Your Landlord Says No Pets? Here’s What the Law Actually Says in Ontario
Section 14 of the Residential Tenancies Act makes every no-pet clause in an Ontario lease void. But a landlord can still act on specific grounds. A plain-Eng...
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord evict me for having a pet in Ontario?
Not for simply having a pet. Section 14 of the RTA makes no-pet clauses void. A landlord can only seek eviction through the LTB if the pet causes substantial interference with others, causes a serious allergic reaction, or is inherently dangerous (s. 76). The landlord must serve an N5 notice first.
Is a no-pet clause in my Ontario lease enforceable?
No. Section 14 of the RTA states that any provision in a tenancy agreement prohibiting animals is void. Even if you signed a lease with a no-pet clause, the clause is legally unenforceable.
Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I have a pet?
Yes, during the application process. Section 14 only voids no-pet clauses in signed tenancy agreements. Before a tenancy is formed, a landlord can choose not to rent to a pet owner. The protection applies after the lease is signed.
What about pets in Ontario condos?
Condo corporations can restrict pets through their declaration, bylaws, or rules under the Condominium Act, 1998. These restrictions apply to tenants even though a no-pet clause in the lease itself would be void under the RTA. Service animals required for a disability are an exception — they are protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code regardless of condo rules.
Can I get a pet after moving into a no-pets building?
Yes. Section 14 does not distinguish between pets you had at move-in and pets acquired later. The no-pet clause is void regardless. Your landlord can only act if the pet causes specific problems under s. 76 (interference, allergies, or danger).
What is an N5 notice for a pet?
An N5 is the notice a landlord must serve before applying to the LTB for eviction based on a pet causing interference, damage, or danger. On a first N5, the tenant has 7 days to fix the problem. If the problem is corrected within 7 days, the N5 is void.
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