How Long Does an Eviction Take in Toronto?

Eviction is rarely quick in Toronto at these times. Even when a tenant clearly violates the lease, Ontario landlords are often surprised by how long the eviction process actually takes. Understanding realistic timelines — and what causes delays — can help landlords plan properly and avoid costly mistakes.

This guide explains how long an eviction typically takes in Toronto, what affects the timeline, and what landlords can do to prevent unnecessary setbacks.

The Short Answer: Average Eviction Timelines in Toronto

In most Toronto cases, a residential eviction takes approximately 4 to 8 months from the first notice to enforcement by the Sheriff. Some cases take less time, while others can extend well beyond this range.

Timelines depend on:

The type of eviction notice used
Whether documents are served correctly
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) backlog
The tenant’s response and conduct

Typical Eviction Timeline Breakdown (Ontario)

1. Serving the Eviction Notice

The eviction process starts with serving the correct notice:

N4 (Non-payment of rent): 14 days (monthly tenancy)
N5 (Interference, damage, behaviour): 7 days (first notice)
N12 (Landlord’s own use): 60 days
N13 (Renovation or demolition): 120 days

Common mistake: Using the wrong notice or completing/serving it incorrectly, which invalidates the process.

2. Waiting Period After the Notice

Landlords must wait the full statutory notice period before filing an application with the LTB. Filing too early results in dismissal. This waiting period alone can range from 7 days to several months, depending on the notice used.

3. Filing the Application with the LTB

After the notice period expires, the landlord files:

L1 application (usually after an N4)
L2 application (most other eviction notices)

Due to ongoing demand at the LTB, it can take 6 to 12 weeks or more to receive a hearing date in Toronto.

Due to ongoing demand at the LTB, it can take 6 to 16 weeks or more to receive a hearing date in Toronto.

4. Preparing for the Hearing

Evidence preparation is critical. Landlords must organize:

The notice and proof of service
Payment records
Photographs, repair invoices, or complaints
Written witness statements (if applicable)

Poor preparation is one of the leading causes of delays or dismissals.

5. The LTB Hearing

Hearings are conducted virtually (in most cases) or in person (in exceptional cases). Depending on the complexity of the case, the adjudicator may:

Issue a decision orally, or
Reserve the decision and issue a written order later

Written orders often take several weeks to be released. An eviction cannot be enforced without a written order.

6. Eviction Order and Enforcement

Once an eviction order is issued, landlords cannot enforce it themselves. Enforcement must be carried out by the Sheriff’s Office.

In Toronto, scheduling the Sheriff can take 3 to 4 additional weeks, sometimes longer during busy periods.

What Causes Eviction Delays in Toronto?

The most common causes include:

Incorrect or defective notices
Improper service of documents
Missing or weak evidence
Tenant requests for relief or repayment plans
LTB scheduling backlogs and related adjournments

Can a Landlord Speed Up an Eviction in Ontario?

While landlords cannot bypass the legal process, they can reduce delays by:

Using the correct notice from the start
Strictly following service rules
Filing applications on time
Preparing complete, organized evidence
Getting professional assistance early

Small procedural errors can easily add months to the process. Read more here about the most common Landlord’s mistakes.

In some cases, a Landlord may request an expedited hearing before the Landlord and Tenant Board. If such a request is granted, it may significantly speed up the proceedings.

When Professional Help Makes a Difference

Many Toronto eviction applications are dismissed not because the landlord is wrong, but because the process was not followed precisely. Early involvement of a licensed paralegal can prevent errors that force landlords to start over.

Frequently Asked Questions