Changes Coming to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

What you need to know!

Written By:  Daniela Romeo

Posted: June 23, 2026   3 minute read

New changes to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) will affect how landlords and tenants handle matters ranging from air-conditioning requests to unpaid rent, including changes to Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) processes. These changes stem from Bill 97 and Bill 60, with some taking effect on July 1st, 2026, and September 21, 2026. Here is a brief overview of the upcoming changes. For more information about your specific matter, contact us today!

Starting July 1st, 2026

New Tenant Rights for Air Conditioning

Beginning July 1, 2026, tenants will have the right to install a window or portable air conditioning unit if the landlord does not provide one (with some exceptions). The installation must be safe and secure and must not damage the property. For landlords who pay for electricity, there is an option to recover reasonable electricity costs through a seasonal rent increase, subject to conditions. The utility increase must reflect the actual or reasonably estimated cost and must end when the air conditioner is no longer in use.

LTB Decision Review Deadlines Are Getting Shorter

The timeline for requesting a review of an LTB decision is currently 30 days. Starting July 1, 2026, it will be 15 days. While extensions may still be available in certain situations, landlords will need to respond more quickly to LTB decisions.

Rent Repayment Agreements Need the Right Paperwork

Starting July 1, 2026, all LTB rent arrears agreements must be completed using an approved LTB form (available on the LTB website) to be enforceable without a hearing. The LTB will no longer accept a written agreement.

RTA Penalties Are Increasing

The consequences for RTA offences are becoming more severe. Maximum penalties will increase to $100,000.00 for Individuals and $500,000.00 for Corporations. In addition, compliance, documentation, and adherence to proper procedures will become even more important.

What should I consider?

Landlords and Tenants should ensure they understand the new laws and processes. This means reviewing your forms and keeping detailed records. Landlords should prepare for AC requests, and tenants should confirm their eligibility to make those requests and understand what the written requests entail. Finally, staying up to date with LTB requirements is always important! It is also important to understand that while some laws are changing, others may not have changed yet, so you could run into legal problems. Below are some upcoming changes we know will take effect in September. 

Starting September 21st, 2026

Faster Action for Unpaid Rent

The timeline after serving an N4 notice will change. Currently, tenants have 14 days to pay rent owing before a landlord can apply to the LTB. Starting in September, this period will be reduced to seven (7) days.

Changes to Own-Use Evictions (N12)

Changes are also coming to landlord own-use applications. Where the termination date is at least 120 days after the notice is given, compensation will no longer be required. All notices must still follow proper procedure and be issued in good faith.

The rules are changing — but being prepared puts you in the best position. Stay tuned for more changes to the RTA! 

📞For more information about the Landlord Tenant Board and to learn how our team can help you move forward - with clarity, confidence and FullForce - Reach out to us today!

Disclaimer: The content of this article/blog is provided as a general introduction and overview of a legal topic only. This article/blog does not provide legal or other professional advice, nor does it express any opinion. It is recommended to consult a legal professional before making decisions based on your specific circumstances. Additionally, this does not establish a paralegal-client relationship, only upon contacting us and signing a Retainer Agreement with FullForce Legal Services LLP.

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