When a dishwasher, stove, fridge, or other appliance stops working in your Ontario rental, it can disrupt your daily life. Understanding whether the landlord or tenant is responsible for appliance repairs can save you stress and help you get the problem fixed faster. This guide explains Ontario rules, how to request repairs, and what to do if an agreement can't be reached.

Landlord vs. Tenant: Who Handles Appliance Repairs?

In Ontario, appliance repair responsibilities depend on your rental agreement and the type of appliance. The core rules are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

• Landlord's responsibility: If appliances such as the fridge, stove, or washer/dryer were provided with the unit when you moved in, the landlord must keep them in good repair—even if your lease says otherwise.
• Tenant's responsibility: It's up to tenants to keep appliances reasonably clean, avoid causing damage, and use them properly. If a tenant or their guest breaks an appliance by misuse or neglect, the tenant could be liable for repair or replacement costs.

This means that if your rental includes a fridge or stove and it breaks due to normal wear and tear or age, your landlord is required by law to fix or replace it.

What About Small Appliances?

Items like microwaves, toasters, or portable air conditioners may not be listed in your tenancy agreement. If these belong to your landlord and were provided at move-in, the landlord generally must repair them. If you brought a small appliance, it’s your responsibility.

For more details on rights and obligations in your unit, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Requesting Appliance Repairs: Steps for Tenants

When an appliance stops working, notify your landlord as soon as possible. Written maintenance requests are always best—they make it easier to track your repair history.

• Describe the issue (e.g., "The refrigerator isn't cooling")
• Include the date the problem started
• Request a timeframe for repair

If your landlord doesn't respond within a reasonable time, you have additional options to resolve the issue. You can learn more about handling maintenance and routine fix requests in Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

What If the Repair Isn't Done?

If your landlord refuses or ignores your request, you can file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

• Form T6: Tenant Application about Maintenance

When to use: If your landlord hasn't fixed an appliance they're responsible for, fill out Form T6.

Example: Your rental agreement includes a dishwasher, which has been broken for weeks despite your written requests. Completing Form T6 lets you formally seek a repair order or possible rent abatement. Access the official form and instructions from the Landlord and Tenant Board and read about filing it here.

Emergencies and Health or Safety Issues

Some appliance breakdowns can be urgent, such as a stove that is sparking or a refrigerator failure that compromises food safety. The Residential Tenancies Act requires rental units be fit for habitation and comply with health standards.

• Unsafe appliance issues should be reported immediately
• Inform your landlord in writing, and if not addressed, seek advice from your city by-law office or the LTB

Learn more about your rights regarding safety in your rental in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Summary: Ontario Appliance Repair Responsibilities

To quickly recap:

• Your landlord is responsible for repairing or replacing provided appliances that break due to normal use.
• Notify your landlord in writing about appliance issues as soon as they arise.
• If repairs are delayed or refused, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for help.

For a broad summary of your protections as an Ontario renter, review Tenant Rights in Ontario.

Need to find a new place with reliable appliance maintenance? Browse apartments for rent in Canada with full details on included features and landlords who care about tenant comfort.

FAQ: Appliance Repairs for Ontario Tenants

1. Who pays to fix a broken fridge or stove in my Ontario rental? Usually, the landlord must repair or replace major appliances provided with the unit, unless you or your guests caused the damage.
2. Can my landlord make me pay for appliance repairs? Only if you, someone in your household, or a guest broke the appliance through misuse, neglect, or intentional damage.
3. What if my landlord refuses to fix a broken appliance? Notify your landlord again in writing; if there is still no response, you can file a Form T6 with the Landlord and Tenant Board.
4. Is my landlord responsible for small appliances? If a small appliance (like a microwave) was part of the rental package, the landlord likely must repair it; otherwise, it's your responsibility.
5. Where do I go for official help with repair disputes? Contact the Landlord and Tenant Board or your local municipal by-law office for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (Ontario): Get forms, advice, and file applications for repair orders.
• For urgent safety issues: Contact your local municipal by-law office or public health unit.
• For advocacy: Reach out to legal clinics or the Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario.
• Review full Tenant Rights in Ontario for more details.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Read the Residential Tenancies Act
2. Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): Official Board Website
3. LTB Form T6: T6 Tenant Application about Maintenance | Filing instructions

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