Living in an older building can raise questions about asbestos and how it affects renters. As a tenant in Ontario, you have rights to a safe home and to information about hazards that affect habitability. Landlords have responsibilities under provincial law and health or occupational safety rules, and there are practical steps tenants can take if they suspect asbestos: ask for records, request testing, or report safety concerns to the right authorities. This guide explains what Ontario law requires, where to find official forms and tribunal help, how to document concerns, and what to expect during inspections or repairs, using clear language aimed at tenants who need actionable, trustworthy advice.
What Ontario law says about asbestos
Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 requires landlords to maintain a rental unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation[1]. The RTA does not include a specific asbestos disclosure form, but other laws and workplace regulations require information when asbestos work is done. For tenant safety, Ontario's asbestos guidance and occupational rules explain how building owners and contractors must handle asbestos and notify affected people[3].
Landlord and tenant responsibilities
Landlords should know where asbestos-containing materials are located, avoid disturbing them, and hire licensed professionals for removal or repair. Tenants should report concerns promptly and keep written requests and records. If a landlord takes no action, tenants can seek remedies through the Landlord and Tenant Board[2] or health and safety authorities.
- Ask the landlord in writing for any asbestos records or surveys.
- Request a licensed asbestos inspection or testing before any renovation or work that could disturb building materials.
- Keep dated copies of emails, photos, and receipts as evidence of requests and any remediation work.
- If urgent health or safety risks are ignored, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board or contact local public health for next steps.
When to involve other authorities
If workers are at risk during repairs, the Ministry of Labour enforces asbestos rules for workplaces; for uncontrolled exposure affecting residents, contact public health or your municipality. The Landlord and Tenant Board handles disputes about repairs and maintenance and can order remedies or rent reductions.[2]
How to get an inspection or repairs
- Contact your landlord in writing and clearly request an asbestos inspection or survey, stating the location and your concerns.
- Ask the landlord to hire a licensed asbestos assessor and to provide the assessor's report in writing.
- If the landlord refuses, file an application or request a hearing with the Landlord and Tenant Board to seek repairs or abatement orders.
- For immediate health risks or if workers may be exposed, contact the Ministry of Labour or local public health for enforcement and guidance.
If you are looking for newer or renovated units that may pose less asbestos risk, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
For more on tenant safety and preparing for inspections, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and read the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
FAQ
- Does my landlord have to tell me if there is asbestos in my unit?
- There is no specific tenant disclosure form in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, but landlords must maintain a habitable unit and follow asbestos rules when work is done; ask for any existing records and testing results.
- Can I order my own asbestos test?
- You can request testing, but arrange for a licensed assessor and agree on access; if the landlord refuses, submit a written request and consider the Landlord and Tenant Board for remedies.
- What if I feel sick or believe exposure occurred?
- Seek medical advice, keep records of symptoms and exposure situations, and contact local public health and the Ministry of Labour for guidance and enforcement.
How-To
- Write a dated message to your landlord explaining the asbestos concern and request a licensed inspection.
- Agree on safe access for the assessor and ask for a written report that identifies materials and recommended actions.
- If the landlord does not act, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and attach your written requests and any test reports.
- For urgent threats, contact local public health and the Ministry of Labour immediately and keep a record of those contacts.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board applications, forms and hearings
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (legislation)
- Ontario Government Asbestos information and safety
