Ontario tightens rent-payment deadlines and eviction rules under new tenancy reforms

On September 21, Ontario implemented several updates to its Residential Tenancies Act, originally part of Bill 60 and Bill 97, aimed at accelerating rent-payment enforcement and clarifying eviction procedures. Tenants now have only seven days, instead of fourteen, to pay overdue rent after receiving an N4 notice before a landlord can seek eviction. The legislation defines “persistent late payment” as rent paid more than seven days late on at least three occasions within six months.

Landlords evicting for personal or family use must give at least 120 days’ notice but are no longer required to provide compensation or an alternative unit, and the new occupant must take possession within 60 days or the eviction is presumed to be in bad faith. Critics argue the tighter deadlines may generate more hearings and strain the Landlord and Tenant Board, while landlord groups welcome the clearer definition of chronic non-payment. Tenant advocates fear the reforms could erode protections and increase eviction pressure.