Receiving notice of a Landlord and Tenant Board hearing can feel overwhelming. This guide explains what the process looks like, what to bring, and how to give yourself the best chance of a good outcome.
The key thing to know
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is an administrative tribunal in Ontario that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. It handles applications from both landlords and tenants across a wide range of issues, from eviction proceedings to maintenance complaints to rent disputes.
The LTB is separate from the court system. It operates under its own rules and procedures. Hearings can be conducted in person at an LTB location, by telephone, or by video conference depending on the matter.
Most LTB proceedings begin when one party files an application. Common application types include:
After an application is filed, the LTB sends notice to the other party and schedules a hearing date. The notice includes details about the application and what you need to do.
How well you prepare for your LTB hearing significantly affects your outcome. Here is what to focus on:
Bring everything relevant to your case. Depending on the type of matter, this might include:
Disorganized evidence is harder to present and harder for the Member to follow. Number your documents, create a brief list of what each one shows, and bring enough copies for yourself, the other party, and the Member, typically three sets.
Know the dates that matter in your case, the amounts involved, and the key facts you want to communicate. You will have limited time and you want to be clear and focused.
Arrive early. If the hearing is in person, check in with LTB staff when you arrive. If it is by telephone or video, make sure you have the right call-in details and a quiet place to join from.
The Member will introduce themselves and confirm who is present. They will explain how the hearing will proceed. Most LTB hearings follow a relatively straightforward sequence: the applicant presents their case first, followed by the respondent.
The applicant presents their evidence and may call witnesses. The respondent then has the opportunity to ask questions (cross-examine). Then the respondent presents their evidence, and the applicant can ask questions. After both sides have presented, there may be an opportunity for brief closing remarks.
Speak to the Member, not to the other party
At the end of the hearing, the Member may give an oral decision immediately, or they may reserve their decision and issue it in writing later. Oral decisions are common in straightforward cases. More complex matters often result in reserved decisions, which can take days or weeks to arrive.
You are not required to have legal representation at an LTB hearing. Many people represent themselves. But the hearing is a formal proceeding with rules of evidence and procedure, and the outcome has real consequences, where you live, whether you can recover arrears, or what happens to your tenancy.
A licensed paralegal experienced in LTB matters knows how to organize evidence, present arguments clearly, and cross-examine the other party effectively. This preparation and experience can make a meaningful difference in how your case is received.
A licensed paralegal can prepare your case and represent you at your hearing. Tell us what is happening.
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This guide is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Every situation is different, if you need guidance specific to your circumstances, please reach out directly.
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