Who Pays for Window & Door Repairs in Ontario?

Renters in Ontario often wonder who covers the cost when windows or doors need repair or replacement. Whether the issue is a broken lock, a drafty frame, fogged double glazing, or damage from weather or accidental impact, knowing your rights and responsibilities helps you take the right steps and avoid conflict. This guide explains when landlords are usually responsible under provincial rules, when tenants may be expected to pay, how to document problems, and practical steps for requesting repairs in Ontario. It also covers emergency repairs, small maintenance tasks tenants commonly handle, and what to do if repairs are refused or delayed so you can protect your living conditions.

Who is generally responsible for repairs?

Under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must maintain rental units in a good state of repair and fit for habitation, including windows and exterior doors that affect safety, heating, and weatherproofing. ^[1] Tenants are generally responsible for minor maintenance and damages they or their guests cause by carelessness or misuse. If a repair affects habitability — like a broken exterior door lock or severely drafty windows that affect heating — the landlord is typically responsible to fix or replace these items at their cost.

Common examples

• Repair of a broken deadbolt after normal wear and tear (landlord responsibility).
• Replacement of fogged sealed-unit glazing that no longer insulates (landlord responsibility when it affects heating).
• Repair costs for a window or door damaged by the tenant or guest (tenant responsibility).

How to ask for repairs and document the issue

Start by telling your landlord in writing, with dates and photos, what needs fixing and why. Give a reasonable deadline for non-emergency issues and explain any safety concerns for urgent problems. Keep copies of everything and follow up if you do not hear back. If the landlord does not respond, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order to have repairs completed. ^[2]

Step-by-step: what to include in your repair request

1. State the date you first noticed the problem and when you sent the request.
2. Attach photos, videos, and any receipts for temporary fixes or emergency measures.
3. Note any safety risks (broken lock, glass hazard) and ask for urgent attention if needed.
4. Request a written reply and keep a copy of all communications.

When to involve the Landlord and Tenant Board

If a landlord fails to repair an issue that affects habitability or safety within a reasonable time after being notified, tenants may file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board. The Board can order repairs and may allow tenants to recover costs in some situations. The Board's forms and instructions are on its website. ^[2]

For non-urgent but necessary repairs, give your landlord reasonable time to respond. For emergencies that create immediate danger to health or safety, call emergency services if there is an immediate risk and notify your landlord as soon as possible.

Costs, deductions and temporary fixes

In Ontario, a tenant should not unilaterally withhold rent to force repairs. If you pay for an emergency repair and expect reimbursement, keep all receipts and request repayment in writing. If the landlord still refuses, you can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for compensation or an order for the landlord to pay. Examples of acceptable tenant-paid items are small, agreed-upon fixes where the landlord gave prior consent.

Practical tenant actions

• Send a dated written request and keep a copy for your records.
• Document damage with photos and a short description of cause and effect.
• Follow up by phone and record the date and person you spoke with.

Relevant provincial rules and official forms

Ontario's rules are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, and disputes go to the Landlord and Tenant Board. If you need to request a hearing, use the Board's forms and follow its filing instructions. The official legislation and the Board's website explain landlord obligations on repairs and tenant remedies. ^[1][2]

FAQ

Who usually pays for window seals that have failed?

When sealed units fail and reduce insulation, the landlord is typically responsible because it affects heating and habitability; document the issue and request repair in writing.

Can I hire someone to repair a broken lock and deduct the cost from rent?

Do not deduct from rent without an order; instead, request reimbursement in writing and, if refused, apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for compensation.

What if a neighbour or visitor caused the damage?

If the damage was caused by a guest, the tenant is usually responsible; discuss insurance or reimbursement with the person responsible and your landlord.

How-To

1. Write a dated repair request with photos and send it to your landlord by email or registered mail.
2. Keep organized records: photos, messages, receipts, and notes of phone calls.
3. Phone your landlord for urgent issues and follow up in writing to confirm the call.
4. If the landlord does not act, complete the appropriate application form on the Landlord and Tenant Board website and file it according to instructions.
5. Attend any hearing and bring your documentation to support your claim.
6. After a decision, use the Board's enforcement options if the landlord still fails to comply.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must maintain windows and doors that affect safety and heating.
• Always document repair requests with dates and photos.
• If repairs are refused, file with the Landlord and Tenant Board using the official forms.

Help and Support / Resources

• Call Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) — Tribunals Ontario
• Contact Government of Ontario: Renting and repairs guidance
• View Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — e-Laws

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — e-Laws
2. [2] Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) — Tribunals Ontario
3. [3] Government of Ontario: Renting and repairs guidance