What do I do if I receive an N4 Notice?

Renting can be difficult and facing financial difficulties can happen to anyone. If you are faced with an N4 Notice and you don't know what to do, here are some things you should know as a tenant if you have received this notice.

What is an N4 Notice? 

An N4 Notice is a legal document from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) that a property owner can serve their tenant if rent is owed. Unforeseen circumstances can sometimes lead to missed rent payments. If you were unable to pay your rent, even a day later, property owners can give you an N4 Notice to provide notice that you could be evicted from you from your rental, if your outstanding rent arrears are not paid.

What You Should Note

It’s important to note that you do not have to move out by the termination date shown on the N4 notice. The notice gives you a 14-day period to pay the rent that is owed as shown by the Landlord. You also will void the notice if you pay off all your arrears and any new rent that is due on or before the termination date on the notice. 

What if I can’t pay the full amount owed? 

If you are faced with financial difficulties and you can’t pay the full amount of rent that is owed, it is possible your property owner may apply to the LTB for an eviction hearing. It is important to present evidence and explain the reasons and circumstances of why you can’t pay rent when at the hearing. After this, an LTB Member would decide whether to grant the landlord’s eviction application.

What if I disagree with the amount the property owner claims? 

If you disagree with the amount that the property owner claims you owe, there are a few options to consider. You can wait for your property owner to file an application and for a hearing to be scheduled. If the hearing is called, you will be able to explain your reasons for disagreement on the amount owed. Supply evidence for the LTB Member in advance to be prepared

Resources 

• For a full list of tips on what to do when faced with an N4 Notice, visit the Advocacy Centre for Tenant Ontario (ACTO) tip sheet here.
• Visit our list of Emergency resources in Waterloo Region or Eviction Prevention Resources

If you are at risk of losing your home, we are here to help. Please reach out to our Resource Centre at 519-749-2450 or drop into our resource center Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.

*Please note, Starling Housing Services (formerly Lutherwood) does not give out legal advice.