Raising tenant issues at a rent arrears hearing

Ontario changed the requirements for raising certain tenant issues at a landlord's rent arrears hearing. If the landlord's application was filed on or after September 21, 2026, the tenant must pay the landlord at least half the claimed rent arrears at least seven days before the hearing to raise those issues through this process.

The payment must go directly to the landlord, and proof should be kept. Written descriptions of the issues and supporting evidence also have disclosure requirements. These rules concern raising other tenant issues; they should not be confused with the right to challenge whether the landlord's rent calculation is correct. Obtain advice immediately about compliance, any applicable exception, and whether a separate tenant application is appropriate for the circumstances.

Identify the landlord's application date, the hearing date, and the exact issues the tenant wants considered. Those facts determine which current requirements need assessment. Prepare the written description of each issue with supporting documents and a clear explanation of the relief sought. A general reference to repairs may not communicate the specific condition, dates, notice to the landlord, or amount requested. Keep proof of delivery to both the landlord and LTB, and proof of any payment required for this procedure.

If complying with the conditions presents a problem, obtain advice immediately about the available process and any relevant Human Rights Code obligation. Do not assume that arriving at the hearing with photographs will permit the issues to be raised. A separate tenant application may need consideration, with its own grounds, deadlines, and disclosure requirements. Keep the rent accounting and tenant issues organized together but explain each independently. Early preparation helps the parties understand both the arrears claim and the procedural route for addressing the tenant's allegations fairly.

Sources

• LTB issues a tenant intends to raise at a rent arrears hearing

Read next: Collecting money from a former Ontario tenant

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

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This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.