Residential Tenancies Act

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) was proclaimed and came into effect on January 31, 2007, replacing the Tenant Protection Act, 1997 (TPA). The new legislation gives tenants more protection while keeping Ontario’s rental housing market strong.

Our aim is to create a rental housing system that protects tenants, helps landlords and promotes investment in Ontario’s rental housing market.

This legislation affects approximately 1.31 million renter households in Ontario, representing 29 per cent of Ontario’s population. The Ontario government listened to this group, along with landlords and housing experts, to develop legislation that is fair and balanced.

This webpage provides access to information about the legislation and its benefits:

If you have a concern with your tenant/landlord or you would like information about residential landlord and tenant issues please contact the Landlord and Tenant Board at (416) 645-8080 (from within the Toronto calling area), or 1-888-332-3234 from outside Toronto or visit their website.

As an alternative, if you believe that your landlord or tenant has committed an offence under the RTA, please contact this ministry’s Investigation and Enforcement Unit (IEU). The IEU can be reached by telephone at 416-585-7214 (from within the Toronto calling area), or toll-free at 1-888-772-9277 or visit their website.