Tenants in Ontario have the right to basic services such as heat and hot water. This guide explains who is usually responsible for repairs, what counts as an urgent problem, simple steps you can take to request fixes, and how to use official forms and the Landlord and Tenant Board if issues continue. The information is written for renters and uses clear language to describe timelines, documentation, and when to escalate a situation. Knowing how to report problems, keep records, and follow formal complaint steps can protect your comfort and legal rights in Ontario.
Who is responsible for heating and hot water?
In Ontario, landlords are generally required to provide and maintain vital services like heat and hot water so the unit meets basic habitability standards under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.[1] Tenants must allow reasonable access for repairs and should report problems promptly in writing so there is a clear record.
Urgent repairs and timelines
Loss of heating or hot water is usually treated as an urgent repair. If a system fails in cold weather or creates unsafe conditions, landlords should arrange repairs as quickly as possible. If the landlord does not act, tenants can seek help from municipal building or public health officials and from the Landlord and Tenant Board for enforcement or orders.[3][2]
Practical steps to take right away
- Notify the landlord or property manager in writing with the problem, the time it started, and a request to repair.
- Keep records: photos, videos, and copies of messages or written requests.
- If the landlord arranges a repair, keep the technician’s name, date, and a receipt if work was billed to you.
- If unresolved, consider filing an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order to repair and any rent abatement you request.
When tenants can arrange repairs themselves
Tenants sometimes pay for emergency repairs to prevent loss or danger; keep all receipts and written proof. You may be able to ask the Landlord and Tenant Board to order repayment or a rent reduction if the repair was the landlord’s responsibility and you had to act to prevent harm.
How to file with the Landlord and Tenant Board
Use the Landlord and Tenant Board's application forms and guides to start a claim when a landlord will not fix heating or hot water. The Board website lists available application types and instructions; the exact form name and number are available on the official forms page. Typical tenant applications ask for an order to repair, a rent abatement, or both.[2]
Routine repairs vs emergency repairs
Routine maintenance (filters, minor leaks) should be scheduled and allowed reasonable time to be fixed. Emergencies (no heat in winter, no hot water, gas leaks) require quicker action and may justify faster escalation to authorities or the Board. For practical guidance on emergencies and tenants’ rights, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and for everyday responsibilities see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Who must fix heating and hot water?
- The landlord is usually responsible for maintaining heat and hot water so the unit meets habitability standards under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.[1]
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- Loss of heat in cold weather, no hot water, or situations that create immediate health or safety risks are treated as emergency repairs and should be reported right away.
- Can I withhold rent if heating or hot water isn’t fixed?
- Do not withhold rent without legal advice. Instead, document the issue and file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for orders such as repair or rent abatement.[2]
How-To
- Report the problem in writing to your landlord with date, time, and description.
- Document the issue with photos, videos, and copies of messages and any technician receipts.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs and follow up if work is delayed.
- If unresolved, complete the appropriate Landlord and Tenant Board application and submit evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain heat and hot water so units are habitable.
- Always report problems in writing and keep clear documentation.
- If problems continue, use the Landlord and Tenant Board and official forms to seek orders.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- Repairs and maintenance guidance - Government of Ontario
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
