Understanding your rights as a renter is essential—especially if you are living with a mental-health condition. In Ontario, tenants are protected from discrimination based on mental health, and can request reasonable accommodations if needed. This guide provides clear steps and resources to help you advocate for your needs, drawing on provincial legislation and official government supports.

Your Mental-Health Rights as a Tenant in Ontario

Under Ontario law, tenants cannot be discriminated against based on mental health or disability. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1] and the Ontario Human Rights Code^[2] both protect tenants' rights to fair treatment and safe accommodation. This means that landlords must treat tenants with mental-health conditions or disabilities the same as any other tenant—and make reasonable changes so you can fully enjoy your rental housing.

What is a "Reasonable Accommodation"?

A reasonable accommodation is a change in building rules, services, or physical features that helps tenants with a mental-health disability use and enjoy their rental home. Examples can include allowing a support animal, changing the method of communication about repairs, or allowing extra time to pay rent after hospitalization.

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations

• Flexibility with late rent when a mental-health crisis occurs
• Permitting a support dog even if pets aren’t allowed (with documentation)
• Changes to noise or other policies for therapy or coping practices
• Offering written rather than verbal communications

Landlords cannot refuse a request for accommodation without a valid reason—such as if it would cause them “undue hardship” (serious financial or health/safety risk).

How to Request a Mental-Health Accommodation in Your Rental

If you need a change or support with your tenancy due to mental health, you have the right to ask your landlord. You do not need to disclose your full diagnosis, only that you require an accommodation due to a disability under the Human Rights Code.

• Make your request in writing. Clearly explain the accommodation needed and how it relates to your health.
• Attach any supporting documents, such as a note from a doctor or social worker.
• Stay open and cooperative. Landlords have the right to ask for verification that the need is disability-related, but cannot ask for private medical details.

If the landlord refuses without a valid reason, you can file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) or the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• LTB Form T2 – Application about Tenant Rights:
  Landlord and Tenant Board Form T2
  Use this if your landlord refuses needed accommodations or discriminates against you.
  • When to use: If your landlord has denied an accommodation or treated you unfairly due to mental health.
  • How to use: Complete the form, explain what happened, attach any evidence (including your original request), and submit it online or to the LTB. Keep copies for your records.
• HRTO Application (Form 1) – Human Rights Complaint:
  Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario Application Form 1
  Use this form if you feel your rights were violated under the Human Rights Code.
  • When to use: For discrimination or harassment by your landlord or other tenants related to your mental health.
  • How to use: Fill out Form 1 with a clear, factual account. File it online or send it by mail to the HRTO. Respond quickly to any requests for more information.

Your Rights After Making a Request

Once you formally request an accommodation, your landlord must respond in good faith. They may discuss possible adjustments with you. If your landlord tries to evict you because you made a request or disclosed your mental health, this could be seen as discrimination under the Human Rights Code.

You can learn more about the general Tenant Rights in Ontario for a full overview of your protections as a renter.

Health, Safety, and Enjoyment of Your Rental

Your landlord has a legal obligation to provide a safe and well-maintained home. If your mental health is affected by poor housing conditions—such as mold, pests, or lack of repairs—you can ask your landlord to fix the issues. If problems aren’t addressed, see our guide: Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

For help finding supportive or accessible homes, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Ontario Tenants and Mental Health Accommodations

1. Can my landlord ask for my medical records when I request an accommodation?
   No, your landlord cannot ask for detailed medical records. They can only request enough information to understand that your need is disability-related and what accommodation is required.
   
2. What if my landlord refuses my accommodation request?
   You should first try resolving the issue by communicating again in writing. If there is still no agreement, you have the right to file a T2 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or make a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal.
   
3. Can I be evicted because I asked for a mental-health accommodation?
   No, landlords cannot evict you for requesting an accommodation due to mental health; this would be discrimination and is prohibited by law.
   
4. What should I do if my mental health suffers due to poor rental conditions?
   Notify your landlord in writing and request repairs. If they don't respond, you may file a T2 application or seek further advice. For health and safety guidance, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
   

Key Takeaways for Ontario Tenants

• You have strong protections under the Residential Tenancies Act and Human Rights Code.
• Landlords must provide reasonable accommodation for mental-health needs when asked.
• Multiple official avenues exist if your rights are not respected—keep written records.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario (LTB) – Apply for tenant rights, review forms, and find help with disputes.
• Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) – File discrimination complaints and access information about the Human Rights Code.
• Ontario Government: Renting – Your Rights – Full overview of rental laws, protections, and official forms.
• For legal aid or free tenant support, contact your local Community Legal Clinic.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, Government of Ontario
2. Ontario Human Rights Code, Ontario Human Rights Commission

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