Plain-language answer
For most rent-controlled units in Ontario, a landlord generally cannot raise the rent by more than the annual guideline set by the province — unless the Landlord and Tenant Board approves an above-guideline increase (often called an AGI) after a formal application, typically for things like certain major capital work or unusual cost increases.
Two important caveats. First, not every unit is covered by the guideline: under current rules, some units — including many first occupied for residential use after November 15, 2018 — are generally not subject to the guideline limit, though other rules (like notice requirements and the 12-month spacing between increases) still generally apply. Second, guideline rules are exactly the kind of detail a legal professional or official source should confirm for your specific unit.
Regardless of the amount, a rent increase generally requires proper written notice — usually at least 90 days on the correct form — and generally cannot take effect within 12 months of the last increase or the start of the tenancy.
Why it matters
An increase that does not follow the rules may not be lawful, and tenants sometimes pay increases they did not have to. Checking before you pay protects you.
AGI applications are formal processes where tenants have participation rights. Tenants who ignore the paperwork can lose the chance to respond.
Facts that affect the answer
Based on the information available, these are the kinds of facts that commonly change how a situation like this is assessed:
- Whether your unit is covered by the rent increase guideline — first occupancy date can matter under current rules.
- Whether the increase is at or below the guideline for the year it takes effect.
- Whether proper written notice was given on the right form, at least 90 days in advance.
- Whether 12 months have passed since the last increase or the start of your tenancy.
- Whether the landlord has applied to the LTB for an above-guideline increase, and whether any order exists.
Evidence to preserve
Preserve these now, in their original form
- The rent increase notice itself, including the form used and the date you received it.
- Your lease and records showing your current rent and when it last changed.
- Any LTB documents about an above-guideline application.
- Messages with the landlord about the increase.
- Records of what you actually paid before and after the proposed effective date.
Common mistakes
- Paying an increase automatically without checking the guideline, the notice period, and the form.
- Assuming every unit is rent-controlled — coverage depends on the unit, and the exceptions are significant.
- Ignoring AGI paperwork from the LTB instead of participating in the process.
- Agreeing verbally to an increase without understanding what is being agreed to.
- Waiting a long time to question an increase — timing can affect your options, so get advice early.
Possible official process
The Government of Ontario publishes the rent increase guideline each year. Comparing your notice to the guideline and the notice rules is the usual first check — RTO Pro's Rent Increase Checker can help you organize this.
Above-guideline increases generally require a landlord application to the LTB, where tenants can respond and a hearing may be held before any order is made.
If you believe an increase was improper, a community legal clinic can advise on the options, which may include an application to the LTB depending on the circumstances and timing.
Professional review recommended
Tools that help with this
Jurisdiction: Ontario · Last reviewed 2026-07-15 · currently under review. Rules, forms, and deadlines can change — always confirm against the official sources above.
This is legal information, not legal advice. RTO Pro is not a law firm. Deadlines and exceptions may apply to your situation — a qualified legal professional should confirm anything important before you rely on it.