Filing an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is often seen as the hardest part of the process. In reality, it is only the beginning.
Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, understanding what happens after you file can help reduce stress, avoid mistakes, and ensure you are properly prepared.
Step 1: The LTB Reviews and Issues the Application
Once your application is submitted and the filing fee is paid, the LTB will review it for completeness. If accepted, the Board will:
- Issue the application
- Assign a file number
- Schedule a hearing (in most cases)
You will receive a Notice of Hearing that includes:
- The hearing date and time
- Whether the hearing will be virtual, by phone, or in person
- Instructions on how to participate
This notice should be reviewed careful
Step 2: Service by the Landlord and Tenant Board
Once the application is issued, the LTB serves the application and the Notice of Hearing on the parties using the contact information provided.
Because service is handled by the Board:
- Parties must ensure their email and mailing address are accurate
- Failure to update contact information can result in missed notices
- Service by the LTB is considered valid under the Board’s rules
Parties remain responsible for checking their mail and email regularly.
Step 3: Preparing for the Hearing and Exchanging Evidence
After receiving the Notice of Hearing, both parties must begin preparing their case and their evidence.
Before the hearing, each party is required to serve the other party with all evidence they intend to rely on at the hearing. This includes documents, photographs, videos, audio recordings, screenshots, receipts, and written statements.
Evidence must be served at least 7 days before the hearing, unless the Notice of Hearing or LTB rules state otherwise.
Strict compliance withthis rule is required.
Failure to serve evidence at least 7 days in advance may result in the evidence not being accepted by the Board, even if it is relevant or important.
This requirement applies equally to landlords and tenants and is intended to ensure fairness by allowing both parties adequate time to review and respond.
Parties should:
- Organize evidence clearly and label it properly
- Serve evidence using an approved method
- Keep proof of service
- Review the other party’s evidence before the hearing
Failure to follow evidence disclosure rules is one of the most common reasons otherwise strong cases are unsuccessful at the LTB.
Step 4: Mediation (Where Available)
In some cases, the LTB may offer mediation before the hearing.
Mediation is:
- Voluntary
- Confidential
- Conducted by an LTB mediator
If an agreement is reached, it may be put into writing and can become a binding order of the Board.
If mediation is unsuccessful, the matter proceeds to a hearing.
Step 5: The Hearing
At the hearing, an LTB Member will:
- Hear evidence from both parties
- Ask questions
- Review documents and testimony
While LTB hearings are less formal than court, they are still legal proceedings with serious consequences. Each party has the opportunity to present their case and respond to the other party’s evidence.
Step 6: The LTB Decision and Order
The Board may:
- Give an oral decision at the hearing, or
- Issue a written decision after the hearing
The written order will set out:
- The Board’s findings
- The outcome of the application
- Any timelines or conditions for compliance
LTB orders are legally binding.
Step 7: Enforcement of the Order
The LTB does not enforce its own orders.
For example:
- Evictions are enforced through the Sheriff, not the landlord
- Monetary orders may need to be enforced through Small Claims Court
Additional steps are required if a party does not comply with an order.
Common Misunderstandings
- Filing an application does not guarantee success
- Filing does not suspend rent or other obligations
- Filing does not result in immediate eviction or payment
Outcomes depend on evidence, credibility, and compliance with LTB rules.
Final Thoughts
Filing with the Landlord and Tenant Board starts a structured legal process with strict procedural requirements. What happens after filing — particularly evidence disclosure deadlines — can be just as important as the application itself.
Understanding the process and preparing properly can prevent delays, dismissed evidence, and unfavorable