Just moved into your Ontario rental? Maintenance and repairs are among the most important issues new tenants face. Knowing what repairs landlords must handle, what falls to you, and what to do when something breaks will help ensure your home stays safe and comfortable. This guide will walk you through key rules, common scenarios, and actions you can take if repair issues arise in your Ontario rental.
Understanding Repair and Maintenance Responsibilities in Ontario
Both tenants and landlords have clear responsibilities under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. In general:
- Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental unit and property in good repair. This includes plumbing, heating, appliances provided in the lease, and ensuring the place meets health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards.
- Tenants must keep their home reasonably clean and repair any damage they cause beyond normal wear and tear.
Examples of What Landlords Must Repair
- Broken heating systems during winter
- Leaking roofs or windows
- Faulty plumbing, electrical, or appliances supplied with your lease
- Maintaining common areas, such as hallways or laundry rooms
- Addressing pest infestations affecting your health or comfort
Learn more about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for details on shared duties.
Notifying Your Landlord: Making a Maintenance Request
If something needs repair, tell your landlord as soon as possible. It’s best to do this in writing—an email or letter is ideal. Include:
- What’s broken or needs fixing
- How it affects you or your safety
- The date you are reporting it
- Your contact information
Keep a copy of the notice for your records. Most issues must be fixed in a reasonable time, but emergencies (like no heat in winter or burst pipes) should be addressed much faster.
Emergency vs. Routine Repairs
Some repairs require urgent attention. Ontario’s rules distinguish between emergencies (issues threatening safety or causing major damage) and routine maintenance. Examples:
- Emergency repairs: No heat in winter; major water leaks; electrical hazards
- Routine repairs: Broken appliance, clogged drain (not caused by tenant), peeling paint
For more details, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
If your landlord does not fix the problem, you may have the right to take the next step with the official tribunal.
The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
Ontario tenants have strong protections. If your landlord refuses to make required repairs, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for help. The LTB can order the landlord to make repairs or compensate you in some cases.
Key Official Forms for Maintenance & Repairs
- Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance
Use this if your landlord isn't repairing or maintaining your unit as required by law.- When to use: If notified in writing and repairs are not addressed within a reasonable time.
- Where to get it: LTB Official Tenant Forms
- Form N5: Notice to End your Tenancy for Interfering with Others, Damage or Overcrowding
Landlords may serve this if a tenant is causing damage (not normal wear/tear).- Why it matters: Tenants should be aware this notice could be used if you damage the property.
- Where to get it: Download Form N5 (PDF)
Complete these forms clearly and honestly. The LTB website above has instructions for each form, and you can also visit in person for assistance.
What If Repairs Affect Your Health or Safety?
Repairs that endanger your health or safety—such as mould, broken locks, or pest infestations—must be addressed promptly. For more on these concerns, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. You may also contact your local municipal bylaw or public health unit if conditions are unsafe.
Preparing for a Maintenance Inspection
Your landlord may need to enter for repairs or inspections. They must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice (except for emergencies) and state the reason, date, and time (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.).
Before a visit:
- Secure valuables and pets
- Clean the area to be repaired
- Make a list of any other issues you spot
What Happens if Repairs Aren't Made?
If your landlord ignores repeated requests:
- Keep copies of all requests and replies
- Take dated photos or videos of the needed repairs
- Contact your local property standards office or bylaw enforcement if health and safety are affected
- File Form T6 with the LTB
Where Can I Learn More?
- Review Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full summary of your rights
- Explore Renting in Ontario: Your Rights for government resources
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for repairs in my Ontario rental?
Landlords must fix anything related to safety, structure, heating, appliances included in the lease, and major repairs. Tenants only pay for repairs if they cause the damage through negligence. - What should I do if my landlord refuses to fix something?
Document your requests, follow up, and if nothing is fixed, submit Form T6 to the Landlord and Tenant Board. - How soon must an emergency repair be fixed?
Emergencies, like loss of heat or severe leaks, must be addressed as soon as possible. For health or safety issues, act immediately and contact municipal officials if needed. - Can a landlord enter my unit to make repairs?
Yes, but they must give at least 24 hours’ written notice unless there’s an emergency.
How To: Submitting a Maintenance Complaint
- How do I request a repair from my landlord?
Submit a written request detailing what needs fixing, keep records, and follow up if not addressed. - How can I file a maintenance complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board?
Fill out Form T6, attach evidence and details, then submit via the LTB’s website, mail, or in person. Be sure to follow all form instructions. - What steps should I take if repairs aren’t done and affect my safety?
In addition to notifying your landlord, contact municipal authorities about safety violations and submit a T6 application to the LTB.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain your rental home and make timely repairs.
- Always report maintenance issues in writing and keep records.
- Use official forms and, if needed, the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve disputes.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – Applications, decisions, forms, and guidance on maintenance disputes.
- Ontario Government Tenant Resources – Rights, responsibilities, and more.
- Your municipal government property standards or bylaw office – To report urgent safety or property condition issues.
- Tenant Rights in Ontario – Detailed rental protections explained.
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Governs tenant rights and maintenance obligations in Ontario.
