When Landlords Deny Security Upgrades in Ontario

Many tenants in Ontario worry when a landlord refuses to approve security upgrades such as new locks, deadbolts, better exterior lighting, or window locks. If you feel unsafe or your rental unit lacks basic security, you have options: ask for permission in writing, offer a qualified installer, or propose sharing the cost. This article explains tenant rights under Ontario rules, when landlords can reasonably refuse, practical steps to document requests, and how to file with the Landlord and Tenant Board when necessary so you can take practical steps to improve safety in your home.

Why security upgrades matter

Security upgrades help protect people and property and support basic habitability standards. Landlords have obligations under provincial law to maintain a rental unit in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation; tenants can point to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for those basic duties ^[1]. If a unit lacks working locks or exterior lighting, the tenant can raise the issue and request a solution that balances safety and the landlord's property rights.

Can a landlord refuse security upgrades?

A landlord can sometimes refuse if a requested change would be unsafe, violate building code, harm the structure, or affect other tenants. Review the lease and consider whether the upgrade is a small reasonable change or a structural alteration that requires professional approval. For a plain overview of landlord and tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

• Requests that create safety or code violations may be refused.
• Changes that permanently alter the building structure can be denied.
• Upgrades that reasonably interfere with other tenants' access or security may not be approved.
• Landlords may refuse unqualified installers or work that increases long-term liability.

How to ask for security upgrades

Always start by making a clear written request to your landlord. Include details, reasons, photos, and a suggested solution such as a licensed installer or a proposal to share costs. Keep copies of every message and proof of delivery. If you and the landlord agree on work, get the agreement in writing and keep receipts.

• Write a dated request that explains the security issue and proposed date for work.
• Attach photos, videos, and evidence showing the problem.
• Offer a professional installer and details about the planned repair or upgrade.
• Offer to pay part of the cost or propose cost-sharing if you are able.
• Request a written reply within a reasonable timeframe, for example within 14 days.

If a landlord denies your request

If the landlord refuses, remain calm and document everything. Try asking for a reason in writing and whether a modified solution would be acceptable. If you cannot resolve the issue directly, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for a remedy; see the Board for information and filings ^[2]. Use the Board's official forms and filing instructions when you apply ^[3]. For a plain summary of tenant rights specific to Ontario, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Ontario.

1. Gather dated records: messages, photos, receipts, and any witnesses.
2. Send a formal written request and keep proof of delivery such as email receipts or registered mail.
3. If refused, prepare and submit the appropriate application using the Landlord and Tenant Board forms ^[3].
4. Attend the hearing, bring copies of all evidence, and explain the safety risk and proposed reasonable fixes.
5. Follow any order the Board issues and keep records if further enforcement is needed.

FAQ

Can I install a new lock myself if the landlord says no?

If the lease forbids alterations, get written permission first or offer to have a licensed locksmith install a compliant lock and return keys to the landlord. If safety is at risk, document why and follow the steps above.

Who pays for security upgrades?

Payment depends on whether the upgrade is a landlord responsibility or a tenant request. Offer to cost-share if acceptable, but never unilaterally make permanent changes without agreement.

How long will a Landlord and Tenant Board application take?

Timelines vary. The Board will schedule a hearing and you should prepare evidence; bring documentation of attempts to resolve the issue directly.

How-To

1. Prepare a dated written request describing the security issue and the change you want.
2. Attach photos, videos, and any prior communications as evidence.
3. Offer a professional installer and a clear cost estimate or cost-sharing plan.
4. Send the request to the landlord and keep proof of delivery.
5. If refused, file the appropriate application with the Landlord and Tenant Board and attend the hearing with evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Landlord and Tenant Board help and information
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (text of the law)
• Landlord and Tenant Board forms and filing instructions

If you decide to look for a new rental because of safety concerns, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare options and neighbourhood features.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. [2] Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario)
3. [3] Landlord and Tenant Board forms and instructions