There have been a lot of headlines lately concerning rent - whether or not tenants have to pay.  So where does that leave landlords?

Currently, the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) has suspended (until further notice):

• All hearings related to eviction applications, unless the matter relates to an urgent issue such as an illegal act or serious impairment of safety; and
• The issuance of eviction orders, unless the matter relates to an urgent issue such as an illegal act or serious impairment of safety.

While there are groups and websites calling on people to not pay their rent, the provincial government is not in agreement.

During the March 26 press briefing, Premier Doug Ford said, "I heard there was a petition going around (saying) 'just don't pay rent.'  That's wrong, that's hurting people across the board.  We're standing up here for the tenants here so please don't take advantage of it."

Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Steve Clark echoed the Premier's sentiments in an op-ed published in today's Toronto Sun.

"Tenants who can pay their rent must do so, to the best of their abilities.  But I want to be very clear - you cannot be forced to leave your home if you cannot pay your rent on April 1.  Period.  Today, I'm calling on landlords to be as flexible as possible when it comes to collecting rent, starting with April, at a time when many people are struggling.  The same goes for any planned rent increases landlords are contemplating, whether already approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board or not.

Of course, some landlords are also facing challenges, especially small landlords.  While mortgage deferrals are available, some of you are waiting for news from your bank.  Everyone needs to do their part right now.

To the tenants out there who are having challenges paying rent, please speak to your landlord about whether it can be postponed or if other payment arrangements can be agreed to.  And landlords, please be as flexible as you can..."

According to a March 19, 2020 release on Tribunal Ontario's website, all incoming applications will continue to be processed.  Hearings for matters not relating to evictions will proceed by the most appropriate means (telephone or written hearing) and orders for these matters will be issued.