What does the Residential Tenancies Act govern?

The Residential Tenancies Act governs the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in Ontario. This legislation provides a framework to ensure fair and equitable treatment for both parties in a residential rental agreement. It outlines essential aspects such as the process of rent payment, maintenance obligations, eviction procedures, and conflict resolution strategies. This is crucial in protecting tenants from unfair practices while also establishing the rights of landlords to manage their properties effectively.

Understanding this legislation is vital for anyone involved in residential real estate, as it directly influences how landlords and tenants interact and what legal recourse is available should disputes arise. The focus of the Residential Tenancies Act is strictly on residential properties, which distinguishes it from acts governing commercial properties or regulations regarding taxes and the obligations of real estate agents.