Top 50 Questions About Maintenance & Repairs for Ontario Tenants

Maintenance & Repairs Ontario published June 26, 2025

Who is responsible for repairs in Ontario rentals?

Landlords must keep rental units in good repair and meet health, safety, and housing standards at all times.

What should I do if my landlord won’t fix something important?

Give your landlord written notice. If not fixed, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) using Form T6.

How quickly must a landlord respond to repair requests?

There is no set timeframe, but urgent repairs (like heat or water) must be addressed quickly for health and safety.

Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?

No. Always keep paying rent. Instead, file a complaint with the LTB if repairs aren’t completed.

What repairs is my landlord required to make?

Landlords must fix things that make the unit unsafe or violate health, safety, or housing codes and keep everything in good working order.

What repairs am I, as a tenant, responsible for?

You must keep your unit clean and repair any damage you or your guests cause, whether on purpose or by accident.

Can my landlord enter my unit to do repairs?

Yes, with 24 hours’ written notice stating the reason, date, and time and between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless it’s an emergency.

What counts as an emergency repair?

Emergencies include things like no heat, water leaks, broken water or electrical systems, or anything affecting health and safety.

What is “good repair” according to Ontario law?

All vital services and the unit must be in good condition, meet property standards, and function normally.

How do I request repairs from my landlord?

Give written notice explaining the problem and request a timeline for repairs. Keep a copy for your records.

What is Form T6?

Form T6 is an application to the Landlord and Tenant Board if your landlord has not done repairs. Find Form T6 here.

How do I use Form T6?

Fill out Form T6 after letting your landlord know about the repairs and giving them reasonable time. Submit the form to the LTB with supporting evidence.

Where do I file Form T6?

Submit Form T6 to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

How long does the repair process usually take?

Repairs should be made within a reasonable time, depending on urgency. Emergencies must be addressed right away.

Can I arrange for repairs myself and deduct the cost from rent?

Usually no; this is not allowed unless authorized by the LTB. Always seek permission or an order first.

Can my landlord ask me to pay for general wear and tear?

No. Tenants are not responsible for wear and tear—only for damages they or their guests cause.

What if repairs aren’t done properly?

Inform your landlord in writing and keep records. If not fixed, consider filing a T6 application.

Are there minimum property standards for rentals?

Yes, Ontario’s property standards require landlords to meet local building, health, and safety codes.

Is my landlord required to provide pest control?

Yes, landlords must fix pest infestations such as bedbugs or cockroaches and maintain a pest-free unit.

What should I do about mold or mildew?

Report it to your landlord right away. If not fixed, file a T6 application with the LTB.

Can my landlord turn off heat, hydro, or water for repairs?

These services should not be cut off unless temporary, necessary for repairs, and with notice.

What if my landlord refuses to restore a vital service?

Contact your local Rental Housing Enforcement Unit or file a T6 application with the LTB.

Who enforces maintenance laws in Ontario?

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) handles disputes, while municipalities enforce property standards.

Can the LTB order my landlord to do repairs?

Yes. The LTB can order repairs, compensation, or rent reductions for unaddressed repairs.

Do I need evidence for my repair complaint?

Yes. Take dated photos, keep written requests, and gather witnesses if possible.

How do I contact the Landlord and Tenant Board?

Visit LTB’s official website for contact information and forms.

What rights do I have during major renovations?

You have the right to reasonable enjoyment, proper notice, and may be entitled to compensation if required to leave temporarily.

Can repairs be done during winter?

Yes. Landlords must make repairs year-round, especially for essential services like heat.

Should I allow access for repairs?

Yes, with proper notice. You don’t have to reschedule for landlord convenience but must not unreasonably prevent access.

Can I be evicted for asking about repairs?

No. It is illegal for a landlord to evict or threaten eviction for requesting repairs.

Are smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors covered by maintenance law?

Yes, landlords must provide and maintain these safety devices.

Can my landlord increase rent to cover repair costs?

Landlords may apply for above-guideline rent increases if major repairs are made, but they must follow LTB rules and give proper notice.

What if my appliances (fridge, stove) break down?

If appliances are part of your lease, the landlord must repair or replace them.

Does my landlord need to fix common areas?

Yes, landlords must also maintain and repair common areas like hallways and laundry rooms.

Is the landlord responsible for exterior repairs (roof, windows)?

Yes, the landlord is responsible for the structure and exterior, including roofs and windows.

What happens if repairs are delayed during a landlord-tenant dispute?

Landlords must still do repairs even if there’s an ongoing dispute or unpaid rent.

Do Ontario’s maintenance laws cover mobile homes?

Yes, mobile home landlords must meet the same maintenance and repair obligations.

Can I ask for temporary accommodation during repairs?

If repairs make your unit unlivable, you may request alternate accommodation or rent reduction.

Is there a deadline for filing a maintenance complaint?

File as soon as possible. There’s no strict deadline, but acting quickly preserves your rights and evidence.

Can my landlord refuse to repair due to age of the unit?

No. Landlords must maintain all units regardless of age.

What maintenance standards apply to condos?

Landlords who rent out condos must follow the same maintenance and repair laws as other rentals.

What if repairs are needed after flooding or fire?

Landlords must quickly repair any damage from disasters so the unit is safe and livable.

If I caused the damage, who fixes it?

You are responsible for repairing or paying for repairs of any damage you cause.

Can pets affect my maintenance rights?

No. Landlords still must do repairs, but you must fix any pet-caused damage.

How does the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protect me?

It makes landlords responsible for keeping the unit in good repair and gives you a way to seek help if they don’t.

Can I get a rent reduction if repairs aren't done?

The LTB can order a rent reduction if repairs are not completed or you lost service or facility.

Are there penalties for landlords who ignore repairs?

The LTB may order landlords to pay tenants money, reduce rent, or fix issues by a deadline.

Can my landlord enter my unit without notice to do emergency repairs?

Yes, in emergencies only—otherwise, 24 hours’ written notice is required.

Does a landlord have to repaint or replace flooring?

Not by law, unless paint or flooring is unsafe or violates property standards.

If my landlord refuses to provide hot water or heat, what should I do?

Report to your municipality or contact the Rental Housing Enforcement Unit as well as filing a T6 with the LTB.

Where can I find Ontario’s maintenance laws?

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 outlines maintenance standards.

Top 50 Questions About Maintenance & Repairs for Ontario Tenants

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Bob Jones

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