For most rent-controlled units in 2026, the maximum is the provincial guideline of 2.1% — once every 12 months, with at least 90 days' written notice on the official Form N1. Here's exactly how it works, and how to do it in a minute.
The three rules that always apply
For most units, the 2026 cap is 2.1%. Above that needs an LTB order (AGI) — or the unit must be exempt.
Counted from move-in or the last increase, whichever is later. You can't raise the rent twice in a year.
On the official Form N1. Add 5 days if you serve it by mail. The notice sets the new rent and the effective date.
Year by year
The province sets the guideline each year based on the Consumer Price Index.
| Year | Guideline |
|---|---|
| 2026Current | 2.1% |
| 2025 | 2.5% |
| 2024 | 2.5% |
| 2023 | 2.5% |
| 2022 | 1.2% |
| 2021 | 0.0% (rent freeze) |
| 2020 | 2.2% |
Units first occupied as a residential unit after November 15, 2018 are generally exempt from the guideline — you can raise the rent by more than 2.1% (still once every 12 months, with 90 days' notice). Always confirm your unit's first-occupancy date before relying on this.
For guideline-controlled units, you can apply to the LTB (Form L5) to raise rent above the guideline after major capital work, big tax increases, or new security costs. Learn how an AGI works →
We pre-fill the 2.1% guideline and your new rent, set the earliest legal date, fill the official N1, e-sign and serve it, and apply the increase to your rent ledger automatically on the effective date.
For most rent-controlled units, the maximum is the 2026 rent-increase guideline of 2.1%. On $2,000/month rent that's about $42 more per month. You can only raise the rent once every 12 months and must give at least 90 days' written notice on the official N1 form.
Once every 12 months. The 12 months are counted from the day the tenant moved in, or from the date of the most recent increase — whichever is later. You also have to give at least 90 days' written notice before the increase takes effect, using the LTB's Form N1.
At least 90 days' written notice, served on the official Form N1 (Notice of Rent Increase). The notice has to set out the new rent and the date it takes effect. If you serve the N1 by mail, add 5 days for deemed delivery when counting the 90 days. LandlordEzy fills the N1, sets the earliest legal date, and e-signs and serves it for you.
Yes. Units that were first occupied as a residential unit after November 15, 2018 are generally exempt from the guideline — the rent can be raised by more than the guideline (still with 90 days' notice, once every 12 months). Older units, most social housing, and care homes follow the guideline. Always confirm your unit's status before raising rent above the guideline.
Unless your unit is exempt, you generally need an Above-Guideline Increase (AGI) order from the Landlord and Tenant Board — for example after major capital repairs or large increases in municipal taxes or security costs. You apply on Form L5. Without an order (or an exemption), an increase above the guideline is not enforceable.
Not automatically. When a fixed term ends the tenancy continues month-to-month on the same terms — you still need to follow the rent-increase rules (guideline, 90 days' notice, once per 12 months, Form N1). The tenant does not have to sign a new lease to stay.
LandlordEzy automates the whole thing: it pre-fills the current guideline and new rent, sets the earliest legal effective date, fills the official N1, lets you e-sign and serve it, and then applies the increase to your rent ledger automatically on the effective date. No math, no missed deadlines, no rejected notice.
General information for Ontario, not legal advice. The 2026 guideline shown is 2.1%; confirm the current guideline and exemption rules on the Government of Ontario / LTB website for your situation.
