The N4 Notice Is Changing in Ontario: What Landlords Need to Know
As of September 21, 2026, the N4 works differently. The notice period is shorter, there is a new form, and tenants who want to raise other issues at a rent hearing now have to pay part of the arrears first. Here is what changed and what to do.
Key points
- For N4s served on or after September 21, 2026, the notice period is 7 days, down from 14.
- Use the updated N4. Older versions won’t be accepted after November 30, 2026.
- To raise other issues at the hearing, the tenant must pay you half the arrears claimed at least 7 days before.
- The N4 is still for rent only. Fees and utilities don’t belong on it.
The Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act (Bill 60) changed several rules for rent cases at the Landlord and Tenant Board. Most took effect on September 21, 2026. If you serve N4s, these changes affect you directly.
The 7-day notice period
For N4s served on or after September 21, 2026, the termination date must be at least 7 days after the notice is served. Before that date, a monthly tenancy needed 14 days. The tenant can still void the notice by paying everything owing before the termination date. Add extra days if you serve by mail.
The new form
The LTB released an updated N4 on September 21, 2026. Previous versions won’t be accepted as of November 30, 2026. Download the form fresh from the LTB website each time instead of using a saved copy.
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Book a free 20-minute call →Tenant issues at the hearing
For rent applications filed on or after September 21, 2026, a tenant who wants to raise other issues at the hearing, such as maintenance, must pay the landlord half of the arrears claimed at least 7 days before the hearing. The payment goes directly to the landlord, not to the LTB. The tenant must also still give the landlord and the Board a description of those issues at least 7 days before the hearing. Keep a record of any payment you receive.
Rent only
The N4 is for unpaid rent. NSF charges, late fees, utilities and damages are not rent and shouldn’t be on the form. Adding them is one of the most common reasons an application fails.
Shorter review deadline
Since July 1, 2026, a party has 15 days, down from 30, to request a review of an LTB order. If you disagree with a decision, act quickly. For the full list of changes, see our Bill 60 update.
Frequently asked questions
What is the N4 notice period now?
For N4s served on or after September 21, 2026, the termination date must be at least 7 days after service.
Can I use an old N4 I saved?
Older versions won’t be accepted after November 30, 2026. Download the current form from the LTB website.
Can a tenant still raise maintenance issues at a rent hearing?
Yes, but for applications filed on or after September 21, 2026, they must first pay the landlord half the arrears claimed at least 7 days before the hearing.
Can I put utilities on the N4?
No. The N4 is for rent only.
How long do I have to request a review of an LTB order?
15 days, since July 1, 2026.
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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