Ending your tenancy in Ontario: tenant notice, N9 form and early moves
A tenant with a monthly lease must give at least 60 days' written notice, with the end date on the last day of a rental period. This guide shows how to give notice properly, what to do with your deposit, and how to avoid disputes when you move out.
General information, not legal advice. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) are the authority. Check the current LTB forms before you use them.
Key points
- Monthly tenancy: at least 60 days' written notice, ending on the last day of a rental period.
- Fixed-term lease: the lease normally ends on its end date. Early moves depend on the lease and the law.
- Keep proof that you gave notice: a dated copy, and a way to show it was received.
- Give your forwarding address in writing so your deposit can be returned.
- Do a walk-through and take photos when you leave.
Step 1: Check your lease type
| Lease type | How it ends |
|---|---|
| Monthly (periodic), no end date | You give at least 60 days' notice, ending on the last day of a rental period. |
| Fixed term (for example one year) | The lease ends on its end date. If the lease allows it, you can give notice before the end. Otherwise, staying past the end date usually renews it as a monthly lease. |
| Early move from a fixed term | Not automatic. The landlord may try to re-rent the unit. You may owe rent until a new tenant starts, or until the lease ends, depending on the facts. |
Step 2: Write the notice
Your notice should include:
- Your name and the unit address
- The date you give the notice
- The date you will move out (the last day of a rental period, with at least 60 days' notice)
- Your signature
The N9 form is the tenant's notice form on the LTB website. You do not have to use it, but it sets out the information clearly. Keep a copy.
Step 3: Deliver it properly
- Hand it to the landlord and get a signed copy back, or
- Email or text it, and keep the sent message, or
- Mail it. Add 5 days to the 60-day count. Keep the receipt.
Count the 60 days from the day after you deliver the notice. Choose a move-out date that is safely past the 60 days, so a short mistake does not cause a dispute.
Step 4: Before you move out
- Clean the unit and return all keys, fobs and remotes.
- Take dated photos or video of every room, including the meters.
- Ask for a joint move-out inspection. The landlord and tenant can both sign the checklist.
- Pay rent up to the move-out date, and keep receipts.
- Give your forwarding address in writing.
Your deposit
A landlord must return the rent deposit, with interest, within 7 days after the tenancy ends and after receiving your forwarding address, unless the landlord has a reasonable claim for damage. If you disagree with a deduction, ask in writing for the receipts. If the deposit is still not returned, you can apply to the LTB. See our last month's rent and deposit guide for more detail.
What a landlord cannot do
- Change the locks or remove your belongings to force you out. This is an offence.
- Keep the deposit for normal wear and tear.
- Charge a "cleaning fee" that the lease does not allow.
- Refuse to accept your written notice that meets the law.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice does a tenant need in Ontario?
For a monthly tenancy, at least 60 days' written notice, ending on the last day of a rental period.
Do I have to use the N9 form?
No. A signed written notice with your move-out date is valid. The N9 is a clear option.
Can I leave a fixed-term lease early?
It depends on the lease and the facts. Read the lease, and speak to a paralegal or lawyer before you leave if the amount is large.
My landlord won't return my deposit. What now?
Send a written request with your forwarding address. If it is still not returned, you can file a T1 application with the LTB.
Related guides
Sources
Last checked: 2026-11-02. Check the current N9 form and deposit timing on the LTB site before you act.