New Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

On January 1, 2007, the new Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 came into force.  This new Act replaced the former Tenant Protection Act  and was designed to reflect the provincial government’s commitment to restore fairness and balance to the rental housing system.

Features of the new legislation are:

1.  Better Protection for Tenants

• Better Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal Processes

• Protection from excessive above guideline increases

• Utilities – Fair treatment for tenants

• Smart Meters – Conserving energy and protecting tenants

• Protection from rent increases when there are outstanding maintenance issues

• Protection for mobile home tenants

• Protection for care home residents

2.  Better Protection for Landlords

• Protection from tenants who cause wilful and excessive damage

• Lower fees

• Fair interest rates on rent deposits

3.  Healthy Investment Climate

• Exemptions from proposed legislation

• Market rent for vacant units

• Transparent calculation for annual rent increase guideline

• More flexibility to discount rents

Visit the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website for more information.