Ontario limits how much landlords can increase rent each year. If your landlord raised your rent above the guideline without LTB approval, the increase may be illegal — and you can get your money back.
2026 Rent Increase Guideline: 2.1%
The Ontario rent increase guideline for 2026 is 2.1%. This means if you're paying $2,000/month, the maximum increase is $42/month (to $2,042).
Rules for Legal Rent Increases
For a rent increase to be legal, your landlord must:
- Give 90 days' written notice using the N1 form
- Not exceed the guideline (2.1% for 2026) unless they have LTB approval
- Wait at least 12 months since the last increase (or since the tenancy started)
When the Guideline Doesn't Apply
The guideline does not apply to:
- Units first occupied after November 15, 2018 (no cap)
- Vacant units (landlord can set any price for a new tenant)
- Community housing and non-profit housing
- Units with an approved Above Guideline Increase (AGI)
Not sure? Use our free Rent Increase Calculator to check if your increase is legal.
What to Do If Your Increase Is Illegal
- Don't refuse to pay rent entirely. Pay the legal amount (your current rent + guideline increase if applicable).
- Notify your landlord in writing that the increase exceeds the guideline and you'll be paying the legal amount.
- File a T1 Application with the LTB to recover the excess rent paid.
How Much Can You Recover?
The LTB can order your landlord to pay back:
- All excess rent paid above the legal amount
- Going back up to 1 year from the date you file the T1
- Plus a rent reduction going forward to the legal amount
Check Your Increase Now
Use our free Rent Increase Calculator to instantly check if your increase is legal. If it's not, generate your T1 application in minutes.