Ontario’s rental landscape just got an update with Bill 60 – Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act, 2025 (now law as Statutes of Ontario 2025, c. 14), focusing on its amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). The bill has generated discussion from both tenant advocates and landlord groups. It aims to reduce delays at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) and improve process efficiency for everyone involved in rental disputes.

Important note: This is an informational summary only and not legal advice. Core tenant protections—including rent control (with existing exemptions) and security of tenure—remain in place. Tenants and landlords should consult official sources, the LTB website, or organizations like the Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) for guidance specific to their situation.

Background on the Changes 

Ontario’s rental market faces challenges like LTB backlogs, which can delay resolutions for both tenants and landlords. Bill 60 introduces procedural updates to address some of these issues, while maintaining many existing RTA rules. The changes have sparked debate, with some viewing them as steps toward faster outcomes and others expressing concerns about potential impacts on housing stability.

1/ Changes to Non-Payment of Rent Processes 

The notice period before a landlord can file an application with the LTB for non-payment of rent has been shortened from 14 days to 7 days.

What this means 

This allows non-payment matters to proceed more quickly if arrears are not resolved. Tenant advocates have raised concerns that the shorter timeline could limit time to address financial difficulties. Landlords may find it helps resolve prolonged issues faster. All parties are encouraged to communicate early and seek resolution before applications are filed.

2/ Own-Use Evictions (N12 Notices) 

For evictions where the landlord (or a family member) intends genuine personal use of the unit, an alternative option now exists: the landlord can provide at least 120 days’ notice without the previous requirement to pay one month’s rent compensation or offer an alternative unit.

What this means 

This provides landlords with more options in legitimate own-use cases. Bad-faith evictions (e.g., to evade rent control or re-rent at higher rates) remain prohibited, with significant penalties possible. Tenant groups have noted concerns about reduced relocation support in a tight market.

3/ LTB Efficiency and Review Timelines

 The time to request a review of an LTB order has been reduced from 30 days to 15 days (extensions possible in appropriate cases). The bill also enables future regulations to define “persistent late payment” for potential eviction grounds and includes other measures to reduce backlogs, such as standardized forms and improved access to decisions.

What this means 

Faster processing aims to benefit both tenants and landlords by shortening wait times for hearings and resolutions. Critics have pointed out that administrative improvements (like staffing) could further help address delays without changing timelines.

4/ Raising Maintenance or Repair Issues in Non-Payment Hearings 

In non-payment proceedings, tenants who wish to raise certain repair or maintenance claims (under Section 82) may now need to pay at least 50% of the alleged arrears before those issues can be considered.

What this means 

This change seeks to streamline arrears hearings. Landlords must still maintain properties to RTA standards and address valid concerns promptly. Tenants retain the ability to raise legitimate issues (including through separate applications if needed), but the threshold may affect how disputes are handled in combined hearings.

Overall Implications 

Bill 60 focuses on procedural streamlining to reduce LTB delays and improve predictability for rental disputes. While aimed at helping both tenants and landlords reach faster resolutions, the changes have prompted debate about their effects on housing security and access to justice.

Ontario remains a highly regulated rental market with strong protections in place. Successful outcomes for everyone depend on clear communication, compliance with the RTA, and responsible practices—such as timely rent payments, prompt maintenance, and good-faith dealings.

To learn more about how these changes might apply to your specific rental situation, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board, seek advice from tenant advocacy resources (e.g., ACTO), or consult a professional familiar with Ontario rental law.