Feeling safe in your rental is essential. In Ontario, many tenants in apartment complexes or multi-unit buildings rely on secure building doors and intercom systems to protect themselves and their visitors. This article explains your legal rights to building security in Ontario, what landlords are required to provide, and how to address problems with entry systems under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Understanding Building Security Requirements in Ontario
Most Ontario tenants living in apartment buildings or multi-unit rentals are entitled to reasonable security arrangements at the main entrances. Landlords must take steps to keep common areas, such as lobbies and entryways, safe—this often means a functioning main entrance lock and, in many cases, an intercom or buzzer system for visitor access.
- Building security: Landlords are responsible for providing proper locks on all main doors used for tenant entry.
- Intercom systems: If a building has an intercom or buzzer system, it must be kept in good working order and promptly repaired when needed.
- Broken doors or intercoms: Tenants should report any issues as soon as they arise so repairs can be made.
These requirements stem from the duty under Ontario’s housing laws to keep rental properties in a state of good repair and fit for habitation.
Your Right to Safety and Security
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and supporting maintenance standards set by municipalities require landlords to maintain all vital building security features. That includes:
- Entrance door locks
- Video or audio entry systems
- Secure mailboxes and common area doors
If a landlord fails to maintain these, your health and safety may be at risk. Learn more about your broader safety rights in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Reporting and Resolving Security Issues
Prompt action can help restore your security and set a record. If you notice a broken entrance, non-working intercom, or other security risk:
- Document the issue (notes, photos, dates, and times)
- Notify your landlord in writing, describing the problem and requesting repairs
- Keep a copy of your request
Most repairs are completed quickly. However, if the landlord does not fix the problem in a reasonable time, Ontario offers clear next steps for tenants.
Filing a Maintenance Application
You can seek help from the province’s official tribunal, the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), if repairs are not made. The main form used is:
- Form T6: Tenant Application About Maintenance
Use this form to ask the LTB to order repairs to building access or intercom systems if your landlord will not act. For example, if your building's front door lock remains broken despite requests, complete the T6 form with your supporting evidence.
Download and instructions
At your hearing, you can request the LTB order repairs, reduce your rent, or allow you to withhold part of your rent until security is restored.
What Standards Apply?
Ontario municipalities may also enforce additional property standards bylaws for building security and locks. These can further support your case when seeking repairs.
Moving In? Check Building Security
If you are just signing a lease, always check that main building doors, intercoms, and security features are working. See Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for more on what to look out for at move-in.
Can Rent Be Reduced for Security Failures?
Ontario tenants may be eligible for a rent abatement if your landlord fails to provide required security, especially if it impacts your ability to live safely. This is at the discretion of the LTB, which considers the severity and duration of the issue.
Summary: Know Your Security Rights
Building security is not optional—it’s part of your legal right to a safe home. Understanding and using Ontario’s systems can help you protect yourself if issues with access or intercoms arise.
For further details about renting in your province, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario. You can also find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare your options and discover secure buildings nationwide.
- Are landlords in Ontario required to provide an intercom system?
Landlords must keep all existing security features in working order. If the building already has an intercom system, it must be repaired and maintained, but Ontario law does not require installation where none previously existed unless municipal property standards demand it. - What should I do if the main door lock or intercom system is broken?
Notify your landlord in writing and keep a record. If repairs are not made within a reasonable time, use the T6 form to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order to repair. - Can I withhold rent because of poor building security?
Withholding rent is risky without the Board’s approval. Instead, file a T6 application. The Board can authorize a rent reduction or abatement if warranted. - Who enforces building security standards in Ontario?
The Landlord and Tenant Board deals with most disputes. Municipal bylaw offices may also handle breaches of local property standards. - What evidence helps my case about security issues?
Collect copies of written complaints, photos, videos, and witness statements showing the broken system and how it has affected your safety or access.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario): Forms, applications, and dispute resolution.
- Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Information on tenant and landlord legal rights.
- CLEO: Security in Your Building: Plain language guides and support.
- For local complaints, contact your city bylaw or property standards office.
