Minimum Wage Compliance Checklist - London, Ontario

Labor and Employment Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

This checklist helps employers in London, Ontario meet provincial minimum wage and employment standards obligations. It highlights who sets the wage, required payroll records, posting and pay-period practices, complaint and inspection routes, and practical steps to reduce risk. Use this guide to align hiring, timekeeping and payroll processes with the Employment Standards Act and to prepare for inspections or complaints in the London area.

Checklist for Employers

  • Confirm current provincial minimum wage and review pay bands and overtime rules. [1]
  • Maintain accurate time and payroll records for each employee: hours, wages, deductions, pay periods.
  • Post required employment standards poster in the workplace and provide wage information to employees.
  • Verify pay dates, holiday pay, and overtime calculations; correct errors promptly and document corrections.
  • Train supervisors on lawful deductions, tip pooling rules and exempt employee categories.
  • Designate a contact person for employee concerns and maintain clear complaint procedures.
Start by confirming the current provincially mandated minimum wage before adjusting payroll systems.

Penalties & Enforcement

The Employment Standards Act (Ontario) is enforced by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development; the City of London does not set minimum wage but may provide local complaint assistance. Employers found non-compliant may be ordered to repay wages and face further administrative or court actions. For complaint filing and enforcement procedures see the Ministry guidance. [2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offences procedures: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to repay wages, administrative orders and potential prosecution or court enforcement are possible.
  • Enforcer and inspection: Ministry of Labour inspectors investigate complaints and may inspect workplaces.
  • Appeals and reviews: directions/orders can typically be reviewed through Ministry processes or judicial review; time limits: not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: inspectors and adjudicators may consider reasonable excuse or documented compliance efforts when assessing penalties.
If an employee files a complaint, preserve all payroll and scheduling records immediately.

Applications & Forms

  • No special municipal form is required to comply with minimum wage rules; complaints and claims are submitted to the provincial ministry. See ministry complaint guidance. [2]

Common Violations and Typical Outcomes

  • Failing to pay the minimum wage for all hours worked — remedy: repayment orders and possible administrative action.
  • Improper overtime calculations — remedy: back pay and corrected payroll practices.
  • Unlawful deductions from wages — remedy: reimbursement and potential penalties.
Keep a documented audit trail of corrections to show good-faith compliance efforts.

Action Steps for Employers

  • Audit payroll for the past two years to identify underpayments and correct them.
  • Post the Employment Standards poster where employees can see it and distribute pay statements that match records.
  • Update payroll software settings to reflect current minimum wage, overtime and holiday pay rules.
  • If a complaint is received, gather records and contact the Ministry or local by-law office for next steps.

FAQ

Who sets the minimum wage for employers in London?
The Province of Ontario sets minimum wage and employment standards; employers in London must follow provincial law. [1]
How do employees file a complaint about unpaid wages?
Employees may file a claim with the Ontario Ministry of Labour using the complaint procedures on the ministry website. [2]
Does the City of London have a separate municipal minimum wage?
No, London does not set a separate municipal minimum wage; provincial rules apply.

How-To

  1. Confirm the current Ontario minimum wage and applicable exemptions. [1]
  2. Run a payroll audit for recent periods and identify discrepancies.
  3. Calculate owing amounts, correct pay records and notify affected employees in writing.
  4. Pay outstanding amounts and retain documentation of corrections and communications.
  5. If disputed, advise employees to use the Ministry complaint process or contact By-law Enforcement for local guidance.

Key Takeaways

  • Ontario sets minimum wage; employers in London must comply with provincial employment standards.
  • Maintain accurate payroll records and post required notices to reduce enforcement risk.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Ontario: Minimum Wage
  2. [2] Ontario: How to complain about employment standards

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