If your landlord doesn’t respond, contact your local Property Standards department. If the issue still isn’t resolved, reach out to the Landlord and Tenant Board for support.
Tenants and Homeowners
Your home should be a safe and comfortable space for you and your family. But hidden problems—like mould, pests, or broken stairs—can sometimes threaten your health and safety. The good news? You can take simple steps to keep your home safe.
What should tenants do?
If you rent your home, it’s your landlord’s responsibility to fix hazards. Here’s what to do:
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Report problems right away. Use email or written letters to describe the issue clearly.
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Be specific. Explain what’s wrong and ask for a timeline for repairs.
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Keep records. Save emails, letters, and photos as proof in case you need to follow up later.
What if your landlord doesn’t fix the problem?
If your landlord doesn’t act, here’s how to proceed:
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Send a follow-up message and explain why the issue is urgent.
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Document everything. Keep copies of photos and written communication.
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Contact Property Standards. Call your city or town’s Property Standards Department for help.
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Reach out to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). If the problem still isn’t resolved, the LTB can help settle disputes between landlords and tenants.
When should you contact Property Standards?
Your city or town’s Property Standards Department ensures rental units meet local property by-laws. Call them if you notice:
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Unsafe stairs, walls, or roofs
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Plumbing, heating, or electrical issues
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Mould, pests, or garbage buildup that isn’t being addressed
How can homeowners prevent hazards?
Taking care of your home regularly helps stop small problems from becoming big ones. Here’s how:
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Check your home annually. Look for leaks, mould, pests, or structural damage.
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Fix small problems quickly. Don’t wait to repair leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or loose railings.
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Test your home for radon.
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Hire professionals when needed. For major issues like electrical work or roofing, bring in experts to do the job safely.
What to do next
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For tenants: Report hazards to your landlord. If they don’t act, contact Property Standards or the Landlord and Tenant Board.
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For homeowners: Use this guide to check for hazards and fix them before they grow.
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For landlords: Follow Ontario’s property standards to ensure your rental property is safe.
Have questions? Contact us at 1-800-922-0096 for advice and support.
Frequently asked questions
What if my landlord refuses to fix a serious problem?
Do I need a professional to clean mould?
You can clean small mouldy spots with soap and water. For larger or recurring issues, call a professional.
Who is responsible for fixing hazards in a rental home?
Landlords are responsible for addressing hazards in rental properties. Tenants should report problems promptly and document the issue.
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St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G9
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Woodstock, ON N4S 4N2
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