Calling All Landlords! Rent Increase Guidline Set Annually By The Government

The 2009 rent increase guideline is 1.8 per cent. That's the maximum percentage by which a landlord can raise the rent for residential tenants without getting approval from the Landlord and Tenant Board. The Ontario government sets the increase guideline annually based on the changes in the Ontario Consumer Price Index for all goods and services. Last year's guideline was 1.4 per cent. If at least 12 months have passed since the tenant first moved in or since the last rent increase, a landlord can raise the rent by as much as 1.8 per cent. However, the tenant must be given proper written notice of the rental increase at least 90 days before it takes effect.

Landlords can apply to the board for a larger increase if they can prove that their costs for municipal taxes and utilities have increased by more than the rent guideline plus 50 per cent (i.e. 2.7 per cent for 2009). They can also apply for larger increases to help cover costs related to security services and capital expenses.

If you are a landlord or tenant who needs more information, call (416) 645-8080 or visit http://www.ltb. gov.on.ca.