Ontario · LTB Form N5
Form N5 in Ontario: Notice to End a Tenancy for Interference, Damage or Overcrowding (2026)
Form N5 is the Landlord and Tenant Board notice an Ontario landlord gives when a tenant, their guest or another occupant substantially interferes with others, damages the unit, or overcrowds it. A first N5 gives the tenant 7 days to fix the problem. This guide covers when an N5 applies, first versus second notices, termination dates, and when you can file an L2.
Correction period on a first N5
7 days
If the tenant corrects the problem within 7 days, the notice is void. The termination date must be at least 20 days after you give a first N5.
When an N5 applies
You can give an N5 for any of three reasons, whether the problem was caused by the tenant, the tenant's guest or another occupant of the unit:
- Reason 1: substantial interference with the reasonable enjoyment of the residential complex, or with another lawful right, privilege or interest, of the landlord or another tenant.
- Reason 2: wilful or negligent damage to the rental unit or the residential complex.
- Reason 3: more people living in the unit than health, safety or property standards allow.
When a Form N7 may fit better
If you live in the same building and it has three or fewer residential units, you can give an N7 instead of an N5 for interference. You can also use an N7 for damage if you believe you can prove it was caused wilfully. An N7 cannot be voided and has a shorter notice period. If you are unsure whether you can prove the damage was wilful, the LTB instructions say to use the N5.
First vs second N5, and the termination date
The earliest termination date depends on whether this is the first or second N5 you have given the tenant in the past 6 months.
- First N5 in the past 6 months: the termination date must be at least 20 days after you give the notice. The tenant has 7 days to void it by correcting the problem.
- Second N5 in the past 6 months, where the first gave the tenant 7 days to correct the problem: the termination date must be at least 14 days after you give the notice. The tenant cannot void a second N5.
- Do not count the day you give the notice. Add one business day if you send it by courier, and 5 days if you send it by mail.
How the tenant can void a first N5
On a first N5, the tenant has 7 days to void the notice. What they must do depends on the reason:
- Interference: stop the activities or correct the behaviour you describe in the notice.
- Damage: repair the damaged property, pay you the estimated cost to repair it, replace it if repair is not reasonable, or pay you the estimated cost to replace it.
- Overcrowding: reduce the number of people living in the unit to the number you set out in the notice.
Filing with the LTB (Form L2)
If the tenant does not correct the problem within 7 days of a first N5, you can apply to the LTB on or after the 8th day after giving the notice. On a second N5, you can apply as soon as you have given it. Either way, use Form L2 (Application to End a Tenancy and Evict a Tenant), and file it with a copy of the N5 and a Certificate of Service. You must apply no later than 30 days after the termination date in the notice.
How to give an N5, step by step
- 1
Pick the right reason
Interference, damage or overcrowding. Check whether an N7 applies instead.
- 2
Describe what happened
Be specific: who caused the problem, the dates and times, what happened and who was affected. For overcrowding, name the law or by-law and the maximum number of people it allows.
- 3
Say how to void a first notice
On a first N5, state clearly what the tenant must do to void it. For damage, fill in the estimated cost to repair or replace the property.
- 4
Set the termination date
At least 20 days after you give a first N5, or 14 days for a second within 6 months. Add 5 days if you mail it.
- 5
Serve the notice
Hand it to the tenant or an adult in the unit, leave it in the mailbox, slide it under the door, or send it by fax, courier or mail. You cannot post it on the door.
- 6
File an L2 if needed
From the 8th day after a first N5 that was not corrected, or right away on a second N5, and no later than 30 days after the termination date.
Records to keep
Keep a copy of every N5 you give, with how and when you served it. Keep dated notes, photos, repair estimates and invoices, and any by-law that sets an occupancy limit. The 6-month window for a second N5 depends on knowing exactly when the first one was given.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a tenant have to fix the problem on an N5?
On a first N5 in the past 6 months, 7 days. If the tenant stops the activity, repairs or pays for the damage, or reduces the number of occupants within 7 days, the notice is void.
What is the minimum termination date on an N5?
At least 20 days after you give a first N5, and at least 14 days after you give a second N5 within 6 months. Do not count the day you give it, and add 5 days if you mail it.
Can a tenant void a second N5?
No. If the first N5 in the past 6 months gave the tenant 7 days to correct the problem, a second N5 cannot be voided, and you can apply to the LTB as soon as you give it.
When can I file an L2 after an N5?
On or after the 8th day after giving a first N5 the tenant did not correct, or right after giving a second N5. You must file no later than 30 days after the termination date in the notice.
Can I post an N5 on the tenant's door?
No. You can hand it over, leave it in the mailbox, slide it under the door or through a mail slot, or send it by fax, courier or mail, but not post it on the door.
Keep your tenancy records in order
Automanagement keeps leases, rent history and notices together for every unit, so dates and details are easy to confirm before you give any notice.
General information for landlords, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm the current requirements with the Landlord and Tenant Board. Last reviewed 2026-09-28. Official source