As a tenant in Ontario, you have clear rights if something in your rental needs repair. This guide explains what landlords must provide, what you should do first, and how to document problems so you can get them fixed quickly. It covers routine maintenance, emergency repairs, realistic timelines, and when to escalate to the Landlord and Tenant Board for help. Practical steps, sample actions, and official resources are included so renters and tenants can act confidently while keeping communication constructive.
Rights and responsibilities for repairs in Ontario
Landlords must keep rental units in a fit state of repair and comply with health, safety and housing standards under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2]. If a repair affects habitability — for example lack of heat, serious plumbing failure, or uncontrolled mould — landlords are expected to respond promptly. If a landlord does not act, tenants can seek help from the Landlord and Tenant Board[1] or local authorities.
Common landlord duties
- Provide and maintain heating, plumbing, electrical and structural repairs.
- Keep the unit free from serious pests and health hazards.
- Ensure essential services like hot water and heat are available.
Tenant responsibilities
- Report problems promptly and provide reasonable access for repairs.
- Take reasonable care of the unit to avoid damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Keep records of repair requests, receipts for emergency fixes you paid for, and photos.
How to request a repair
Start by telling your landlord about the issue in writing, describing the problem, date, and any safety concerns. Keep a copy of every message. If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, give a clear follow-up with a deadline. For problems that are urgent or dangerous, make a phone call and follow up in writing. You can use the online resources available to guide what is considered an emergency and what qualifies for faster action. For guidance on non-urgent versus urgent repairs, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Useful documentation and timeline tips
- Keep dated photos and messages showing the problem and your requests for repair.
- Set a clear, reasonable deadline in your written request (for example: respond within 5 business days for a major plumbing leak).
- Call emergency services or building management immediately for immediate hazards (gas smell, flooding, fire risk).
When to escalate and official applications
If a landlord still fails to fix serious issues after you have documented and requested repairs, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order to have the work completed or to seek compensation. The Board and its forms explain the right application for each situation; choose the application that matches your problem and include copies of your records when you file[3]. You may be able to use the Boards online portal for faster processing.
FAQ
- How long should I wait for a landlord to make a repair?
- It depends on severity: emergencies need immediate action, major habitability problems should be addressed within days, and routine repairs within a reasonable time after notification.
- Can I arrange a repair myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Not automatically. In Ontario you generally must get the landlords permission first or apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to have the cost deducted; follow the Boards process and keep all receipts.
- What if a landlord enters my unit without proper notice?
- Tenants have rights to privacy. Except for emergencies, landlords must give notice before entry; you can raise this with the landlord or file with the Landlord and Tenant Board if entry rules are violated.
How-To
- Contact your landlord: describe the issue, state the date, and request a repair in writing.
- Document the problem: take photos, keep copies of messages, and log dates and times.
- If no response, send a formal written notice with a reasonable deadline and state you may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board.
- Apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if the issue isnt resolved; include evidence and the steps you already took.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain basic habitability and address urgent repairs quickly.
- Document every request and keep photos, messages and receipts to support your case.
- You can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board if repairs are not made.
Help and Support / Resources
- Call the Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario) for hearing and procedural information
- Find applications and forms on the Landlord and Tenant Board forms page
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Ontario)
