Understanding your rights and responsibilities when it comes to maintenance and repairs in Ontario rental properties can protect your health, safety, and deposit. This guide demystifies what landlords and tenants need to know about upkeep, emergency repairs, and more—ensuring your home remains comfortable and legally compliant under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Important Facts Every Ontario Tenant Should Know About Maintenance and Repairs
1. Landlords Are Obligated to Maintain the Unit in Good Repair
According to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, landlords must keep the rental property in a good state of repair, fit for habitation, and comply with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards—regardless of your lease agreement.[1] This includes plumbing, heating, appliances provided, and structural issues.
2. Tenants Must Promptly Report Maintenance Issues
Tenants are expected to report any maintenance or repair issue to the landlord as soon as possible. Delaying could risk further damage or affect your responsibility if the problem worsens due to lack of reporting.
3. Responsibilities for Minor and Major Repairs
Landlords are responsible for most repairs. Tenants must keep their unit reasonably clean and must not deliberately cause damage. For distinctions and details, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
4. Emergency Repairs Require Swift Action
Issues like no heat in winter, power outages, water leaks, or broken doors/windows are considered emergencies. If you can't reach your landlord, you may hire a professional to fix the emergency and request reimbursement, but keep all documentation. For more, visit Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
5. Health and Safety Standards Must Be Maintained
Landlords cannot ignore repairs affecting your health or safety, such as mold growth, pests, or unsafe wiring. Learn more from Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
6. How to Ask for Repairs in Writing
- Document the issue clearly with photos or videos.
- Send a written request (email, letter, or text) outlining the needed repair, date, and possible impact on health or safety.
- Keep copies of all correspondence.
7. When Can Tenants Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
If repairs aren't completed in a reasonable time after written notice, you can apply to Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for help. Use the official T2 – Application about Tenant Rights form:
- Form Name & Number: T2 – Application about Tenant Rights
- When to Use: If your landlord ignores maintenance/repair requests
- How to Use: Complete the form, provide evidence (photos, letters), and submit to the LTB. Access the T2 Form here
8. Pest Problems—Who Is Responsible?
Landlords are generally responsible for dealing with pests such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or mice. Tenants should cooperate with inspections or treatments. See Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
9. Withholding Rent Is Not Legal
Ontario tenants may not legally withhold rent if a landlord fails to do repairs. Instead, follow the complaint and application process outlined above.
10. You Are Protected from Retaliation
It is illegal for your landlord to evict you or raise your rent simply because you requested a repair or maintenance. Record all your maintenance requests and responses.
If you’re searching for a new place while ensuring maintenance standards, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maintenance and Repairs
- Who is responsible for fixing a leaking faucet or broken appliance?
For most repairs, including faucets and appliances provided with the unit, landlords are responsible unless you caused the damage. - Can I make repairs myself and take the cost off my rent?
No, Ontario law does not allow tenants to deduct repair costs from their rent. Always seek landlord approval for any repairs. - What should I do if repairs are urgent but the landlord can’t be reached?
Hire a professional if it's an emergency repair and request reimbursement, but keep all records. Notify the landlord as soon as possible. - How do I document my repair requests?
Send a written (email/letter/text) request with details and photos. Keep a dated copy for your records. - Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice for repairs?
No, except in emergencies. For non-urgent repairs, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice.
How to File a Maintenance Complaint in Ontario
- How do I start a maintenance or repair complaint?
First, put your request in writing to your landlord with clear details and photos if possible. - What if the landlord doesn’t respond?
Send a follow-up notice. If there’s still no action, prepare documentation of your requests. - How can I apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
Fill out and submit the T2 – Application about Tenant Rights, including all evidence, to the Landlord and Tenant Board. - Will I need to attend a hearing?
Yes, the LTB may call you and the landlord for a hearing. Bring all documentation and evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain rental units in good, safe condition by law
- Tenants should report issues promptly in writing and keep documentation
- For unresolved repairs, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using the T2 form
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board – Information, application forms, and guidance
- Ontario Tenant Rights Portal – Official government resource for tenant rights
- Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) – Free legal information and tenant helpline
- Review your full rights via Tenant Rights in Ontario
