved

Serving the L7 Application

Once the L7 is filed, the LTB will issue:

• A Notice of Hearing
• A copy of the application

These must be served on the tenant following RTA section 191 and the LTB Rules of Procedure. Proof of service may be required at the hearing.

What Happens at the L7 Hearing

The LTB Member will review:

• Whether the transfer is necessary
• Whether the new unit is suitable
• Whether the landlord acted reasonably and in good faith
• Whether the tenant's rights will be preserved
• Whether compensation or accommodations are needed

The tenant may argue against the transfer if:

• The new unit is inferior
• The transfer creates hardship
• The landlord lacks sufficient justification

The LTB may grant:

• A transfer order
• A conditional order
• A modified order requiring compensation
• A dismissal if the landlord's evidence is insufficient

Common Mistakes That Lead to L7 Dismissals

Landlords often encounter problems due to:

• Lack of proof that repairs or issues require relocation
• Proposed unit not being comparable
• Rent increases applied incorrectly
• Missing professional assessments or reports
• Poor communication with the tenant
• Failure to demonstrate necessity
• Not providing enough detail in the application

The LTB requires strong evidence that a relocation is reasonable and appropriate.

When to Seek Assistance

Because L7 applications involve detailed evidence and potential tenant objections, professional assistance may be useful for:

• Preparing and organizing evidence
• Drafting the L7 accurately
• Ensuring compliance with RTA requirements
• Avoiding dismissal due to missing documentation
• Presenting the landlord's case at the hearing

Professionals can help streamline the process and strengthen the landlord's position.