Ontario Tenant Rights: Discrimination & Accessibility Explained

Facing discrimination or barriers to accessibility in your rental? Ontario tenants have strong legal protections to ensure equal treatment and access to housing. Whether you're concerned about a rental application being rejected, dealing with inaccessible features in your home, or want to know your rights under Ontario law, this guide breaks down the essentials in plain language.

What Is Discrimination in Ontario Rental Housing?

Discrimination occurs when a landlord or property manager treats a tenant or applicant unfairly based on certain personal characteristics. In Ontario, it’s illegal to discriminate against someone when renting a home, thanks to protections under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1][2].

• Landlords cannot refuse to rent or renew a lease based on race, gender, disability, family status, religion, or other protected grounds.
• Discriminatory practices are illegal before, during, or after a tenancy.
• Advertising rental units with discriminatory language is also a violation.

If you encounter issues such as being asked inappropriate questions about your background or denied for reasons unrelated to your suitability as a tenant, you have the right to take action.

Accessibility Rights for Ontario Tenants

Tenants with disabilities are protected by law. Landlords must make reasonable efforts—called accommodations—to ensure rental properties are accessible if it's possible and doesn't cause undue hardship.

• Examples include allowing service animals, installing ramps, or permitting modifications for mobility aids.
• Landlords can only refuse accommodation if it would be extremely costly or unsafe.

You can request accessibility accommodations at any time during your tenancy. Document your request and provide information about your needs, but you don’t need to share specific medical details unless necessary.

Examples of Discrimination and Lack of Accessibility

• A landlord refuses your application because you receive social assistance.
• You’re denied permission for grab bars or ramps for mobility needs.
• Service animals are not permitted, despite medical necessity.

Filing a Discrimination or Accessibility Complaint

Ontario tenants have several ways to address discrimination or failure to accommodate accessibility needs:

• Contact the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) to file a human rights complaint.
• Discuss issues directly with your landlord, preferably in writing. Keep copies of all communication.
• If discrimination leads to eviction, termination, or a dispute, you may also bring your case before the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario.

Before proceeding, collect all documentation about incidents, requests, and responses from your landlord. This will help support your application.

Key Official Forms and How to Use Them

• HRTO Form 1: Application to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario
  When to use: Submit when you want to make a formal human rights complaint about discrimination or lack of accommodation.
  How to use: Download HRTO Form 1, complete with your details, the facts of your case, and the outcome you’re seeking. File by mail, fax, or email to the tribunal.
• LTB Application Forms (e.g., T2: Application About Tenant Rights)
  When to use: If your landlord’s actions violate your rights as a tenant (including discriminatory actions).
  How to use: Use LTB Form T2, describe the issue, attach evidence, and submit it to the Landlord and Tenant Board.

This process can be detailed. If unsure, reach out to tenant advocacy groups or legal aid for help.

Your Rights, Responsibilities, and Getting Support

It’s important to understand both landlord and tenant roles. For example, tenants must still pay rent and follow rules while pursuing a human rights complaint. Similarly, landlords must treat all tenants equally and accommodate disabilities unless there is proven undue hardship. For a full picture, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Want to know more about Ontario housing laws? See Tenant Rights in Ontario for an overview of legal rights, government resources, and the latest updates.

Looking for accessible or pet-friendly rental options? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to find listings that fit your needs across the province.

FAQ: Ontario Tenant Rights – Discrimination & Accessibility

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of my disability?
   No. Landlords cannot legally refuse an applicant or tenant based on disability. They must also make reasonable accommodations.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t allow my service animal?
   Advise your landlord that service animals are protected by law. If issues persist, you may file a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario using Form 1.
3. Am I allowed to make accessibility modifications to my unit?
   Yes. You can request reasonable accessibility modifications. Landlords should accommodate unless doing so causes undue hardship.
4. What evidence do I need to file a discrimination complaint?
   Collect emails, messages, or notes from conversations, and any documents related to the discriminatory incident. This will strengthen your application.
5. Are there time limits for filing a human rights complaint in Ontario?
   Yes. Typically, you must file within one year of the incident. Delays may limit your ability to bring a claim.

How To: Take Action If You Experience Discrimination or Accessibility Barriers

1. How do I request accessibility accommodations from my landlord?
   Explain your needs in writing, specify the requested accommodation, and keep copies of all correspondence.
2. How do I file a human rights complaint as a tenant?
   Complete HRTO Form 1, attach supporting evidence, and submit it to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario.
3. What steps should I take before applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
   Attempt to resolve the issue with your landlord first. Document all interactions. If issues remain, complete the relevant LTB form and file it with your evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Ontario law prohibits discrimination and requires landlords to accommodate accessibility needs.
• Tenants can seek support through the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario or the Landlord and Tenant Board if their rights are violated.
• Document everything and file the correct forms within the designated time limits.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario: Tenancy disputes, eviction, rent, and complaints
• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario: Submit discrimination or accessibility complaints
• Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Information about rental laws and tenant support
• Ontario Tenants’ Rights (Advocacy group directory): Legal clinics and tenant committees

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1. [1] Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

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