Moving into a new rental in Ontario should mean a clean, safe, and healthy home. Yet, issues like mold, pests, or other health hazards can put your family’s well-being at risk. This guide explains your legal rights, what landlords must do, and the steps you can take if hazards are found in your Ontario rental.
Your Right to a Safe and Healthy Rental Home
Under Ontario law, tenants have the right to live in a home that is safe and in good repair. This includes protection from hazards such as:
- Mold and dampness
- Pest infestations (bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, etc.)
- Unsafe or unsanitary conditions (broken smoke alarms, leaks, structural hazards)
Landlords are legally required to maintain the rental unit and common areas in a good state of repair, fit for habitation, and compliant with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards. These obligations are set by the Residential Tenancies Act, 20061.
Common Health Hazards in Rentals
- Mold: Often caused by leaks, poor ventilation, or unaddressed water damage.
- Pests: Infestations by vermin like bed bugs, rodents, and cockroaches.
- Lead or Asbestos: In older homes, though rare, these should be addressed by qualified professionals.
- Fire/Safety Risks: Missing smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, or faulty wiring.
To learn more about your rental's safety requirements, check the Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting guide.
What Are Landlords Responsible For?
Ontario landlords must address hazards even if tenants were not the source. For example:
- A landlord cannot refuse to fix a mold problem, even if it developed after you moved in.
- Pest removal (including fumigation or extermination) is typically the landlord’s responsibility.
- Routine repairs and keeping systems like heating, plumbing, and electricity safe and functional are mandatory.
For a full outline of repair duties, see the Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities article.
Action Steps if You Discover Mold or Pests
- Document the Problem: Take photos or videos. Make notes of locations and dates for your records.
- Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Explain the issue clearly, request a repair or treatment, and keep a copy.
- Give the Landlord Reasonable Time: Depending on severity, 24-72 hours is common for health hazards.
- If Not Resolved: You can seek help from your municipal property standards or by applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
Filing a Complaint or Applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
If your landlord fails to act, you can submit an "Application about Maintenance – Form T6" to the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. This can result in an order for repairs, rent abatement, or compensation.
- Form Name/Number: Application about Maintenance – Form T6
- When to Use: If your landlord does not fix a health hazard after written notice. Example: You reported mold, but no repairs have been done for a week.
- How to File: Complete Form T6 and submit online or in person to the LTB. Attach your evidence and communication records.
Special Note: Pest Infestations
Ontario treats pest issues seriously. Tenants should:
- Report pest problems immediately.
- Cooperate with treatments (following prep instructions, allowing access for pest control).
- Document all communications and pest sightings for your records.
For detailed guidance, read Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.
What If Your Unit Is Uninhabitable?
Serious hazards may make your unit unsafe to live in. Depending on the situation, you may:
- Be entitled to a rent reduction or compensation.
- Have grounds to terminate your tenancy early (speak to the LTB for advice).
Where possible, get written Orders from local bylaw or health inspectors as further proof.
Summary
Ontario tenants are protected from unsafe living situations. You have options—and support—if things go wrong.
For more legal details, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario, and if you’re looking for safer, healthier accommodation, Browse apartments for rent in Canada through trusted platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is responsible for removing mold or pests in my Ontario rental?
Landlords are generally responsible for addressing both mold and pests, including repairs and professional treatments. - What can I do if my landlord ignores my repair requests?
If written requests go unanswered, you can file a T6 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order to repair, rent reduction, or compensation. - Can I stop paying rent if there are severe health hazards?
No. You must continue paying rent but can apply for a rent reduction or abatement through the LTB. - What evidence should I collect about health hazards?
Photos, videos, detailed notes, and copies of all communications with your landlord are important for your case.
Key Takeaways
- Ontario law requires safe and healthy rental conditions.
- Document problems, communicate in writing, and know your landlord’s duties.
- You can seek help from municipal inspectors or the Landlord and Tenant Board if needed.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – applications, forms, and tenant guides
- Ontario Government – Renting in Ontario: Your Rights
- Local municipal property standards or public health units (search your city’s official website)
- Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario (ACTO) – legal support for renters
