Tenants in Ontario can be directly affected when landlords or property owners ignore required building code repairs. Delayed or missing repairs can create safety hazards such as loss of heat, plumbing failures, mold, or structural risks, and may lead to municipal orders, fines, or tribunal actions. This guide explains who issues fines and orders, how enforcement interacts with provincial tenancy rules, and clear steps renters can take to document problems, report hazards, and file complaints. Practical examples show when to contact your landlord, municipal building officials, or the Landlord and Tenant Board so you can protect your health and legal rights as a renter in Ontario.
How building code repairs relate to tenant safety and enforcement
Building codes set minimum safety and structural standards enforced by municipal building officials and sometimes through provincial offences. When required repairs are ignored, municipalities can issue orders and fines to property owners and, in some cases, pursue charges under the Provincial Offences Act. Separate from municipal enforcement, the Landlord and Tenant Board can hear tenant applications seeking repairs, rent abatement, or compensation under the Residential Tenancies Act.[1][2]
Types of fines and orders you might see
- Municipal orders and monetary fines for building code violations issued by the chief building official when a property breaches the Ontario Building Code or local property standards.
- Compliance orders requiring the owner to complete repairs by a deadline; failure to comply can lead to further penalties and municipal work orders.
- Tribunal remedies from the Landlord and Tenant Board, including orders for repairs, rent abatement, or compensation under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Practical steps tenants can take
Acting promptly and documenting everything improves outcomes. Use this checklist to protect your rights and create a clear record of the problem.
- Take dated photos and videos of the repair issue and keep a written log of when problems began and any conversations or messages with your landlord.
- Give written notice to your landlord describing the needed repairs and a reasonable deadline; keep a copy of the notice and delivery proof (text, email, or registered mail).
- Contact municipal building services if the issue is a code or safety violation (for example, dangerous structure, major water leaks, or lack of heat).
- If the landlord does not act, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board to request repairs, rent abatement, or compensation — include your evidence and copies of notices.[1]
Official forms and when to use them
The Landlord and Tenant Board provides application forms and instructions for tenants who need remedies for repairs or maintenance problems. Use the Board's application forms page to find the correct form and filing method; the forms page lists application types and steps to file online or by mail.[3]
Examples:
- Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (see the Board's forms page for the specific application type). Use this when your landlord has not fixed serious habitability issues after you provided written notice. Example: you gave a written notice about a major leak and mold, the landlord did not act within a reasonable time, so you file an application asking for an order to repair and compensation.
- Gather supporting evidence (photos, repair quotes, receipts, communication logs) to attach to your application so the Board can assess the urgency and extent of harm.
For urgent health and safety concerns like no heat, severe plumbing failure, or fire hazards, follow emergency procedures and see guidance on Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and consult municipal building services immediately.
FAQ
- Who fines landlords for ignoring building code repairs?
- Municipal building officials can issue compliance orders and fines for code violations; the Landlord and Tenant Board may order repairs or compensation under tenancy law.[1]
- Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
- Withholding rent is risky and can lead to eviction; instead, document the problem, give written notice, and apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for remedies.
- How long do I have to file a complaint about repairs?
- Timelines vary by issue and jurisdiction; file with municipal authorities promptly for code violations and apply to the Board as soon as reasonable efforts to obtain repairs have failed.
How-To
- Collect dated photos, videos, and any repair estimates or receipts as evidence.
- Send a clear written notice to your landlord describing the problem and asking for repairs by a reasonable date; keep a copy.
- If the problem affects safety, call or file a complaint with your municipal building services so they can inspect and issue orders if needed.
- Prepare and file the correct Landlord and Tenant Board application, attaching evidence and copies of your notices.
- Attend the hearing or request an adjournment if you need more time; follow any orders issued by the Board and keep records of compliance or delays.
