Understanding the "Request to Reschedule a Hearing" Form in Ontario
If you are involved in a housing dispute or tenancy matter in Ontario, you may be required to attend a hearing before the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). However, circumstances can sometimes prevent you from attending on the scheduled date. In such cases, you can submit a Request to Reschedule a Hearing form. This official document allows you to ask the LTB to change the date of your hearing, provided you follow the proper procedures.
Who Should Use This Form?
This form is intended for any party involved in a housing-related application before the LTB, including landlords, tenants, or their representatives. If you are unable to attend a scheduled hearing due to valid reasons—such as illness, scheduling conflicts, or emergencies—you should complete this form to request a new hearing date. Remember, you need to obtain the consent of all involved parties before submitting your request.
How to Fill Out the Form
1. Basic Information
- File Number: Enter the unique number associated with your case.
- Language Preference: Indicate whether you prefer communication in English or French. If you wish to receive services in French, complete the separate Request for French Language Services form.
2. Party Details
- Select your role: landlord, tenant, or their representatives.
- Provide your full name, company name (if applicable), mailing address, contact numbers, and email address.
- Choose your preferred method of communication: mail or email.
3. Hearing Information
- Specify the date of the hearing you wish to reschedule.
- Note that your request must reach the LTB at least five business days before the scheduled hearing.
4. Consent from Other Parties
Confirm whether you have obtained agreement from the other involved parties to reschedule. This can be done verbally or in writing. Providing proof of consent can strengthen your request.
5. Reasons for Rescheduling
Explain why you cannot attend the original hearing date. Include details about scheduling conflicts, health issues, or other valid reasons. Attach additional sheets if necessary and provide supporting documentation if available.
6. Availability for Three Months
List dates when you, the landlord, tenant, or their representatives, are unavailable for three months following the original hearing date. This helps the LTB find a new date that accommodates everyone.
Submitting the Request
Once completed, your request can be submitted through multiple channels:
- Upload via the Tribunals Ontario Portal by logging into your account, selecting your file number, and uploading the document under Documents, Evidence and Requests.
- Send an email to [email protected].
- Mail or courier the form to the regional office listed on your Notice of Hearing.
- Fax the request to 1 (833) 610-2242 or 416-326-6455.
Ensure that your request is received at least five business days before the scheduled hearing. Failure to meet this deadline may result in your request being denied.
Important Considerations
Before submitting, remember:
- You must obtain consent from all parties involved—preferably in writing—to reschedule.
- The LTB will review your request and notify you of the decision. The hearing will proceed as scheduled if your request is denied.
- Attending the hearing is crucial; if you do not attend without a valid rescheduling request, your case may be dismissed.
Additional Tips and Common Errors
Ensure all sections of the form are completed accurately, especially:
Fill in your form directly online
No printing: type your details into the boxes of the official form, tick, then download the PDF ready to send.
- 1Type into the form boxes
- 2Tick in one click
- 3Save and download the PDF
- Correct case and hearing details.
- Clear reasons for rescheduling, supported by documentation if possible.
- Unavailability dates for all relevant parties within the specified period.
Inaccurate or incomplete information may delay or prevent your request from being approved. Always verify your contact details and ensure all consent requirements are met before submission.
Legal and Confidentiality Notice
Submitting false or misleading information is an offense under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. The LTB may make your case details publicly available unless you seek a confidentiality order. For questions about confidentiality or access to records, contact the LTB at [email protected] or call their contact center.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively request to reschedule your hearing and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
