Tenant Rights for Repairs and Maintenance in Ontario

Renters in Ontario often face questions about who is responsible for repairs, how quickly fixes must happen, and what steps to take if a landlord does not act. This guide explains tenant rights and landlord obligations under Ontario law in clear, practical terms. You will learn how to report maintenance issues, document problems, use official forms, and when to contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or local enforcement for urgent habitability concerns. The advice focuses on everyday situations—broken heating, plumbing failures, pest infestations, and routine upkeep—so you can protect your health and living conditions while following legal processes. We'll also show examples of timelines and sample wording for requests. If you need forms or tribunal links, they are included below.

Who is Responsible for Repairs in Ontario?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 a landlord must maintain the rental unit and the property in a good state of repair and fit for habitation; tenants also have responsibilities to avoid damage and keep the unit reasonably clean. For dispute resolution or applications to enforce repair obligations, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance and filing information^[1] and consult the Act for the legal standards that apply in Ontario^[2].

Typical landlord responsibilities

• Keep the unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation.
• Ensure heating and hot water work reliably.
• Maintain plumbing, electrical and building systems.
• Address health and safety code violations reported by tenants.

Tenant responsibilities

• Keep the unit reasonably clean and repair damage you or your guests caused.
• Allow reasonable access for repairs after proper notice.

How to Report a Problem and Document It

Start by telling your landlord about the problem as soon as you notice it, and follow up in writing so there is a record. Include what is broken, when you discovered it, and the impact on habitability. If possible, attach dated photos or short video clips to show the issue and its severity. If you later need to file with the Landlord and Tenant Board or ask municipal enforcement to inspect, this documentation will be essential^[3].

• Send a clear written request with photos, dates and what you want fixed.
• Give a reasonable deadline for routine repairs (for example, 7–14 days depending on severity).
• Call or message your landlord for urgent issues, then follow up with a written record.

When a Repair Is an Emergency

Emergencies include no heat in winter, major water leaks, or safety hazards like exposed wiring or gas smells. In an emergency, take immediate steps to protect people and property, inform the landlord right away, and call emergency services if needed. If a landlord fails to address an emergency promptly, you may have options such as arranging emergency repairs and seeking reimbursement, or filing an urgent application with the Landlord and Tenant Board; consult the Board for the correct process and any required forms^[1].

Related Guides

For more detail on specific repair topics, see the official routine and emergency guides below and these practical resources:

• Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
• Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

FAQ

How long does my landlord have to make a repair?

There is no single statutory timeline for all repairs; response time depends on urgency. For routine issues, give a reasonable deadline in writing; for emergencies, expect immediate action. If repairs are not made within a reasonable time, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board or contact municipal enforcement.

Can I withhold rent until a repair is done?

No. Withholding rent is risky and generally not allowed; instead, document the issue, send a written request, and consider filing an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or arranging repairs and requesting reimbursement only after seeking legal advice.

What if the landlord enters without notice to do repairs?

Landlords must give proper notice before entering except in emergencies. If entry rules are breached, document the incident and raise the matter with the landlord or the Landlord and Tenant Board.

How-To

1. Send a dated written repair request with photos, a clear description and your contact details.
2. Set a reasonable deadline for a response or repair depending on urgency (for example, 24–48 hours for emergencies, 7–14 days for routine items).
3. Allow reasonable access for inspections or repairs after the landlord gives proper notice.
4. If the landlord does not act, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board explaining the issue and attaching your documentation.
5. Keep copies of all communications, receipts and outcomes until the issue is resolved and any dispute is closed.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (official text)
• Landlord and Tenant Board forms and filing information

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1. [1] Landlord and Tenant Board
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
3. [3] Landlord and Tenant Board forms