Renting an apartment or house in Ontario comes with certain guarantees — and one of them is the right to live in a home that’s safe, functional, and well-maintained. Whether it’s a leaking faucet, no heat in the winter, or a pest problem that won’t go away, knowing how to file a proper maintenance request can make a big difference in how quickly things get fixed.

This 2025 guide walks you through the most common maintenance problems tenants face in Ontario and shows you exactly how to report them effectively and legally.

Most Common Maintenance Requests in Ontario

Based on tenant complaints and city reports, here are the issues Ontario renters deal with most often:

1. Heating Problems

• No heat in the winter (below the legal minimum of 20°C between Sept 15 and June 1)
• Radiators or baseboard heaters not working

2. Plumbing Issues

• Leaky or dripping faucets
• Water pooling under sinks
• Slow or clogged drains
• No hot water

3. Electrical Problems

• Power outlets not functioning
• Lights that flicker or short out
• Exposed wiring — a serious safety risk

4. Pests

• Infestations of cockroaches, mice, ants, or bed bugs
• Outdoor pest issues like wasps or raccoons in sheds

5. Broken Appliances (If Provided by Landlord)

• Malfunctioning fridges, stoves, or dishwashers
• Washing machines not working properly in the unit

6. Windows and Doors

• Broken or drafty windows
• Faulty or insecure locks
• Missing or torn window screens

7. Mold and Water Damage

• Peeling paint, discolored walls, or ceiling stains
• Mold growth around windows or in bathrooms

Urgent vs. Non-Urgent Repairs: What’s the Priority?

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to determine the urgency of your repair and what to expect:

Issue	Urgency Level	Expected Response Time	Who to Notify
No heat in winter	High	Within 24 hours	Landlord + City Property Standards Office
Pest infestation	High	1–2 days	Landlord or Public Health Unit
Broken front door lock	High	Within 24 hours	Landlord, Police (if unsafe)
Leaky faucet or drain	Medium	3–7 days	Landlord
Broken appliance	Medium	3–5 days	Landlord
Minor crack in the wall	Low	1–2 weeks	Landlord

How to File a Maintenance Request the Right Way

A quick call or text might not be enough to get results — and it definitely won’t help if you need to escalate later. Follow these steps for a proper, legal maintenance request:

✅ Step 1: Document the Problem

• Take clear photos or a short video
• Write down when the problem started and how it’s affecting your day-to-day living

✅ Step 2: Send a Written Request

Put it in writing, either by email or a formal letter. Include:

• Your full name, address, and contact info
• A clear description of the issue
• The date it began
• Supporting photos/videos
• A reasonable deadline (e.g. 48 hours for urgent issues)

✅ Step 3: Keep a Record

Always save a copy of your request. If things escalate to the Landlord and Tenant Board, this will be key evidence.

✅ Step 4: Escalate if Nothing Happens

If your landlord doesn’t reply or take action:

• Call your city’s Bylaw Enforcement or Property Standards department
• File a T6 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
• Contact Ontario’s Rental Housing Enforcement Unit for support

Sample Maintenance Request Email

vbnetКопіюватиРедагуватиSubject: Maintenance Request – Unit [Your Unit Number]

Hello [Landlord's Name],

I’m writing to report an issue in my unit at [Your Address]. The problem is: [Brief description, e.g., "no hot water in the kitchen tap"]. It started on [Start Date], and I’ve attached photos for reference.

Please arrange for the issue to be resolved by [Reasonable Deadline].

Let me know that you’ve received this request.

Thank you,  
[Your Full Name]  
[Phone Number]  
[Email Address]

Your Rights Under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

If you’re a tenant in Ontario, the law is on your side. Here’s what the RTA guarantees:

• Your landlord must maintain the unit in good repair
• Heat, water, and electricity cannot be cut off or delayed
• You cannot be evicted for reporting repairs
• You must continue to pay rent, even while waiting for repairs
• You can apply to the LTB for rent reduction or compensation if repairs are delayed too long

FAQ: Maintenance Requests in Ontario

Can I stop paying rent if my landlord won’t fix the issue?
No. You still have to pay rent. Instead, file a T6 application with the Landlord and Tenant Board.

What is a T6 form?
It’s a legal form you submit to the LTB when your landlord fails to meet their repair obligations. You can ask for repairs, rent reductions, or compensation.

How long does my landlord have to fix something?

• 24–48 hours for emergency issues (no heat, broken locks)
• 3–7 days for most repairs
• Up to 14 days for less urgent issues

Is pest control my landlord’s job?
Yes — unless you caused the infestation by poor hygiene or leaving out food.

Can I fix something myself and deduct it from rent?
Not without permission. This is risky unless approved in writing or supported by the LTB.

Final Thoughts

Maintenance issues can be frustrating — but when you know your rights and follow the correct steps, you’re much more likely to get results. A properly written maintenance request, backed by documentation, puts you in a strong legal position.

If your landlord still doesn’t respond, escalate through the city or the Landlord and Tenant Board. Your health, safety, and comfort matter — and you don’t have to put up with poor conditions.

Need help? Visit tribunalsontario.ca/ltb or contact your local bylaw enforcement office.