If your rental unit in Ontario becomes unsafe or unusable because of renovations, you have rights and options as a tenant. This guide explains what to expect from notices, whether you can be asked to temporarily vacate, what compensation or alternative accommodation you may be entitled to, and how to document issues for the Landlord and Tenant Board. It uses plain language so renters and tenants can understand timelines, communication steps, and when to seek help. If you have accessibility needs or a disability, these protections may affect how a landlord must provide reasonable accommodation during work.
Who decides if you must leave during renovations?
Landlords can carry out repairs and renovations, but they must respect your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1] and follow proper notice requirements. If the work makes the unit uninhabitable, the landlord should offer safe alternative accommodation or a rent reduction. If you and your landlord disagree, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a remedy.[2]
Typical tenant options and landlord obligations
- Notice: The landlord must give appropriate written notice about the timing and scope of renovations.
- Temporary accommodation: If the unit is unsafe, the landlord should arrange or pay for reasonable alternate housing.
- Compensation or rent abatement: Tenants may be entitled to reduced rent or reimbursement for reasonable extra costs.
- Written agreements: Get any offer for alternative housing or compensation in writing before you move.
- Documentation: Keep receipts, photos, and a log of disruptions and expenses.
When to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board
If your landlord refuses reasonable accommodation, alternative housing or fair compensation, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order resolving the dispute and for any compensation you seek.[2] The Board handles complaints about repairs, maintenance, and unlawful or poorly managed renovations.
Practical steps to protect yourself
- Contact your landlord immediately to request written details about the work and a plan for temporary accommodation.
- Document condition: take dated photos and keep receipts for any extra expenses like hotel stays or storage.
- Ask for a written agreement that explains who pays for alternate housing and how rent will be handled while you are away.
- Keep a repair log listing dates and what work was done; this helps if you later apply to the Board.
What if you have accessibility needs?
Tenants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodations during renovations, such as extra notice, specific moving assistance, or suitable temporary housing that meets accessibility needs. Discuss these needs early with your landlord and document any refusals so you can present them to the Landlord and Tenant Board if necessary.[2]
Using official forms and where to get them
The Landlord and Tenant Board provides application forms and instructions on its forms page. Use the Board's application forms when you seek a rent abatement, compensation, or an order about repairs and temporary accommodation. For practical use:
- Application to the Board (use the applicable form from the Board forms page): file this when you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord and want a formal decision.
- Evidence bundle: attach photos, receipts, written offers from the landlord and a timeline to support your claim.
FAQ
- Do I have to leave my unit if my landlord renovates?
- Not automatically. You only have to leave if the unit is unsafe or the landlord has a lawful notice and offers reasonable accommodation; otherwise you can refuse to vacate while protecting your rights.
- Who pays for temporary housing during renovations?
- If the work makes the unit uninhabitable, the landlord may be responsible for arranging or paying for reasonable temporary housing or providing a rent reduction for the period the unit is unavailable.
- How do I request compensation or a rent abatement?
- Start by asking your landlord in writing for compensation, keep documentation, and if you cannot agree, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board with your evidence.
How-To
- Contact your landlord in writing to request details about the renovation schedule and any offer for temporary accommodation.
- Document the condition with dated photos, a daily log of disruptions, and keep receipts for extra costs.
- Ask for a written agreement that specifies who pays for temporary housing and how rent will be handled while you are away.
- If you cannot reach agreement, gather evidence and file the appropriate application with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything: photos, receipts and written communications protect your position.
- Get any offer for temporary housing or compensation in writing before you move out.
- Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board if you and your landlord cannot agree.
Help and Support / Resources
- Landlord and Tenant Board - Tribunals Ontario
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- Renting in Ontario: Your rights and responsibilities
