How to Prepare for an LTB Hearing: A Step-by-Step Landlord Checklist
Landlords who arrive unprepared are at a real disadvantage, especially when the tenant has a representative. Here is a practical checklist of what to have ready, the deadlines that matter and what to expect at a virtual LTB hearing.
Key points
- Most LTB hearings are held by video on Zoom. Join 30 minutes early and plan for the whole day.
- Give the tenant and the Board all your evidence at least 7 days before the hearing.
- To reschedule with everyone’s consent, file the request at least 5 business days before.
- Since September 21, 2026, a tenant raising other issues at a rent hearing must first pay you half the arrears claimed.
The adjudicator can’t help you present your case. It is up to you to prove it with organized evidence and clear testimony.
Know your application
Know exactly what you are asking for: the order, the amounts and the dates. If the arrears have changed since you filed, bring an updated ledger and be ready to explain every payment.
Organize and share your evidence
Give the other party and the LTB a copy of every document, photo and other evidence you plan to rely on at least 7 days before the hearing, following the instructions in your Notice of Hearing. Evidence that wasn’t shared on time may not be allowed.
- The lease and any rent increase notices.
- The notice of termination and the Certificate of Service.
- A rent ledger with due dates and payment dates.
- Photos, repair invoices and relevant messages.
- For an N12: the affidavit or declaration and, for a buyer’s use, the agreement of purchase and sale.
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If the tenant says they never got the notice, your Certificate of Service and your testimony are the evidence. Know which method you used and when the notice was considered received. See Certificate of Service.
Anticipate the tenant’s case
Tenants often raise maintenance problems, harassment claims or disputed payments. In rent cases, they must give you and the Board a written description of those issues at least 7 days before the hearing. For applications filed on or after September 21, 2026, they must also pay you at least half the arrears claimed at least 7 days before. Bring your repair records and be ready to respond.
Hearing day
- Join 30 minutes early. Several hearings are booked for the same time, so plan to be available all day.
- Test your camera, sound and screen sharing beforehand.
- Have your witnesses ready, or request a summons in advance if they may not attend.
- Present your case, answer questions, and question the tenant.
- Expect the decision in writing, often after the hearing.
If you can’t attend and everyone agrees to a new date, file a request to reschedule at least 5 business days before. Otherwise, you or your representative must attend and ask for an adjournment.
Frequently asked questions
When do I have to share my evidence?
At least 7 days before the hearing, with the other party and the LTB.
Are LTB hearings in person?
Most are held by video on Zoom. The LTB decides the format.
Can I reschedule my hearing?
If all parties agree, file a request at least 5 business days before. The LTB can still refuse.
What if I’m late?
The hearing may go ahead without you. Join 30 minutes early.
Can a tenant raise repair issues at my rent hearing?
Yes, with 7 days’ written notice. For applications filed on or after September 21, 2026, they must also pay you half the arrears claimed first.
About Bita Di Lisi
Bita is the lead paralegal at Stonegate Legal Services and is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. She represents Ontario landlords at the Landlord and Tenant Board and teaches landlords and investors about notices, LTB timelines and the mistakes that cost months.
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