Finding a rental home or shared accommodation in Ontario should be fair and equal for all. Unfortunately, discrimination can occur at any stage—from responding to a rental ad, to signing an agreement or living in a shared household. Understanding your rights under Ontario law empowers you to recognize, prevent, and take action against discrimination when renting, including in roommate or shared housing situations.
Recognizing Discrimination in Ontario Rentals
Discrimination in Ontario rentals is prohibited under the Ontario Human Rights Code and reinforced by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. Discrimination can happen when a landlord, roommate, or property manager treats someone unfairly based on certain personal characteristics ("protected grounds").
- Race, colour, ethnic origin, or ancestry
- Religion or creed
- Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
- Age (18+ for most rental units)
- Family status, marital status
- Disability (including physical or mental health issues)
- Receipt of public assistance (e.g., Ontario Works, ODSP)
Common examples include refusing to rent to someone because of their background, asking illegal questions during interviews, or discriminatory rules in shared housing.
Your Rights as a Tenant or Roommate
Ontario tenants—including those seeking a roommate or renting a shared home—are protected by law from discriminatory treatment at all stages of the rental process. Tenant Rights in Ontario cover fair treatment for all individuals regardless of background or circumstances. Landlords generally cannot select or remove tenants based on a protected ground, and cannot advertise with discriminatory language.
What Landlords and Roommates Can (and Cannot) Ask
It’s important to know what is permitted during the application and rental process:
- Landlords can ask about your ability to pay rent (such as income, employment, or references), but cannot request information about your ethnicity, religion, or family status.
- Requests for rental deposits are regulated—see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for legal details.
- In most cases, even in shared accommodations, discrimination based on a protected ground remains illegal (with narrow exceptions for "shared living areas" in small owner-occupied homes).
Action Steps if You Experience Discrimination
If you believe you were refused a rental or treated unfairly because of discrimination, you have several options:
- Document the incident—keep copies of ads, emails, text messages, or notes from conversations.
- Communicate your concerns in writing with the landlord or roommate if you feel comfortable.
- Contact the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) to learn about complaint options.
- Reach out to a local tenant advocacy group for advice.
Filing a Discrimination Complaint
To formally address housing discrimination, you may file an application with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The process involves using the following official form:
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Form 1: Application to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario
When to use it: If you believe your rights under the Ontario Human Rights Code were violated (for instance, denied a rental or evicted due to race, disability, or other protected grounds).
How to use: Complete the form including specific details and documentation. Submit it online or by mail.
Download Form 1 from the HRTO’s official site
The Tribunal will investigate your complaint, may hold a hearing, and can order remedies if discrimination is found. Quick action and detailed records improve your chances of success.
Roommates & Shared Housing: Special Considerations
Many tenants in Ontario live with roommates or in shared houses. While the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 covers most rental arrangements, there are some exceptions for small owner-occupied homes. If you rent only a single room and share kitchen or bathroom with the owner, some exemptions may apply—but human rights protections generally still exist.
What to Do After Signing a Rental Agreement
Remember, your rights carry forward after you sign a rental agreement. If issues arise over time—such as discriminatory treatment by a landlord or roommate—document events and seek support. For everyday rights and tips following the signing, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
FAQ: Protecting Yourself from Discrimination in Rentals
- What questions can landlords legally ask during rental interviews?
Landlords can only ask about your ability to pay rent, references, and rental history, not about protected characteristics such as your race, religion, or family status. - Can I be refused a rental based on my source of income?
No. In Ontario, it is illegal for a landlord to discriminate based on income source, such as receiving social assistance. - What should I do if I think I’ve been discriminated against?
Document what happened, communicate your concerns in writing (if safe), and consider filing a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. - Do human rights laws apply to all roommate or shared living arrangements?
Most arrangements are covered, but there are some exceptions where you share a kitchen or bathroom directly with an owner who lives there. Legal protections generally still apply in most cases. - Where can I find official resources or help?
You can contact provincial tenant associations, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, or see Tenant Rights in Ontario for more details.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
- Discrimination based on protected grounds is prohibited in most Ontario rental and shared housing situations.
- Document any discrimination you experience and act promptly using official forms and tribunal processes.
- Tenant advocacy groups and official resources are available to support and guide you.
Staying informed empowers you to secure and maintain fair housing in Ontario.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) — File discrimination complaints and learn about your rights
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) — Handle rental disputes, evictions, and general tenant rights issues
- Find your local community legal clinic for free tenant advice: Ontario Legal Aid directory
- More information on rights: Tenant Rights in Ontario
