If you’re a tenant in Ontario and need repairs in your rental unit, knowing the official process is essential to resolve issues quickly and protect your rights. This article explains your repair rights under Ontario law, how to formally request repairs using a sample repair letter, and what to do if your landlord does not respond. Guidance is tailored for Ontario tenants and updated for the current year.

Your Rights to Repairs in Ontario Rentals

Both landlords and tenants share responsibilities in keeping rental properties safe and livable. In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 guarantees every tenant the right to a home that is in good repair, meets health and safety standards, and is fit for habitation, regardless of the age or condition of the property.¹

• Landlords must repair and maintain the rental unit and common areas.
• Tenants are responsible for keeping their unit reasonably clean and reporting needed repairs promptly.

For major issues that affect health and safety—like broken heating in winter or leaking pipes—prompt action is especially important. Discover more about your Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Typical Repair Issues Tenants Report

• Heating or air conditioning not working
• Leaking plumbing or roof
• Pest infestations
• Broken appliances provided by the landlord
• Unsafe stairways, electrical hazards, or mould

Health and safety concerns should be reported urgently. To understand health and safety issues in more detail, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

How to Request Repairs: The Step-By-Step Process

Requesting repairs in writing creates a record and helps avoid misunderstandings. Follow this process:

• Notify your landlord (ideally in writing) as soon as you discover a problem.
• If possible, include photos or descriptions to clarify the issue.
• Keep a copy of all communications for your own records.

If your landlord does not respond or resolve the issue promptly, you may take further action through the official tribunal.

Sample Repair Request Letter for Ontario Tenants

Use this template to request repairs in your Ontario rental:

Subject: Request for Repairs – [Your Address]
Date: [Today’s Date]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],

I am writing to notify you of the following repair needed in my unit at [your address]:
[Describe the issue clearly – e.g., "The heating system has stopped working."]

This issue began on [date] and is affecting my comfort and/or safety. Please advise when the repairs will be made.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

When and How to Escalate: Using the Landlord and Tenant Board

If your landlord does not address reasonable repair requests in a timely way, you may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario. The LTB settles disputes and enforces repair requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act.²

Relevant Official Forms for Repairs

• Form T6: Tenant Application About Maintenance – Use this if your landlord does not carry out repairs after you have notified them. This form lets you ask the LTB to order the landlord to make repairs, reduce your rent, or compensate you.
  Download Form T6 from the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Example: If your landlord ignores requests to fix broken heating, you can complete Form T6, provide evidence (like messages and photos), and the Board may order repairs or a rent reduction.

Documentation Tips for Tenants

• Keep all correspondence with your landlord
• Take dated photos or videos of the problem
• Document how it impacts your use of the unit

Routine versus Emergency Repairs

Routine repairs refer to issues that don’t immediately threaten health or safety. Emergency repairs are urgent (like a burst pipe, no heat in winter, or exposed electrical wiring). For more on this distinction and urgent action, review Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Summary: Taking Action for Repairs

Most repair concerns are resolved quickly when reported clearly and promptly. If not, the LTB process protects tenants and holds landlords accountable under the law.

FAQ: Repair Requests for Ontario Tenants

1. Do I need to notify my landlord in writing about repairs?
   Yes, it’s best practice to request repairs in writing (email or letter) to create a record.
2. How long should I wait before applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board?
   If your landlord doesn’t respond within a reasonable time, usually a few days to a week (quicker for urgent repairs), consider applying to the Board.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
   No. Do not withhold rent for unresolved repairs—use the official process and Form T6 instead.
4. Will the Board reduce my rent if repairs are not done?
   In some cases, the Board may order a temporary rent reduction or compensation for affected tenants.
5. What if repairs are urgent and my landlord can’t be reached?
   If there’s an emergency and you cannot reach your landlord, contact appropriate emergency services and document your actions.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) of Ontario – Official forms, guides, and dispute resolution
• Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Tenant rights and maintenance information
• Local community legal clinics – Free advice and assistance for tenants
• Explore Canada's best rental listings platform for affordable homes for rent or to browse listings in your area
• Learn about Tenant Rights in Ontario for in-depth legal information

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1. See Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Government of Ontario)
2. See Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB)

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