09/13/2026
A New 7-Day N4 Is Here — What Do Landlords and Tenants Need to Know?
Effective September 21, 2026, the termination period for non-payment of rent will be reduced from 14 days to 7 days under amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act.
The updated N4 also provides tenants with clearer information about their obligation to pay rent when it is due, rather than simply withholding rent because they believe there are maintenance or other issues.
Why Does the N4 Address This?
Beginning September 21, 2026, a tenant who wants to raise certain maintenance or other issues at an L1 rent-arrears hearing will be subject to a new payment requirement. The tenant must pay the 50% of the claimed arrears within the required timeframe—currently prescribed as no later than seven days before the hearing.
This is intended to reinforce an important principle: a tenant's dispute with the landlord does not automatically entitle the tenant to withhold rent.
Effects on Hearing Times?
More N4s may mean more L1 hearings. More hearings may mean increased pressure on the Board’s schedule. At the same time, new requirements may help keep arrears hearings focused and efficient.
