Tenants dealing with mold in rented housing need clear steps to protect their health and rights in Ontario. Mold can affect habitability, trigger repairs and enforcement under provincial rules, and sometimes lead to penalties for landlords who fail to address it. This guide explains what landlords are required to do, how tenants should document and report mold, and which official forms and tribunal processes can resolve disputes. It uses plain language and practical examples so renters can act with confidence, whether asking for repairs, contacting public health, or applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board. Read on for step‑by‑step actions, timelines, and resources specific to Ontario renters.
What landlords must do about mold in Ontario
Under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 tenants are entitled to a rental unit that is in a good state of repair and fit for habitation. The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles disputes related to repairs and can issue orders requiring remediation or compensation [1][2]. Landlords must address moisture and mold causes promptly, arrange qualified remediation when necessary, and keep records of work and communications.
- Arrange timely repairs to fix leaks, plumbing and water penetration.
- Prevent ongoing water issues by maintaining roofs, windows and exterior drains.
- Provide adequate heating and ventilation to reduce humidity.
- Use qualified contractors for thorough mold remediation and remove affected materials.
- Retain receipts, invoices and work records to show the unit was made safe.
How tenants can report mold and seek enforcement
If you find mold, document it immediately and notify your landlord in writing with a clear request for repair. Keep copies of all messages, photos and any health reports. If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, tenants may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for orders such as repairs, rent abatement or compensation [1]. In urgent health or safety cases, contact local public health for guidance and possible inspection.
- Take dated photos and make a short log of when you first noticed mold.
- Send a written notice to the landlord asking for repairs and keep proof of delivery.
- Contact your local public health unit if you believe there is an immediate health risk.
- If unresolved, prepare to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using the official application process and forms [3].
Penalties and tribunal outcomes
The LTB can order landlords to complete repairs, pay tenants for losses, reduce rent for a period (abatement), or issue other remedies based on the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 [2]. While provincial bodies generally focus on orders rather than criminal fines, persistent non‑compliance or health violations investigated by municipal enforcement or public health can lead to fines or orders under local bylaws.
FAQ
- Can a landlord be fined for mold in Ontario?
- Municipal or public health authorities can issue fines for health or building code violations; the Landlord and Tenant Board itself issues orders and remedies rather than criminal fines.
- What can I ask the Landlord and Tenant Board to order?
- You can ask the LTB for repairs, rent abatement for reduced habitability, compensation for damage or an order requiring proper remediation and documentation.
- Should I stop paying rent if my unit has serious mold?
- Do not withhold rent without legal advice; document the problem and apply to the LTB for an abatement or remedy rather than unilaterally withholding payments.
How-To
- Document the mold with photos, dates and short notes describing smell, visible growth and any health effects.
- Notify the landlord in writing, request repairs, and state a reasonable deadline for action.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection and remediation after receiving written notice of the work.
- Contact your local public health unit for advice if there is a health risk or extensive contamination.
- If the landlord does not act, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using the official application process and bring your documentation to the hearing [3].
- Attend any hearing, present records, and follow the Board's order; if the landlord still does not comply, seek enforcement through the Board or municipal authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must address mold causes and remediate promptly to meet habitability duties.
- Tenants should document problems, notify landlords in writing, and keep evidence for hearings.
- The Landlord and Tenant Board can order repairs, abatement or compensation when landlords fail to act.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
- Public Health Ontario — environmental health resources
