While landlords in Ontario use various “N” forms to legally end a tenancy, tenants have a formal document of their own: the **N9, Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy**. This form is a crucial tool for ensuring a smooth and legally sound move-out process. It is the official way for a tenant to notify their landlord of their intention to move out and formally end their tenancy.
What is an N9 Form?
The N9 form is a standard document from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) that a tenant completes to provide notice that they are ending their tenancy. By using this form, a tenant creates a clear, written record of their notice, which helps prevent future disputes over rent or move-out dates. It requires basic but essential information, including the names of all tenants and landlords, the address of the rental unit, and the specific date the tenancy will end.
The Importance of Notice Periods
The most critical part of using an N9 form is understanding and following the correct notice period. The amount of notice you must provide depends on your type of tenancy:
- Fixed-Term Tenancy: You must give at least **60 days’ notice**, and the termination date must be the **last day of your lease term**. For example, if your lease ends on August 31, the earliest you can give notice to move out is July 1st.
- Month-to-Month Tenancy: You must give at least **60 days’ notice**, and the termination date must be the **last day of a rental period**. For most people who pay rent on the first of the month, this means the move-out date must be the last day of the month.
- Daily or Weekly Tenancy: You must give at least **28 days’ notice**, and the termination date must be the last day of a rental period.
Failing to give proper notice can result in a tenant being liable for additional rent, even after they have moved out.
When Else Can an N9 Be Used?
The N9 form can also be used in some special circumstances to end a tenancy early. For example, if a landlord gives you a “no-fault” eviction notice like an N12 (for personal use) or N13 (for demolition/renovation), a tenant can respond with an N9 and give just **10 days’ notice** to move out sooner. This allows a tenant to leave on their own timeline and not be tied to the landlord’s original termination date.
Final Thoughts
Using the N9 form correctly protects both the tenant and the landlord by ensuring a clear and documented end to the tenancy, preventing misunderstandings and future legal problems. It is a tenant’s most effective tool for a smooth and peaceful move.
You can find the official N9 form on the Landlord and Tenant Board website.
Find the form: N9 – Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy
