Landlord raised rent mid-lease
During a fixed-term lease, rent is usually locked until the term ends. Guideline increases apply mainly to month-to-month tenancies with proper 90-day notice.
Information only — not legal advice. Ontario tenant law has exceptions. For your specific situation, contact WUSA Student Legal Protection or a licensed paralegal.
Your rights (general)
- •For a fixed-term lease, the rent amount is generally set for the whole term — a mid-term increase may not be valid.
- •After the fixed term, if you stay on month-to-month, increases must follow Ontario's rent increase guideline (check the current year's percentage on ontario.ca).
- •Landlords must use the proper N1 notice form and give at least 90 days' notice before a guideline increase takes effect.
- •Increases above the guideline require LTB approval — landlords cannot simply charge more because they asked.
What to do next
- 1Check your lease: is it fixed-term? What rent amount is written?
- 2Reply in writing that you do not agree to an increase during the fixed term (if applicable).
- 3If you are month-to-month, verify whether an N1 was served correctly and whether the amount is within the guideline.
- 4Contact WUSA Student Legal Protection before agreeing to pay a higher amount or if you receive an N1 you do not understand.
Official forms & resources
- N1 — Notice of Rent Increase →Landlord and Tenant Board
- Ontario rent increase guideline →Government of Ontario
Need personal advice?
WUSA Student Legal Protection offers free legal advice for UW students on housing disputes. WLUSU members can contact WLUSU Legal Care.
Keep records from day one: documents to keep checklist