Many renters in Ontario face problems when landlords don’t fix serious maintenance issues. This guide explains, in clear steps, how a tenant can ask the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) to order repairs, what forms and evidence you need, and realistic timelines. It covers when to try informal requests first, how to document problems like lack of heat or water, and what happens at a hearing. The language is plain and aimed at tenants who are not legal experts. Follow these steps to prepare a focused application, avoid common mistakes, and increase the chance the LTB will grant an order to make necessary repairs in your rental unit.
Who handles repair orders in Ontario
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hears disputes about repairs and can order a landlord to do specific work or pay for repairs if the tenant is successful. Landlord and Tenant Board[1] The underlying law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, which defines landlord obligations about maintenance and habitability.Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2]
Before you apply to the LTB
Start by telling your landlord in writing about the problem and give them a reasonable chance to fix it. Keep a dated copy of every message you send and any responses you receive. If the issue is urgent — no heat, no hot water, flooding, or active mould that affects health — say so and ask for immediate action.
Which forms to use
If informal steps don’t work, you must file an application with the LTB. Use the LTB forms page and the appropriate tenant application (for many repair and maintenance disputes tenants use the Application about Tenant Rights). LTB forms and applications[3] The form tells you what to include and how to serve it on the landlord.
What to include in your application
- A clear description of the repairs needed, including dates the problem started and whether it is ongoing.
- Evidence: photos, videos, repair requests, and any written responses from the landlord.
- Dates and copies of written requests you gave the landlord asking for repairs.
- A timeline of events showing attempts to resolve the issue before applying to the LTB.
- Names and contact details of witnesses, such as neighbours or health professionals, if applicable.
Filing, timelines and service
Follow the instructions on the LTB form for filing and serving the landlord. The LTB will list the matter and send a hearing date; timelines vary depending on caseload and urgency. If you asked for an urgent hearing, explain why immediate relief is needed and include urgent supporting evidence.
What happens at the hearing
At the hearing you and the landlord can present evidence and witnesses. The LTB member considers whether the landlord breached the Residential Tenancies Act and may order specific repairs, a schedule for completion, a rent abatement, or payment for repairs the tenant had done.
After an order
- The landlord must follow the LTB order by the deadlines stated in the order.
- If the landlord does not comply, you can return to the LTB to enforce the order; the LTB can issue further directions or fines.
When to get extra help
If the issues are complicated, you can get help from community legal clinics, tenant advocacy groups, or a lawyer. If a repair involves health risks, contact local public health for advice while you pursue the LTB route.
Related guides
For context on what counts as unsafe or unhealthy in a rental, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. For clarity about who usually pays for routine fixes and what to expect, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. If you need help communicating a complaint to your landlord, consult How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide.
You can also search listings if you are considering a move: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- What remedies can the LTB order for repairs?
- The LTB can order specific repairs, set deadlines, award compensation for loss of use or out-of-pocket repair costs, or reduce rent until the problem is fixed.
- How long does the process take?
- Timing varies. Some urgent matters are listed faster, but average scheduling depends on LTB caseload and whether either party requests adjournments.
- Do I need a lawyer to apply?
- No. Tenants can represent themselves. Legal advice or a community legal clinic can help if the case is complex.
How-To
- Write and send a dated written request to your landlord describing the problem and asking for repairs; keep a copy.
- Gather evidence: photos, videos, repair logs, and any health or inspection reports.
- Complete the appropriate LTB application form and follow filing instructions on the LTB website.
- Serve the landlord with the application as instructed and keep proof of service.
- Attend the hearing with your evidence and be ready to explain what you want the LTB to order.
- If the landlord does not comply with an order, return to the LTB to ask for enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything: dated photos, messages, and repair requests improve your case.
- Try to resolve issues informally first, but apply to the LTB if repairs are not made in a reasonable time.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
- Ontario.ca – Renting in Ontario and tenant rights
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
