What Landlords Need to Know About Bad Tenants in Ontario
Being a landlord in Ontario can be a rewarding investment — but not when a bad tenant turns your property into a financial nightmare. Whether it’s non-payment, property destruction, or a tenant who simply refuses to leave, the consequences can be devastating. Ontario’s landlord and tenant laws often leave property owners with little power, long wait times, and high financial losses.
If you’re a landlord experiencing any of these issues, you’re not alone. Here’s a true story from a local landlord who went through a multi-year ordeal that cost over $65,000 — and why every Ontario landlord needs to pay attention.
📺 Watch the Video: One Landlord’s $65,000 Tenant Nightmare
A Real Ontario Landlord’s Experience With a Bad Tenant
Four years ago, a landlord rented out a property in Brantford, Ontario, to what seemed like the perfect tenant. The documents checked out, the rent was paid on time, and the tenant was even proactive in requesting to do landscaping on the property — at their own expense. Everything seemed fine… until two years ago.
Suddenly, the rent stopped coming in. The tenant cut off all communication and ignored every attempt to make contact. After six months, a wellness check was conducted by police out of concern for the tenant’s safety. She was fine — just unwilling to pay.
Ontario Landlord Rights Are Limited
The landlord had already begun filing paperwork with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), but the process was agonizingly slow. Ontario’s system heavily favours tenant protections, and even in cases of non-payment, landlords must wait months — sometimes over a year — to even receive an eviction order.
In this story, the landlord waited 12 months just to get an eviction hearing. After winning the eviction, the tenant was still legally allowed another 2–3 months to leave the unit. All the while, no rent was paid.
The Final Blow: Property Damage and Massive Costs
When the landlord finally regained access to the unit, the damage was overwhelming:
- Walls were ripped out
- Carpets and flooring were destroyed
- Bathroom fixtures and door frames were ruined
The estimated cost of repair? Over $35,000 — just to restore the property to livable condition.
Combine that with 14 months of unpaid rent totaling $28,000, and the landlord was out over $63,000 — not including carrying costs like mortgage payments, property tax, and insurance.
Ontario’s Landlord-Tenant Laws Are Failing Owners
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case. Many landlords across Ontario are facing similar issues due to:
- LTB case backlogs and delays
- Laws that make evictions time-consuming and expensive
- Restrictions that prevent landlords from moving into their own properties
- A lack of enforcement for damage recovery or rent collection
Some landlords are even forced to live in their cars with their families because tenants refuse to leave after closing dates.
Can You Do Anything as a Landlord in Ontario?
Here’s what Ontario landlords should know if you’re dealing with a bad tenant:
- Document Everything
Keep detailed records of payments, communication attempts, and damage. - File With the LTB Immediately
Don’t delay — the process takes time, so the sooner you start, the better. - Use a Licensed Paralegal
An experienced paralegal can help you file forms correctly and represent you at hearings. - Be Wary of “Professional Tenants”
Some tenants know how to exploit the system. Run thorough background checks and verify references. - Consider Rent Guarantee Insurance
This can protect your income in case of non-payment. - Stay Updated on Ontario Rental Laws
Legislation changes often — make sure you’re informed of your rights.
A Warning to Future Landlords
If you’re thinking of becoming a landlord in Ontario, be cautious. High home prices and low legal protections make it an uphill battle for owners. While there are still many good tenants, a single bad tenant can ruin your financial situation for years.
Before buying a rental property in Ontario, consider the risks and prepare yourself for the worst-case scenario. It’s not always passive income — sometimes it’s a full-time legal battle.
Final Thoughts
This true story should be a wake-up call for current and future landlords in Ontario. From rent arrears to severe property damage and delays with the Landlord and Tenant Board, the system is not set up to protect owners.
If you’re currently dealing with a difficult tenant situation, consider consulting a licensed paralegal in Ontario. They can help guide you through the legal process and assist with the proper steps for eviction or legal action.
Need Help With a Bad Tenant in Ontario?
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