Dealing with a broken fence or a gate that won’t latch can be stressful for tenants. This guide explains how renters in Ontario can approach fence and gate maintenance disputes, what repairs landlords are typically responsible for, and practical steps tenants can take when issues aren’t fixed. You’ll find clear guidance on written requests, documenting damage, timelines for repairs, and when to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a remedy. The tips focus on everyday situations, use plain language for renters, and point to official forms and resources so you can act with confidence. Where possible, the guide also explains how to avoid common delays and what evidence matters most in hearings.
Who is responsible?
In Ontario the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out basic obligations for landlords to maintain the rental property in a good state of repair and fit for habitation.[2] Tenants are expected to take reasonable care and avoid damage beyond normal wear and tear. If your lease has specific clauses about fences, gates or shared yards, read them carefully and keep copies of any relevant lease sections and photos.
Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained
Steps tenants can take to resolve a fence or gate problem
- Send a clear written repair request to your landlord describing the problem and the safety risk, and keep a copy.
- Document damage with dated photos, short videos and a dated log of messages and visits.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs if the landlord arranges contractors, but ask for ID and written confirmation of appointment.
- Set reasonable timelines in your request (for example, 7–14 days for safety-related fixes) and note the date you served the request.
- If the landlord does not respond or refuses, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order; follow the Boards application instructions.[1]
Repairs, routine maintenance and practical examples
Simple fixes like tightening a gate latch may be routine maintenance, while replacing a rotten post is a repair that a landlord usually must arrange. If a shared fence between two rental properties needs work, check your lease and discuss cost sharing. When a fence creates a safety risk (for example, it is falling or creates an escape route for pets or children), state that in your written request and ask for urgent attention.
Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
Official forms and when to use them
- Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (see the Boards application forms page) — used by tenants to ask the Board to order repairs or other remedies; include your documentation and a clear statement of the remedy you want.[3]
- Written repair request (no fixed provincial template required) — send by email or recorded mail and keep the receipt; for example: "On May 2 I reported the gate latch is broken; please repair within 10 days."
FAQ
- Who pays for fence repairs?
- Generally the landlord is responsible to maintain the property, including fences that are part of the rental premises, unless your lease says otherwise or damage was caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear.
- How long should I wait for a repair?
- There is no single legal deadline, but respond with a reasonable timeline in writing (for example 714 days for urgent safety issues). If the landlord does not act, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board.[1]
- Can I hire someone and deduct the cost from my rent?
- Tenants should not unilaterally deduct repair costs from rent. Instead, document the issue, request repairs in writing, and if necessary apply to the Board for an order and compensation.
How-To
- Write a dated repair request describing the fence or gate problem and the safety concern; keep a copy.
- Collect evidence: take dated photos, short videos, and save messages and receipts.
- Wait a reasonable period (for example 714 days for urgent issues); follow up in writing if there is no response.
- If needed, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board with your documentation for a remedy or order.[1]
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board - Tribunals Ontario
- Renting in Ontario - Official provincial guide
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 - e-Laws
