Many tenants face unfair treatment when looking for or living in rental housing, and race-based discrimination is illegal in Ontario. This article helps renters understand what race-based housing discrimination can look like, what rights tenants have under provincial law, and practical steps to document incidents, report problems, and seek remedies through official channels. It explains when to use the Landlord and Tenant Board or the Human Rights Tribunal, which forms to consider, and how to prepare evidence for hearings. The guidance is written for tenants and renters who need clear, step-by-step advice about protecting housing security and accessing help in Ontario.
What is race-based housing discrimination?
Race-based housing discrimination happens when someone is treated differently in housing because of race, colour, ancestry, ethnic origin or related grounds. In Ontario these protections are enforced through human rights law and tenancy processes; you can consider both the Human Rights Tribunal and the Landlord and Tenant Board when deciding where to bring a claim[1]. The primary province law on tenancy rules is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, which sets out tenant and landlord obligations[2].
Common signs to watch for
- Refusal to rent or selective refusals that reference race or national origin or otherwise feel illegal.
- Different rental terms, deposits, or higher rent applied to tenants of certain racial backgrounds.
- Steering applicants toward or away from particular units or neighbourhoods based on race or ethnicity.
- Intrusive questions about cultural background, religion, or immigration status that are not relevant to tenancy.
What you should do right away
If you suspect race-based discrimination, take immediate steps to protect your position as a tenant and preserve evidence. Keep copies of every message, note dates and times, and get witness contact details when possible. If the issue affects habitability or safety, report it in writing to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.
- Keep all documents, emails, text messages, photos, and screenshots that show the incident or the landlord’s conduct.
- Tell the landlord or property manager in writing about problems you want fixed and keep a copy.
- Collect witness statements and contact details from neighbours or anyone who saw or heard the incident.
- Consider filing a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal or an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board depending on the details of your case.
Filing complaints and official forms
There are two main paths for race-based housing complaints in Ontario. For tenancy-specific disputes (eviction, rent, repairs), the Landlord and Tenant Board handles many residential matters; review the LTB information and application process[1]. For discrimination under the Human Rights Code, you can apply to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The LTB also publishes official forms and instructions; review the forms page for the correct application to file with the board[3].
Common official forms and when tenants might use them:
- Application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (commonly referenced as Form L1 or the equivalent LTB application type) — used when a tenant files an application about a tenancy dispute such as eviction, rent or repairs; for example, a tenant who faces an unlawful eviction notice can file the appropriate LTB application to respond and request a hearing.
- Human Rights Tribunal application — used when the core issue is protected-ground discrimination (race, ethnic origin). A tenant who experienced race-based refusal should consider the HRTO application to seek remedies for discrimination.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse to rent to someone because of their race?
- No. Refusing to rent based on race or similar protected characteristics is prohibited under human rights law and may also affect tenancy matters.
- What evidence helps my complaint?
- Clear records: emails, texts, photos, dated notes, witness names, and any written notices. Evidence that shows a pattern of differential treatment is especially helpful.
- Which tribunal should I contact first?
- It depends on the problem: use the Landlord and Tenant Board for tenancy-specific disputes and the Human Rights Tribunal for discrimination claims; you can get advice from tenant clinics or community legal services about the best path.
How-To
- Document the incident thoroughly with dates, names, messages, photos, and witness contacts.
- Notify the landlord in writing about the issue and keep a copy of the message and any responses.
- Decide where to file: complete the correct LTB application form or the HRTO application and submit per the official instructions.
- Prepare for hearings by organizing evidence, making a timeline, and lining up witness statements or copies of correspondence.
Key Takeaways
- Race-based discrimination in housing is prohibited and tenants have routes for remedy in Ontario.
- Document everything and keep dated records to support your case.
- Use official forms and trusted channels like the Landlord and Tenant Board or the Human Rights Tribunal to file complaints.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (forms and hearings)
- Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (how to apply)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (official legislation)
