The eviction process in Ontario is not instant. Even when a landlord follows every step correctly, delays at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) can slow things down. The eviction timeline Ontario often ranges from a few weeks to several months.
Understanding each stage of the tenant eviction process helps landlords avoid mistakes and move forward confidently. Many landlords rely on paralegal assistance with evictions to prevent delays and manage paperwork.
Knowing the most frequent small claims errors Ontario renters, landlords, and business owners commit will save you considerable time and money. Even better, hiring a licensed paralegal gives you the advice to steer clear of these mistakes entirely.
Eviction Timeline Overview
The average eviction timeline Ontario is between 2 and 4 months. The exact duration depends on the reason for eviction, the type of notice served, and how quickly the LTB schedules a hearing.
Here’s the general path most cases follow:
- Serving the correct eviction notice
- Waiting for the notice period to end
- Filing the application
- Attending the LTB hearing
- Receiving the order
- Enforcement by the Sheriff
Each step can extend the total timeline. Errors in notices or forms can reset the tenant eviction process, which is why many landlords seek paralegal eviction assistance before filing any documents.
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) controls all eviction matters. Only the LTB can issue an eviction order, and only the Sheriff can enforce it.
Serving Notice to Evict
Eviction always begins with a written notice. Different forms have different timelines:
- N4 (Non-Payment of Rent): 14 days
- N8 (Persistent Late Payment): 60 days
- N5 (Damage, Disturbances, Interference): 7 or 20 days
- N12 (Landlord’s Own Use): 60 days
- N13 (Renovations/Demolition): 120 days
A mistake on this first step adds weeks to the eviction timeline Ontario. For example, using the incorrect date or an incorrect form can render the notice void. Cases like TEL-15232-11 (LTB) demonstrate that invalid notices can cause complete system restarts.
Correct notice is the foundation of the eviction process for tenants.
Many landlords use paralegal eviction help here to ensure the notice is properly drafted and served.
LTB Hearing Scheduling
After the notice period ends, the landlord applies to the LTB.
This stage often brings the most significant delays. Hearing wait times vary by region but commonly range from 6 to 12 weeks, sometimes longer due to backlog.
During this time:
- The tenant remains in the unit
- Rent arrears may grow
- Evidence must be gathered
- The landlord prepares for the hearing
If the tenant files motions or requests adjournments, the delay can increase. The eviction timeline Ontario is heavily influenced by LTB availability.
A landlord who doesn’t prepare evidence properly risks losing the hearing. That’s another reason many owners rely on paralegal eviction help to organize documents, formulate arguments, and avoid procedural errors.
Enforcement by the Sheriff
Even when the LTB issues an eviction order, the landlord still cannot remove the tenant themselves. Only the Sheriff has legal authority.
Once the order is filed with the Sheriff’s Office:
- A date is set for enforcement
- The tenant receives notice
- The Sheriff attends the property
- Locks can be changed after removal
Sheriff wait times range from 1 to 6 weeks, depending on workload and location. This stage is part of the tenant eviction process that many landlords don’t expect to take so long.
If the tenant refuses to leave voluntarily, enforcement becomes mandatory. Proper documentation is essential, or the Sheriff will not act. Paralegal eviction assistance ensures that all documents and orders are submitted correctly.
Role of a Paralegal in Fast-Tracking Cases
Eviction delays often occur due to avoidable mistakes. A landlord tenant paralegal reduces these risks by managing every step of the tenant eviction process.
A professional paralegal can:
- Prepare and review eviction notices
- File LTB applications correctly
- Organize evidence such as payment records or complaints
- Represent the landlord at the hearing
- Communicate with the LTB for updates
- Assist with Sheriff enforcement paperwork
Most landlords prefer paralegal eviction help because it saves time and avoids errors that stretch the eviction timeline. LTB Paralegals Toronto know procedures, common objections tenants raise, and how to respond effectively.
This professional support provides a smoother and faster eviction experience, especially for landlords who want a lawful and efficient outcome.
Conclusion
Evicting a tenant in Ontario takes time and must follow strict legal steps. The eviction timeline Ontario varies based on notices, LTB scheduling, evidence, and Sheriff enforcement. When mistakes happen, the entire tenant eviction process can restart.
Working with a paralegal eviction help is the best way to avoid delays, prepare solid evidence, and protect your rights as a landlord.
Want a faster eviction process? Our paralegals can help today.
FAQs
1. How long does an eviction usually take in Ontario?
Most evictions take 2–4 months, depending on notice type and LTB delays.
2. Can I remove a tenant without an LTB order?
No. Only the LTB can issue the eviction order.
3. Who enforces an eviction?
Only the Sheriff can legally remove a tenant after an order has been issued.
4. What causes eviction delays?
Backlogs, incorrect forms, tenant disputes, and hearing adjournments.
5. Can a paralegal speed up the eviction?
Yes. A paralegal helps prevent mistakes, handles filings, and prepares evidence efficiently.
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