Dealing with an unresponsive landlord who won’t make repairs in your Ontario rental unit can be stressful and frustrating. Fortunately, Ontario’s laws protect tenants’ right to a safe and well-maintained home. If your landlord refuses to address repairs, it’s important to know your options, the steps to take, and where to get help. This guide walks you through your rights, official processes, and practical advice—without the legal jargon.
Your Right to Repairs in Ontario Rentals
Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 requires landlords to maintain rental units in a good state of repair and comply with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards. This applies whether you have a written or verbal rental agreement, and even if repairs were needed before you moved in. Tenants are protected against retaliation by the landlord for requesting repairs.
- Landlords must fix anything that makes the place unsafe or unfit to live in
- This includes plumbing, heating, appliances (if provided), windows, doors, and any issues affecting health or safety
If you’re unsure about your landlord’s responsibilities, our Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained article provides further details on what each party is required to do.
Documenting the Repair Issue
Before acting, always document the repair problem. Take clear photos, write down dates and details, and keep a record of your communications with the landlord. For issues affecting health and safety, like mould, pests, or broken locks, consider reviewing Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
How to Request Repairs: Steps for Tenants
- Step 1: Notify Your Landlord in Writing
If possible, send an email or letter describing the repair needed, when it began, and request a timeline for completion. Keep a copy for your records. - Step 2: Give a Reasonable Time to Respond
Landlords need a reasonable period to address non-urgent repairs (usually several days to 1–2 weeks depending on the issue). - Step 3: For Emergencies
If water, heat, or security is affected, it is considered “urgent”. If the landlord doesn’t respond quickly, you may take reasonable steps (such as hiring a professional) and may be able to deduct the cost from your rent—document everything and seek advice first.
See Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for more info.
What to Do If the Landlord Refuses or Ignores Your Request
If, after following these steps, your landlord still does not make repairs, you have formal options to escalate the issue. Here’s a brief summary of what you can do next:
- Contact your municipality’s bylaw or property standards office (for local repair and safety issues)
- Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for an order to force repairs and possibly seek a rent reduction
Filing a Complaint with Your Municipality
Most Ontario cities have bylaw enforcement or property standards officers. If the issue violates health, safety, or property standards, contact them. An officer can inspect and order your landlord to repair.
Applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the tribunal that resolves disputes related to rental housing in Ontario. If the municipality can’t help, or the problem persists, you can apply to the LTB for help.
- Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance
Use this official form if you want the Board to order the landlord to do repairs, reimburse you for out-of-pocket costs, or reduce your rent because the landlord failed to meet repair obligations.
How to use Form T6:
- Get the form at the LTB Forms page
- Complete it with clear details, supporting documents (photos, communications, receipts), and what you’re asking for
- File online, by mail, or in person. There is an application fee (fee waivers may be available for low income)
- The Board will notify you and your landlord of a hearing date; you’ll need to present your evidence
Understanding Possible Outcomes
If you succeed at the Landlord and Tenant Board, potential remedies include:
- An order for the landlord to complete repairs
- A rent abatement (temporary reduction)
- Reimbursement for expenses you paid to fix urgent issues
- Termination of your rental agreement (for very serious or prolonged issues)
Waiting for repairs can be frustrating, but Ontario’s process is designed to offer you protection and enforce your rights. For a detailed breakdown of routine repair responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
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For more details on your key rights, including evictions and deposits, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What repairs is my landlord responsible for in Ontario?
Your landlord must repair anything affecting health, safety, or habitability—including heating, plumbing, and appliances provided with your unit. - Can I hold back rent if repairs aren’t made?
No, you can’t legally withhold rent. Instead, apply to the LTB using Form T6 and keep paying rent on time until an order is made. - What should I do in an emergency repair situation?
Try to reach your landlord immediately, then contact professionals if necessary and document everything. Follow up with the LTB or your local bylaw office if needed. - Can my landlord evict me for asking for repairs?
Landlords cannot evict tenants for asserting their right to repairs. This is considered “reprisal” and is illegal under Ontario’s rental laws. - How do I apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
Complete Form T6, attach supporting documents, and submit it to the LTB either online, in person, or by mail.
Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants
- Document all repair issues and communications with your landlord
- Use written requests and official forms for unresolved repairs
- The Landlord and Tenant Board can order repairs or provide rent relief
Knowing your rights and following the correct procedures can make the process less stressful and often leads to a positive resolution.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Applications, guides, and forms
- Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Official rental rights page
- Local property standards/by-law office: Check your city or town’s website
- Ontario Tenants’ Rights Advocacy: Clinics such as Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario
- Community legal clinics (search for your local office)
- Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Review the full legislation
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), part of Tribunals Ontario. Official LTB website
- Ontario LTB Forms: Form T6. Download Form T6
- Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Renting in Ontario – Your Rights
