Notice Tenants Receive

N12: N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit

A notice a landlord gives when they say the unit is needed for their own use, a family member's use, a caregiver, or a purchaser's use. Compensation or an alternative unit is generally required in many N12 situations — check what your notice says and confirm current rules.

OntarioLast reviewed: 2026-07-15Under review

Who this form involves

Landlords give this notice; tenants receive it.

This is a notice a landlord gives. This page explains it from the tenant's perspective — what receiving one does and does not mean.

When it may apply

Your landlord says they, a family member, or a purchaser intends to move into your unit.
The property was recently sold and the buyer says they need the unit.

Cautions and limits

You do not have to move out just because you received an N12. If you stay, the landlord must apply to the LTB, and the LTB decides — including whether the stated intention is genuine.
Compensation rules and notice requirements may apply; confirm the current requirements with the LTB or a legal professional.
If you move out and later learn the stated use never happened, the T5 application may be relevant — preserve evidence either way.
Time limits may apply to this form; confirm current rules with the LTB or a legal professional before you rely on any date.

What this process can lead to

If the landlord applies to the LTB (often with an L2), you can attend the hearing, question whether the requirements were met, and present your circumstances.

Outcomes are never guaranteed — the LTB decides each case on its evidence.

How to prepare

Keep the original notice and note the termination date and stated person who needs the unit.
Record whether any required compensation was offered or paid.
Get legal advice before deciding whether to move — an N12 alone does not end your tenancy.
Start saving evidence about the building and unit in case questions of good faith arise later.

Evidence that tends to matter

Catalogue each item in your evidence index so nothing gets lost.

Notices — the N12 and everything served with it.
Rent payments — records showing any compensation received or not received.
Messages and emails — communications about the sale or the stated move-in.

Other form guides

Not sure which applies? Start from your problem in the Form Navigator.

This is legal information, not legal advice. RTO Pro is not a law firm. Deadlines and exceptions may apply to your situation — a qualified legal professional should confirm anything important before you rely on it.

N12: N12: Notice to End your Tenancy Because the Landlord, a Purchaser or a Family Member Requires the Rental Unit

OntarioLast reviewed: 2026-07-15Under review