Surveillance Cameras & Tenant Privacy Laws in Ontario

Surveillance cameras have become increasingly common in Ontario rental properties. As a tenant, it's important to understand your privacy rights and how Ontario law regulates cameras in apartment buildings, common areas, and private rental units. This guide explains the rules and steps to take if you feel your privacy has been breached, ensuring you’re confident about your rights under Ontario law.

Ontario Laws: Tenant Privacy and Security Cameras

In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 outlines both landlord and tenant rights related to rental housing¹. While security can be important for all residents, tenants are entitled to reasonable privacy—even when cameras are installed.

Where Can Landlords Install Cameras?

Ontario landlords may install surveillance cameras in common areas such as building entrances, hallways, laundry rooms, and parking lots for security reasons. However, landlords cannot use cameras to monitor inside tenants’ private rental units. Cameras must not capture footage of places where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy (such as bathrooms or inside apartments).

• Common area cameras: Generally allowed for building security, but audio recording is rarely justified.
• Inside units: Strictly prohibited unless the tenant consents in advance and can withdraw consent at any time.

Notice and Disclosure Requirements

Landlords must post signs or notify tenants if cameras are installed in common areas. Secret or hidden cameras—even in hallways—are against privacy law and the guidelines of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario.

Tenant Privacy Rights & Protection

Tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act and the legal concept of reasonable enjoyment of your home. Unlawful surveillance can be interpreted as a breach of your right to privacy and can be grounds for a complaint or application to the landlord and tenant tribunal.

For a more complete picture of your rights, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Can a Landlord Use Cameras for Eviction?

In Ontario, evidence from cameras is only admissible in narrow situations—typically when it concerns activities in common spaces, not within your unit. Cameras cannot lawfully be used to monitor or harass tenants as a means to pressure them into leaving or construct an eviction case without just cause.

Relevant Tribunal and Where to File a Complaint

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles complaints about rental housing issues—this includes privacy violations connected to surveillance².

• To file a complaint regarding surveillance or privacy, tenants typically use the LTB’s Form T2: "Application about Tenant Rights".
• When to use: If your landlord installs a camera inside your unit or uses surveillance to harass, intimidate, or interfere with your enjoyment.
• How to use: Complete Form T2 – Application about Tenant Rights and file it with the LTB. You can do this online, by mail, or in-person.
• Official source: LTB Tenant Forms Page

For more on your obligations and those of your landlord when it comes to privacy, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Practical Steps: What to Do if Your Privacy Is Violated

• Document the camera location and how it violates your privacy (photos, written details)
• Write to your landlord formally, requesting removal or deactivation of the camera
• Keep copies of all correspondence
• If unresolved, complete Form T2 and submit it to the LTB

Quick summary: If you discover unlawful surveillance—act promptly and maintain clear records. The tribunal can order removal or award compensation if your rights are found to have been violated.

Surveillance, Safety, and Reasonable Enjoyment

Balancing safety and privacy is an ongoing issue in multi-unit buildings. Cameras in entrances or garages can deter crime, but no tenant should feel monitored within their private living space. If you feel cameras are interfering with your ability to live comfortably, you are entitled to take action—especially if you believe your safety or mental well-being is affected.

For more information on safety, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. When looking for safer homes with privacy in mind, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

1. Can my landlord put up security cameras in the hallway or outside the building?
   Cameras are allowed in common areas (like hallways and entrances) for general security, but tenants must be notified, and areas where privacy is expected (like bathrooms) cannot be recorded.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to record audio in the building?
   Audio recording is only permitted in rare cases and is generally considered an invasion of privacy. Video-only, with clear notice, is the standard in most Ontario rental buildings.
3. What should I do if I find a camera inside my unit?
   Document its location, contact your landlord in writing to demand removal, and if necessary, submit a Form T2 application to the LTB to protect your rights.
4. Can tenants put up their own cameras?
   You can install cameras inside your own rented space as long as it doesn't violate others’ privacy, but always check your lease for restrictions.
5. Where can I learn more about my privacy rights as a tenant in Ontario?
   Check the Tenant Rights in Ontario page for a full overview, and visit the Landlord and Tenant Board’s official resources for legal updates.

Key Takeaways: Tenant Rights and Camera Rules

• Landlords may use cameras in common spaces for security, but never inside your private rental unit without consent.
• You have a right to privacy and can challenge unlawful surveillance by filing with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
• If your privacy is breached, document everything, communicate in writing, and use official forms to assert your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Ontario: For submitting applications and forms
• Ontario Government: Your Rights as a Tenant
• Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario: Privacy-specific complaints or guidance
• For a complete list of tenant protections and legal info, see Tenant Rights in Ontario.

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1. See Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Ontario Government
2. Landlord and Tenant Board: Tribunals Ontario – LTB Home

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