Sharing a house while studying can save money, but it raises questions about who pays for repairs, how deposits work, and what happens if a roommate moves out or the landlord seeks an eviction. This guide explains Ontario tenant rights in plain language, including basic obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act, how to request repairs, what official forms and timelines matter, and when to contact the Landlord and Tenant Board. You’ll find practical steps for documenting problems, protecting your deposit, and resolving disputes with roommates or landlords. Where to find official forms and how to access local help are included so student renters can act quickly and confidently.
Rights and responsibilities in shared housing
In Ontario the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets the basic rules for most rental units and the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles disputes.[1][2] Whether you rent a room in a house or share an apartment, you still have rights to reasonable repairs, privacy, and freedom from illegal harassment or eviction. Roommates and co-signers can complicate responsibility for rent and damage; read your rental agreement carefully and get written roommate agreements to avoid surprises.
Deposits, rent and roommates
In Ontario landlords may only collect a last month's rent deposit (not a separate security deposit). Make a written record of the amount and purpose when you pay. If a roommate moves out and leaves unpaid rent, the landlord can pursue anyone on the lease for arrears; a written roommate agreement can clarify how roommates share rent and utilities.
- Get any last-month rent agreement in writing and keep receipts.
- Take dated photos of your room and common areas when you move in and before you move out.
- Agree in writing who pays utilities, internet and shared supplies to avoid disputes.
Repairs, health and safety
Tenants are entitled to a safe, habitable unit. Report needed repairs in writing to the landlord and keep a copy. If urgent problems (no heat, major leaks, dangerous mould) aren’t fixed, you can escalate the issue to municipal building or health authorities and the LTB may allow tenants to seek remedies.[3]
When you report problems, include dates, photos, and any communication logs; those records are often decisive if a dispute goes to the LTB.
- Send repair requests in writing and keep a copy (email or text count as records).
- Follow up on emergency repairs and ask for timelines if the landlord does not respond.
- Keep photos and receipts for any temporary fixes you pay for yourself.
Ending a tenancy and evictions
If a landlord gives a notice to end a tenancy, read it carefully to confirm the reason and the date. Notices and applications follow specific forms and timelines; missing a deadline can affect your rights. If you receive an eviction notice for unpaid rent or other reasons, you can respond to the landlord and, if needed, file with the LTB for a hearing to present your evidence.[1]
- Read any notice immediately and check what deadline it sets for you to respond.
- Talk to your landlord about options (payment plans, repairs, or mediation) before a hearing.
- Prepare evidence—photos, receipts, messages—if a hearing is scheduled.
Documentation and forms
Official forms and the correct evidence matter. Common documents tenants will see include landlord-issued notices (for non-payment or other reasons) and LTB application forms used when a dispute proceeds to the tribunal. Access forms and instructions on the Landlord and Tenant Board website and check the RTA for timelines before acting.[1][2][3]
Practical examples:
- If a landlord claims unpaid rent and serves a formal notice, keep the notice and any rent receipts to show payment dates.
- If the landlord fails to repair unsafe wiring, photograph the issue, send a written request for repair, and reference the RTA if you need to file with the LTB.
Finding and moving into shared housing
When searching for a room, verify who is on the lease and whether utilities are included. Compare listings, visit in person, and ask about house rules and responsibilities. For broader rental searches you can also use listing services to compare options quickly; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme is one such platform that shows many city listings and map views.
FAQ
- Can my landlord increase the rent during the lease?
- No. A landlord cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless the lease itself permits it; otherwise increases must follow provincial rules and proper notice periods.
- What if a roommate causes damage?
- If you are jointly on a lease, the landlord can seek payment from any tenant named on the agreement. Internally, you should resolve cost-sharing with your roommates or rely on a written roommate agreement to pursue a claim against the responsible person.
- How do I request repairs and what if the landlord won’t act?
- Make a written repair request and keep records. If urgent health or safety repairs are ignored, contact municipal authorities and consider filing an application to the LTB for remedy or rent abatement.
How-To
- Gather documents and evidence: photos, receipts, written requests and the lease agreement.
- Contact your landlord in writing to explain the issue and request a specific resolution and timeline.
- If the landlord does not act, file the correct LTB form and include your evidence and a clear statement of desired remedy.
- Attend the hearing, present your documentation calmly, and ask for written orders so you have an enforceable outcome.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (e-Laws)
- LTB forms and guides
