Navigating tenant relationships can be complex, especially when unwanted guests enter the picture. If you’re a landlord in London, Ontario, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential to maintaining a harmonious living environment. But what happens when a tenant’s guest overstays their welcome? Can you evict a tenant due to unwanted guests?
According to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) in Ontario, tenants have the right to have guests stay in their unit without interference from the landlord. However, when a guest’s stay becomes prolonged and problematic, it can complicate matters. A guest turning into an unauthorized occupant can be a breach of the lease agreement, depending on the terms you’ve set forth. For example, if the lease specifies a maximum duration for guest stays and this limit is exceeded, it may be considered a violation.
Before considering eviction, it’s crucial to communicate with your tenant. Address the issue politely and professionally, and try to understand the circumstances. In some cases, the tenant might not be aware of the discomfort or disruption caused by their guest. A written notice detailing the violation and a reasonable timeframe to resolve the issue can often rectify the situation without escalating it to eviction.
If the tenant fails to comply, you may proceed with a notice of termination. In Ontario, this generally involves serving a Form N5 for “Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage or Overcrowding”. This form allows the tenant seven days to correct the issue. If the problem persists beyond this period, landlords can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for a hearing.
For more information on handling tenant issues, visit LSK Property Management’s homepage.