Know Your Rights: A Guide for Seniors & Tenants with Disabilities in Ontario Social Housing
Living in social housing provides essential stability, but it’s important to know your rights as a tenant under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). This guide focuses on your right to privacy, how to handle unexpected visits, getting repairs done, and using the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) if needed. This information applies across Ontario.
1. Your Right to Privacy: Rules for Landlord Entry
You have the right to privacy and “quiet enjoyment” of your home. This means your landlord or property management or contractors staff acting for them cannot enter your unit whenever they please.
- 24-Hour Written Notice is Required: For most situations (like routine inspections, non-emergency repairs, or showing the unit to potential buyers/renters), your landlord must give you written notice at least 24 hours before they plan to enter.
- If you request written notice and the landlord atemts to enter without notice it is a violation for them to punish you by closing the work order instead of providing notice or pressuring you to allow them access without a notice.
- What the Notice Must Include: The written notice must state:
- The reason for entry.
- The date of entry.
- The time of entry (between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM).
- Exceptions: Notice is not required only in specific cases, such as:
- An emergency (like a fire or serious water leak).
- If you consent to the entry at the time they arrive.
- If your lease requires the landlord to clean your unit and you have an agreement on timing.
2. Handling Unexpected Visits & “Door Knocking”
Property managers or staff sometimes visit tenants’ doors without providing the required written notice. You need to know how to handle this.
- You Are NOT Obligated to Interact: If someone from property management comes to your door without giving you proper 24-hour written notice (and it’s not an emergency), you have absolutely no obligation to open the door or speak with them.
- Protect Your Privacy: Some tenants worry that staff doing “door knocking” may not have their best interests at heart or might pressure them. Standing firm on your right to proper notice protects your privacy and prevents you from feeling obligated to discuss issues unprepared.
2. Handling Unexpected Visits & “Door Knocking”
Property managers or staff sometimes visit tenants’ doors without providing the required written notice. You need to know how to handle this.
- You Are NOT Obligated to Interact: If someone from property management comes to your door without giving you proper 24-hour written notice (and it’s not an emergency), you have absolutely no obligation to open the door or speak with them.
- Protect Your Privacy: Some tenants worry that staff doing “door knocking” may not have their best interests at heart or might pressure them. Standing firm on your right to proper notice protects your privacy and prevents you from feeling obligated to discuss issues unprepared.
- What You Can Say (If You Choose): Remember, you have the absolute right to refuse to speak with them at your door. There is nothing in the Residential Tenancies Act that requires you to have these unscheduled conversations. If you choose to respond at all, instead of discussing the matter verbally, you can simply say: “If you have anything you need to discuss with me, please put it in writing.” This directs them to use proper, documented channels and respects your right to privacy and time.
- Demand Written Notice: Always insist on your right to receive proper written notice before allowing non-emergency entry or engaging in detailed discussions at your doorstep.
3. Getting Repairs Done Correctly
Your landlord is responsible for keeping your unit and the building in a good state of repair.
- Put Repair Requests in Writing: If something needs fixing, notify your landlord or property management in writing (email or letter). Keep a copy for your records. Be specific about the problem(s).
- Request Notice for Repairs: In your written request, you can also remind them that you require 24 hours’ written notice before they enter your unit to perform the repairs (unless it’s an emergency fix).
- If Repairs Are Delayed: Landlords must do repairs in a timely manner. If they don’t:
- Send another written notice. Remind them of the needed repairs and the date of your first request.
- State clearly that the repairs need to be performed immediately (or by a reasonable deadline).
- Inform them that if the repairs are not completed promptly, you will be filing an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
4. Using the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)
The LTB is the official body that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants in Ontario.
- Don’t Be Afraid: Filing with the LTB is your right if your landlord isn’t meeting their obligations (like failing to make repairs or entering your unit illegally). Do not be afraid to stand up for your rights. The process is there to protect tenants.
- Common Forms: You might use Form T6 (“Tenant Application about Maintenance”) for repair issues or Form T2 (“Application about Tenant Rights”) if your landlord entered illegally, harassed you, or interfered with your quiet enjoyment.
- You Can File Online or by Mail: Information and forms are available on the LTB website.
5. Can’t Afford the LTB Application Fee? (Fee Waiver)
There is a fee to file an application with the LTB, but if you cannot afford it, you can ask to have it waived.
- Fee Waiver Form: You need to fill out the “Application for Fee Waiver” form, available on the LTB website.
- Based on Income: The waiver is based on your income (e.g., if you receive ODSP, Ontario Works, GIS, or have low income according to specific guidelines). You’ll need to provide proof of your income.
Important Reminders:
- Keep Copies: Always keep copies of letters, emails, notices, and any photos related to your tenancy issues.
- Seek Advice: If you are unsure about your rights or need help, contact your local Community Legal Clinic