Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Ottawa

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Nelligan Law

Nelligan Law

Ottawa, Canada

Founded in 1963
200 people in their team
A cornerstone of Ottawa’s legal communityFounded by John P. Nelligan and Denis Power, Nelligan Law first began as as Nelligan Power.In 1963, Denis...
French
English
Delaney's Law Firm

Delaney's Law Firm

Ottawa, Canada

Founded in 2006
50 people in their team
I founded Delaney’s Law Firm after my first year of practice in 2006. 15 years later the firm has built a solid reputation in Ottawa for legal...
French
English

About Landlord & Tenant Law in Ottawa, Canada:

The Landlord and Tenant Board is the governing body for laws related to rental agreements in Ontario. Both landlords and tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act that sets the rules for rent increases, eviction procedures, and many other aspects concerning the rental agreement.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer can be helpful in several situations. For tenants, legal assistance may be needed during eviction processes, rent increase disputes, maintenance and repairs discrepancies, or even invasion of privacy cases. Landlords, on the other hand, may need a lawyer to handle non-payment of rent, property damages caused by the tenant, or other possible disputes that can arise in relation to the lease agreement.

Local Laws Overview:

In Ottawa, the Residential Tenancies Act governs the relationship between landlords and tenants. Key implications include the prohibition of rent hikes beyond prescribed annual percentages, and a stipulation for notice periods for eviction, which depends on the cause. Privacy rights are protected with law specifying when and under what conditions a landlord may enter a rented property.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can a landlord raise the rent anytime they want?

No, a landlord has to respect the terms of the lease and can only increase rent after a full year of tenancy, and even then, they have to provide a 90-day written notice.

2. What can I do if my landlord refuses to repair important utilities?

Tenants can apply to the Landlord & Tenant Board to either force the landlord to conduct the repairs or to reduce their rent. Speaking to a lawyer could be beneficial in this process.

3. Can a landlord evict me without a reason?

No. In Ottawa, a landlord must provide a valid reason for eviction such as a lease agreement violation or needed repairs that can't be done with a tenant occupying the property.

4. How much notice does a landlord have to give before eviction?

This depends on the reason for eviction. If it's for unpaid rent, the landlord must give at least 14 days' notice.

5. Can a landlord enter my apartment without notice?

Not without a valid reason. In general, a landlord must provide 24 hours' notice in writing stating the reason and the exact time of visit.

Additional Resources:

The Landlord & Tenant Board and the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing provide many resources related to landlord and tenant law in Ottawa. The City of Ottawa website also includes useful information regarding tenant rights and responsibilities. Other organizations, such as the Federation of Metro Tenants' Associations and the Community Legal Services of Ottawa, can provide legal advice and assistance.

Next Steps:

If you need legal assistance in landlord & tenant issues, hiring an experienced lawyer can be beneficial. Prepare documentation relating to your lease, rental payments, and any other relevant correspondence before your initial consultation. Remember, both landlords and tenants have rights and obligations under the law. Seek legal advice if you're uncertain or feel that your rights have been violated.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.