Many tenants and renters in Ontario need clear information about entrances and ramps so they can access their homes safely and ask for changes when needed. This guide explains what landlords must provide, when accessibility features like ramps are required under building and human rights laws, and how tenants can ask for reasonable accommodations. You’ll find practical steps for documenting access issues, which official forms or tribunal applications to use, and examples of common disputes over thresholds, porches, and portable ramps. The language is plain and focused on tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, timelines to expect, and where to get help if a landlord refuses or delays needed accessibility work.
Entrance and ramp basics
In Ontario, entrance and ramp questions can involve three different rules: building and fire code requirements, human rights protections for people with disabilities, and landlord-tenant obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2]. The Landlord and Tenant Board handles many tenancy disputes and can order repairs or modifications when they relate to a landlord's obligations under the Act[1]. If the issue is discrimination because of disability, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario may also be relevant[3].
Who is usually responsible?
Generally, landlords must maintain safe and accessible common areas and ensure a rental unit meets basic standards of habitability. Tenants are responsible for damage they cause. For specific duties and timelines, consult guidance on tenant and landlord obligations and safety standards; this can help when you need to request work or raise a formal complaint. For general health and hazard concerns related to entrances or thresholds, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
When a ramp or modification may be required
- When a tenant or household member has a disability and needs reasonable accommodation to access the unit.
- When an existing entrance is unsafe, creates a hazard, or fails to meet basic habitability standards.
- When building code or municipal bylaws require accessible access for multi-unit buildings undergoing major renovations.
- When a formal written request or application is needed to document and track the accommodation or repair.
How to ask for a ramp or entrance modification
Start by telling the landlord about the access problem and what change you need. Make the request in writing, include supporting details (medical letter if available), and offer reasonable options such as a portable ramp or a permanent modification. If the landlord refuses or delays, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board or seek help from the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario depending on whether the issue is maintenance or discrimination.
Practical steps tenants should take
- Contact the landlord quickly and explain the access issue and desired solution in clear language.
- Document the problem with dated photos, measurements, and copies of any medical or mobility-support information.
- Send a written request (email or letter) asking for the specific accommodation and keep a copy.
- If the landlord refuses, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order or consider a Human Rights application for discrimination.
- Get help from community legal clinics, tenant groups, or accessible legal advice if you need assistance preparing an application.
FAQ
- Do landlords have to install ramps for tenants with disabilities?
- Landlords must provide reasonable accommodation for tenants with disabilities unless it causes undue hardship; whether a ramp must be installed depends on the situation, the cost, and available alternatives.
- Can I install a temporary ramp myself?
- You should get the landlord's written permission before installing a permanent or semi-permanent structure; temporary, removable solutions may be acceptable if agreed and do not damage property.
- What if my landlord refuses to make accessibility modifications?
- Start with a written request and documentation. If the landlord refuses, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order or file a human rights complaint if discrimination is involved.
How-To
- Contact your landlord to describe the access issue and request a reasonable accommodation in writing.
- Collect evidence: dated photos, measurements, medical documentation (if available), and notes of conversations.
- Send a clear written request that states the accommodation you want and keep a copy for your records.
- If the landlord refuses, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order and be prepared to attend a hearing.
- Seek support from tenant advocacy groups or legal clinics if you need help filing forms or preparing for a hearing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board - Tribunals Ontario
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 - e-Laws
- Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario
