Ontario Tenant Guide: Discrimination & Accessibility Tips

Facing discrimination or accessibility barriers in your Ontario rental can be stressful. It's important to know your rights and understand how provincial laws protect you. This guide explains what counts as discrimination, how accessibility is enforced, and what steps you can take if your landlord isn't following the law. Whether you're seeking a fair housing experience or need to request accommodations for a disability, this article will help you navigate Ontario's tenant protections under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1]

What Counts as Discrimination in Ontario Rental Housing?

All tenants in Ontario are legally protected from discrimination based on the grounds listed in the Ontario Human Rights Code^[2]. Discrimination can include:

• Refusing to rent to you because of your race, religion, age, family status, disability, or similar protected characteristic
• Setting different rental terms, such as requiring a higher deposit or stricter rules
• Failing to respond to accommodation requests related to a disability

Examples include not permitting a service animal, refusing a ramp for wheelchair access, or denying an apartment to families with children.

Your Accessibility Rights as a Tenant

If you live with a disability, Ontario law requires landlords to provide "reasonable accommodation"—meaning they must make changes so you can enjoy your home on equal terms. This could involve:

• Installing accessibility ramps, grab bars, or door openers
• Allowing service animals, even in "no pets" buildings
• Adjusting parking arrangements for easier access

Landlords aren’t required to make changes that cause undue hardship, but the standard is high—they must prove why an accommodation is not possible. For details on broader tenant and landlord duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Ontario Laws Protect You?

• Ontario Human Rights Code: Prohibits discrimination in housing.
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Governs rental relationships, including accessibility requirements and maintenance obligations.^[1]

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the tribunal that resolves rental disputes in Ontario. Visit the LTB official site to learn more about how they help enforce tenant rights.^[3]

Forms and How to File a Complaint

If you experience discrimination or your landlord won’t accommodate your accessibility needs, you have two main options:

• Landlord and Tenant Board Applications: For accessibility issues or violations of maintenance/repair obligations, use Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance and Repair.
  Example: If your landlord refuses to install a grab bar or repair broken elevator service, submit the T6 form.
• Official Form T6 (Tenant Application about Maintenance and Repair). Attach evidence such as emails, photos, or letters you sent to your landlord.
• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario Application: For direct discrimination, use Form 1: Application if you believe your rights under the Human Rights Code have been violated.
  Example: If you are denied rental because of your family status or disability.

Steps to Address Discrimination or Accessibility Issues

1. Document the Problem: Keep records of conversations, written requests for accommodation, and any discriminatory comments.
2. Submit Your Request in Writing: Clearly outline your needs and provide reasonable documentation (if required).
3. Wait for a Response: Allow a reasonable time for your landlord to reply, usually up to 14 days unless urgent.
4. Apply to the LTB or Human Rights Tribunal if Unresolved: Use the appropriate forms, attach evidence, and attend your hearing if scheduled.

Tenants who are unsure if an issue counts as discrimination can check the Tenant Rights in Ontario page for further guidance.

Related Common Issues

Discrimination and accessibility requests often overlap with other rental concerns—such as maintenance, repairs, or interpersonal disputes. Learn more in the article Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Tip: You don't have to disclose your specific diagnosis to request an accessibility accommodation—just enough information to explain your needs.

For those looking for inclusive and accessible rental listings, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Ontario Discrimination & Accessibility Rights

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children or a disability?
   No. This is considered discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code and is not allowed.
2. What is a "reasonable accommodation" in Ontario rentals?
   It is a change or adjustment that allows a tenant with a disability to use and enjoy their home—like installing ramps, grab bars, or allowing service animals.
3. Who handles complaints about discrimination or accessibility?
   The Landlord and Tenant Board handles issues about repairs and maintenance, while the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario addresses direct discrimination complaints.^[3][4]
4. Are emotional support animals protected in rentals?
   Emotional support animals may be considered if they meet certain criteria. The law protects service animals under accessibility requirements.
5. Where can I learn all my rights as an Ontario tenant?
   Visit Tenant Rights in Ontario for a complete overview.

How To: Enforce Your Rights as an Ontario Tenant

1. How do I request an accessibility accommodation?
   Write to your landlord outlining your required accommodation, and provide simple documentation if necessary. Keep all communications for your records.
2. How do I file a T6 Application for lack of repairs affecting accessibility?
   Complete Form T6, attach your supporting documents, and send it to the LTB online or by mail.
3. How do I complain if I am denied because of disability or family status?
   Fill out the Human Rights Tribunal's Form 1: Application with a clear description and evidence. Submit it through their website or by mail.

Key Takeaways

• Ontario law protects tenants from discrimination and ensures accessibility accommodations in most rental units.
• Use official LTB or Human Rights Tribunal forms to file complaints if your landlord does not comply.
• Keep clear records and act promptly to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario – For rental disputes and tenant applications
• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario – For discrimination complaints
• Ontario Human Rights Commission – Contact
• Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) – Free legal info and resources
• Tenant Rights in Ontario

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Ontario Human Rights Code
3. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario
4. Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario

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