Who can enforce an Ontario residential eviction

For a tenancy covered by Ontario's residential tenancy legislation, obtaining an eviction order does not authorize a landlord to carry out the eviction personally. Enforcement is generally carried out through the Court Enforcement Office by the sheriff, subject to the order and any stay.

Confirm the enforceable date and check for later orders before arranging the next step. Tenants should also obtain advice promptly about any available motion, review, appeal, or stay. The procedure depends on the order and stage reached. Changing locks, removing belongings, or cutting services outside the lawful process can create separate legal exposure. Preserve all notices and communications so the actual enforcement position can be assessed. Do not rely on a verbal description of an order.

Read the order as a whole, including conditions, payment provisions, and the earliest enforcement date. A later payment, stay, review order, or other development may affect the position and requires assessment. Keep communications with the enforcement office factual and provide complete documents when requested. A landlord should not rely on a contractor, superintendent, or security service to carry out an eviction that requires the sheriff. The lawful process matters even where substantial arrears or serious disagreements remain unresolved.

For a tenant, act immediately when enforcement appears imminent. Gather the order, hearing notices, payment proof, and any document supporting the relief you want to request. Explain the stage reached accurately, because options may change after enforcement occurs. Practical arrangements for belongings and essential items should be addressed through lawful channels. Neither party should treat a general online explanation as a substitute for reading the actual order. A prompt file review can identify what is enforceable, what further request may be available, and which professional is authorized to handle the next step.

Sources

• LTB illegal lockouts and lawful eviction enforcement
• LTB application and hearing process

Read next: Choosing the correct Ontario landlord application

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.