Top 50 Questions: Safety & Security Rights for Ontario Tenants

Safety & Security Ontario published June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
What are my safety and security rights as a tenant in Ontario?
You have the right to a safe, secure rental unit, including proper locks and repairs, under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Can my landlord enter my unit without my permission?
No, except in emergencies. Otherwise, landlords must give you 24 hours' written notice.
Are landlords required to change locks between tenants?
Yes. Upon request, landlords must change or rekey the locks at the tenant’s expense, unless otherwise agreed.
Can I change the lock myself?
No, unless you have your landlord’s permission. Landlords must have keys for emergencies.
What should I do if my landlord refuses essential repairs affecting safety?
You can file LTB Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
Is my landlord allowed to enter for showings or repairs?
Yes, with 24 hours’ written notice and only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
What can I do if I feel unsafe due to another tenant or neighbour?
Report concerns to your landlord and, if needed, contact local police for immediate threats.
Who is responsible for broken doors, windows, or locks?
The landlord must repair or replace broken doors, windows, or locks unless you caused the damage.
Are smoke detectors required in rental units?
Yes, landlords must provide working smoke alarms in all residential units.
What should I do if my unit lacks a working smoke or carbon monoxide alarm?
Notify your landlord promptly. If not fixed, contact municipal fire services or file an LTB maintenance application (Form T6).
How do I report unsafe conditions like mold, pests, or structural issues?
Inform your landlord in writing. If unresolved, contact city by-law or file a Form T6 at the LTB.
If I feel harassed or unsafe due to my landlord, what should I do?
Document incidents and consider contacting the police or the LTB for harassment complaints.
Can my landlord install video cameras in common areas?
Yes, but not inside your unit or in a way that invades tenants’ privacy.
Is the landlord responsible for anti-bullying or noise complaints?
Landlords must address complaints that threaten your reasonable enjoyment or safety.
Who can I contact if there is no heat in my rental during winter?
Contact your landlord. If unresolved, reach out to your municipality or file an LTB Form T6.
Are landlords required to provide secure locks on main doors?
Yes, entry doors must have proper locking devices by law.
What should I do if my landlord threatens to remove the door or locks?
This is not allowed. You can report this to municipal authorities or the Landlord and Tenant Board.
My landlord wants to enter for repairs, but I feel unsafe. Can I refuse?
You generally cannot refuse entry with proper notice, but discuss concerns or request a reschedule if you feel threatened.
Can my landlord have a copy of my keys?
Yes, landlords must have access, but cannot use your keys except in accordance with entry rules or emergencies.
Do I have to replace locks if I lose my keys?
Inform your landlord; you may be responsible for cost, but the landlord arranges replacement.
What official form do I use for urgent repair requests?
Use LTB Form T6 to apply for maintenance or repair issues.
What should I do if I face immediate danger in my building?
Call 911 or your local police right away for immediate threats to your safety.
Are landlords allowed to have surveillance in laundry or washrooms?
No, surveillance is not permitted in private or sensitive areas.
Who checks fire safety in rental buildings?
Municipal fire departments conduct inspections; landlords must comply with fire code regulations.
Can a landlord evict me for reporting safety problems?
No, retaliation for reporting safety or maintenance is strictly prohibited by law.
What is considered an “emergency” entry?
Emergencies include fire, flooding, or anything threatening health and safety.
My neighbour’s actions are affecting my safety. What can I do?
Report the behaviour to your landlord and contact police if it’s an immediate threat.
How do I file a complaint at the Landlord and Tenant Board?
Complete and submit the appropriate application form online or by mail to the LTB.
Can the landlord disconnect utilities as a security measure?
No, landlords cannot disconnect vital services like heat, water, or electricity as a means of security.
May I install additional security features (e.g., chain lock) in my unit?
You need your landlord’s written approval for additions or modifications to locks or security devices.
Are pest infestations considered a safety issue?
Yes, landlords are responsible for pest control to maintain a healthy living environment.
What are my rights to privacy in my unit?
Landlords cannot enter your unit or invade your privacy except as permitted by law.
How much notice is required for the landlord to enter for inspections?
At least 24 hours’ written notice is required.
What if safety repairs are not done after multiple requests?
File LTB Form T6 or contact your city by-law office for enforcement action.
Can my landlord enter my apartment while I’m not home?
Yes, with proper written notice and only for valid reasons stated in the law.
What constitutes a “vital service” in Ontario rentals?
Heat, fuel, hydro, gas, hot or cold water are all considered vital services.
Where can I find official tenant complaint forms?
All forms are available on the LTB official forms page.
Can my landlord remove the front entrance door for repairs?
Only temporarily and if arrangements are made for your safety and security.
Is proper exterior lighting a landlord’s responsibility?
Yes, landlords should ensure adequate lighting for common areas and entryways.
Can a landlord refuse to install security features?
They can refuse extra features, but must provide at least basic security as required by law.
Where do I go for free tenant legal advice about safety?
Contact CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario) or your local legal aid clinic.
What can I do if my landlord repeatedly enters without notice?
Document each incident and consider filing a complaint with the LTB using Form T2: Application about Tenant Rights.
Who is responsible for hallway and building entrance safety?
The landlord is responsible for the safety and maintenance of common areas and entrances.
Can a landlord change the building’s security system without telling tenants?
Landlords should inform tenants of changes and provide any new keys or codes as needed.
Do bedroom doors require locks?
Generally not required, unless your lease or rules for shared accommodation say otherwise.
What rights do I have if security issues are causing health problems?
You may apply to the LTB for remedies if your health is affected by landlord neglect or unsafe conditions.
Is my landlord responsible for snow and ice removal around the building?
Yes, unless your lease clearly states you are responsible for it.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores safety repairs?
No. Instead, file a complaint or an application with the LTB for repair issues.
What is the Residential Tenancies Act?
It’s the Ontario law that governs landlord and tenant rights, including safety and security requirements.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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