As a tenant in Ontario, you have the right to live in a safe, well-maintained rental unit. When something breaks or needs repair, your landlord is legally responsible for fixing and maintaining essential services. However, many tenants aren’t sure how to request repairs properly, which can lead to delays or disputes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about maintenance and repair requests, including your rights, how to submit a request, and what to do if your landlord refuses to make repairs.

1. What Repairs Are Landlords Responsible For?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), landlords must ensure rental units meet health, safety, and maintenance standards. This includes:

✅ Essential Services: Heating, plumbing, electricity, and water supply.
✅ Structural Repairs: Roof leaks, broken doors, or foundation issues.
✅ Pest Control: Bedbugs, rodents, or infestations beyond the tenant’s control.
✅ Appliances Provided by the Landlord: If your unit includes a landlord-provided fridge, stove, or other appliances, they are responsible for repairs or replacements.
✅ Common Areas: Hallways, elevators, parking areas, and entryways must be kept in good condition.

🚨 Important: Even if a tenant signed a lease saying they must handle repairs, this is illegal—landlords cannot transfer maintenance responsibilities to tenants.

For more on landlord responsibilities, check Ontario’s Rental Laws.

2. What Repairs Are Tenants Responsible For?

Tenants must keep their unit clean and prevent unnecessary damage.

✅ You are responsible for:

• Cleaning and minor maintenance (e.g., changing light bulbs, unclogging sinks).
• Repairing damage caused by you, your guests, or pets.
• Preventing mold growth by using ventilation fans and keeping areas dry.

🚨 You CANNOT be charged for normal wear and tear. If your carpet is worn out from age, or paint fades over time, your landlord must handle replacements or repainting.

For more details, check Tenant Rights & Responsibilities.

3. How to Submit a Maintenance or Repair Request

When something breaks, follow these steps to ensure a quick and documented resolution:

📌 Step 1: Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Send a written request via email or text message (so you have a record).
• Clearly describe the issue, location, and how it affects you.
• Attach photos or videos if possible.

✍️ Example Request:
Subject: Urgent Repair Needed – Broken Heater
Hi [Landlord’s Name],
I wanted to inform you that the heating in my unit is not working. Since temperatures are dropping, I’d appreciate it if this could be addressed as soon as possible. Please let me know when a repair technician can come by. I’ve attached a video showing the issue. Thanks!
Best, [Your Name]

📌 Step 2: Give Your Landlord a Reasonable Timeframe

• Emergency repairs (e.g., no heat in winter, major leaks) → Within 24 hours.
• Urgent issues (e.g., broken appliances, mold growth) → Within a few days.
• Non-urgent repairs (e.g., peeling paint, minor plumbing issues) → Up to 2 weeks.

📌 Step 3: Follow Up if No ResponseIf your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time:

• Send a polite reminder.
• Request an estimated repair date.
• If still no response, move to Step 4.

For more on writing effective repair requests, check How to Communicate with Your Landlord.

4. What to Do If Your Landlord Ignores Your Request

If your landlord ignores or refuses to fix an issue, take the following actions:

📌 Step 1: Document Everything

• Keep copies of emails, texts, or letters.
• Take photos/videos of the issue.
• Keep a timeline of your requests.

📌 Step 2: File a Complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)

• Complete Form T6 – Tenant Application About Maintenance – Available here.
• Submit it online, by mail, or in person.
• The LTB may order the landlord to complete repairs or compensate you.

📌 Step 3: Contact Local Bylaw or Health Inspectors

• If your issue affects safety or health, call your city’s bylaw office.
• A bylaw officer can inspect the unit and force the landlord to comply.

Need help filing an LTB complaint? Book a consultation with Carson Frankum.

5. Can You Withhold Rent If Repairs Aren’t Done?

🚨 No! Withholding rent is NOT allowed in Ontario. If you stop paying rent, your landlord can legally evict you.

✅ What You CAN Do Instead:

• File a T6 Application to request a rent reduction until repairs are made.
• Request an abatement of rent (compensation for inconvenience).
• Seek an LTB order forcing repairs.

For more on tenant rights, check What to Do If a Landlord Refuses Repairs.

6. Can a Landlord Evict You for Requesting Repairs?

🚨 No! Retaliation evictions are illegal.

If your landlord tries to evict you after you request repairs, you can:

• File a T2 Application with the LTB for harassment.
• Gather evidence proving the eviction is retaliatory.

For more details, check How to Fight an Illegal Eviction.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights as a Tenant

Every tenant in Ontario has the right to a safe and well-maintained home. If your landlord isn’t addressing necessary repairs, following the proper steps ensures you’re protected and can get results.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Submit repair requests in writing and keep records.
• Know what repairs landlords are responsible for.
• If ignored, escalate through the LTB or bylaw offices.
• Never withhold rent as leverage—it’s illegal.

🚀 Need legal help with a landlord dispute? Contact Carson Frankum to ensure your rights are upheld.