Ontario tenants have the right to ask for reasonable housing accommodations if a disability or mental health condition means you need changes where you live. These rights are protected by law and ensure you are treated fairly by your landlord. This article explains how tenants in Ontario can request housing accommodations, what steps to take, and where to get help if you run into issues.

Your Right to Reasonable Accommodation in Ontario

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and the Ontario Human Rights Code, landlords must consider requests for accommodations related to disabilities or mental health conditions.^[1][2] This could include physical changes to your unit (like grab bars), permission to have a service animal, or flexibility with rent payment methods due to a medical condition. Accommodations must be reasonable and not cause "undue hardship" to the landlord.

Common Examples of Reasonable Accommodations

• Installing accessibility features (e.g., ramps, grab bars)
• Allowing a support or service animal, even in a "no pets" building
• Changes to parking arrangements for mobility needs
• Exceptions for noise or visitors related to a disability
• Adjustments to communication methods (written/verbal notices)

Each situation is unique. Landlords must review all requests individually and respond promptly.^[2]

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation: Step-by-Step

It’s important to approach your request clearly and in writing. Here’s what Ontario tenants should do if they need a housing accommodation:

• Identify Your Need: Determine what specific accommodation you require (e.g., installation of a grab bar, extra time to pay rent).
• Document Your Request: Send your landlord a written letter or email explaining what you need and why. If possible, include a note from a healthcare provider that simply confirms a disability exists (it does not have to include your diagnosis).
• Be Specific but Respectful: Clearly state your accommodation request and offer to discuss options. Keep copies of all communications.
• Ask for a Timeline: Politely request a prompt response (e.g., within two weeks) so your needs are addressed in a reasonable time.

Relevant Official Form: Ontario’s Human Rights Application (Form 1)

If your landlord refuses your request or does not respond, you may file an application with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. Use the HRTO Form 1 – Application to start the process (download the form here).

• When to use: After you’ve made a written request and your landlord doesn’t make the accommodation or respond within a reasonable time.
• How to use: Complete Form 1 by describing your situation, attach evidence (like your letter and any responses), and submit online, by mail, or in person. Full instructions are provided with the form.

The HRTO will review your case and, if successful, can order your landlord to provide the necessary accommodation.

Your Landlord’s Obligations

Landlords in Ontario have legal responsibilities under both the Residential Tenancies Act and the Human Rights Code. They must:

• Respond promptly and seriously to requests for accommodation
• Engage in meaningful dialogue—this is called the “duty to accommodate”
• Provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so causes undue hardship (such as cost or serious safety issues)

If you’re unsure about your landlord’s responsibilities, you may want to review the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What is 'Undue Hardship'?

If a landlord claims they cannot provide an accommodation, they must show that doing so would cause serious financial or safety problems. Minor inconveniences or extra paperwork for the landlord are not considered undue hardship.^[2]

Extra Tips to Protect Your Rights

• Always put requests and responses in writing
• Keep copies of letters, emails, and any doctor’s notes
• Follow up if you don’t get a response within two weeks
• Contact the Ontario Human Rights Commission or a local tenant support group if you feel your rights are being denied

Understanding what to do after moving in can also help prevent disagreements. See What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For a broader overview of Ontario laws and your protections, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Ready to look for a new home that fits your needs? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

FAQ: Housing Accommodations and Tenant Rights in Ontario

1. What is a reasonable accommodation in Ontario rental housing?
   A reasonable accommodation is a change to rules or premises to allow a tenant with a disability or mental health concern to use their home fully. Examples include allowing a service animal or installing accessibility features.
2. Can my landlord ask for medical details when I request an accommodation?
   No, your landlord cannot require your diagnosis or detailed medical records. They may only ask for documentation that confirms you have a disability requiring the requested accommodation.
3. Do I have to pay for modifications or accessibility upgrades?
   Usually, landlords cover costs for reasonable modifications unless it causes them undue hardship. In some cases, tenants and landlords may agree to share costs for very expensive or unique requests.
4. What can I do if my landlord ignores my request?
   File a written complaint and, if there's no response, apply to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario with HRTO Form 1.
5. Are rules different for mental health versus physical disabilities?
   No, all disabilities—mental or physical—are protected under Ontario’s laws. The duty to accommodate applies equally.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Ontario tenants have a legal right to reasonable housing accommodations for disabilities or mental health conditions.
• Make requests in writing and be specific; keep good records.
• Help is available if your landlord does not respond—contact the Human Rights Tribunal or tenant services for support.

Being informed and taking each step in writing helps ensure your rights are respected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) – File accommodation complaints and applications.
• Ontario Human Rights Code Guide – Understand protected grounds and obligations.
• Ontario Tenants Network – Advocacy, support, and legal information for renters.
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings – Search accessible and pet-friendly rentals.

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1. See: Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
2. See: Ontario Human Rights Code – Guide for Accommodation
3. See: Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario: Accommodation Complaints

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