If an Ontario landlord (the applicant) fails to log into their scheduled Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hearing, the adjudicator will generally dismiss the application entirely as “abandoned.” The landlord loses their filing fees and must restart the entire eviction process from the very beginning.
Logging into a virtual Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hearing is a highly nerve-wracking moment for any tenant facing eviction. You might have taken the day off work, gathered all your receipts, and prepared a strong defence for your home in Ottawa, Toronto, or Hamilton. However, sometimes an unexpected twist occurs: the landlord-or their legal representative-simply does not show up. 👀
In the realm of Evictions & Rent Disputes in Ontario, the burden is strictly on the person who filed the application (usually the landlord) to prove their case. If the applicant is absent, they cannot provide evidence or cross-examine the tenant. Therefore, the rules of natural justice dictate that the case cannot proceed. 📝 Understanding how the LTB handles “no-shows” as of May 2026 is crucial to knowing your rights and ensuring the case is fully closed in your favour.
Step-by-Step Process When a Landlord is Absent
Virtual hearings at the LTB operate on a block system, meaning dozens of people are in the same Zoom or Teams lobby waiting for their specific case to be called. Even if your landlord is not visible on the screen, you must navigate the procedural steps properly to ensure the application is officially dismissed. 📋
Step 1: Signing In and Waiting in the Lobby
You must log into the virtual hearing platform at least 15 to 30 minutes early. Sign in using your full legal name so the moderator knows you are present. 💻 Even if you suspect your landlord is not going to attend, you must be present yourself. If neither the landlord nor the tenant shows up, the application is dismissed, but it is always safer to be on the record as having attended.
Step 2: The Adjudicator’s Roll Call
At the start of the block, the adjudicator will perform a roll call for all the cases scheduled that morning. They will call the landlord’s name and then your name. 🗣 When your name is called, confidently state that you are present and ready to proceed. If the landlord does not answer, the adjudicator will make a note of their absence.
Step 3: The Stand-Down Period
Adjudicators are generally fair and understand that technical difficulties happen. If the landlord is missing, the adjudicator will usually “stand down” the case-meaning they will push it to the very end of the morning docket. 📅 They will give the landlord an extra 30 to 60 minutes to resolve any internet issues or dial in by phone.
Step 4: Formal Dismissal of the Application
If the block is ending and the landlord has still not appeared, the adjudicator will recall the file. They will officially state on the record that because the applicant failed to attend, the application is dismissed as abandoned. 💬 As the tenant, you do not need to present any of your evidence. The threat of eviction is immediately neutralized.
How Much Does the No-Show Cost the Landlord?
Failing to attend an LTB hearing carries a significant financial penalty for the landlord, but zero cost for the tenant. Because the application is dismissed, the landlord essentially burns the money they spent trying to initiate the eviction. Here is a breakdown of the financial impact in CAD: 💸
- Lost Filing Fees: The landlord permanently loses the initial filing fee they paid to the LTB, which is typically $186 CAD for an online L1/L2 application, or $201 CAD if filed on paper.
- Lost Paralegal Fees: If the landlord hired a paralegal but the paralegal failed to show up (or dropped the client), the landlord has wasted their $800 to $2,000 CAD retainer.
- Restart Costs: To try to evict you again, the landlord must pay brand new filing fees and wait months for a new hearing.
- Tenant Costs: The tenant pays $0 CAD for the dismissal, though you may be out of pocket for a half-day of lost wages.
| Party | Financial Consequence (CAD) | Procedural Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| The Landlord (Applicant) | Loss of $186 – $201 Filing Fee | Must restart the entire process. |
| The Tenant (Respondent) | $0 Cost | Eviction application dismissed. |
| Legal Representatives | Loss of Billable Hours/Reputation | Case closed by the Board. |
How Long Does the Dismissal Process Take?
You will generally know the outcome within 1 to 2 hours of logging into your scheduled hearing block. Once the adjudicator verbally dismisses the case as abandoned, you are free to log off. 🕑 The LTB will then mail or email you a formal written “Order” confirming the dismissal. Due to administrative backlogs, it may take 2 to 4 weeks for this hard copy order to arrive in your inbox, but the legal victory takes effect the day of the hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this mean I never have to pay the rent I owe?
No. If the eviction was for rent arrears, the dismissal simply means the landlord failed to enforce the eviction *today*. You still legally owe the debt under your lease. The landlord can serve you a new N4 notice tomorrow and start the process all over again.
Can the landlord ask the LTB to undo the dismissal?
Yes. If the landlord missed the hearing due to a genuine emergency (e.g., a car accident or a severe internet outage in their city), they have 30 days to file a “Request to Review.” If the adjudicator accepts their excuse, they may reopen the case and schedule a new hearing date.
What if the landlord’s property manager shows up instead of the landlord?
That is perfectly legal. In Ontario, a landlord can be represented by a licensed paralegal, a lawyer, or an unlicensed direct employee like a property manager. As long as a valid authorized agent attends the hearing, the application will not be dismissed.
Should I stay logged in if my landlord is not there?
Absolutely. You must stay logged into the Zoom/Teams call until the adjudicator officially dismisses your specific file number. If you leave early and the landlord suddenly logs in late, the adjudicator might hold the hearing without you and order your eviction.
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