Your Rights As A Tenant
As a tenant, it’s essential to be aware of your rights to ensure a fair and safe rental experience. In London, Ontario, tenant rights are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), which outlines the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. Here are key tenant rights you should know about.
1. Right to a Safe and Habitable Living Environment
Your landlord is obligated to provide a rental property that is safe, well-maintained, and habitable. This includes ensuring that essential services such as heating, plumbing, and electricity are in good working order. If the property requires repairs, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to address them promptly.
2. Right to Privacy
As a tenant, you have the right to privacy in your rental unit. Landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit for non-emergency reasons, such as repairs or inspections. The notice should specify the date, time, and purpose of entry.
3. Right to Non-Discriminatory Treatment
Landlords cannot discriminate against tenants based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, family status, disability, or any other protected characteristic. This right ensures fair treatment in all aspects of the rental process, from application to tenancy.
4. Right to Timely Repairs and Maintenance
Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental property in good repair. If something in your unit breaks or needs maintenance, you have the right to request repairs. Landlords must address these requests within a reasonable timeframe to ensure your living conditions are not adversely affected.
5. Right to Reasonable Notice of Rent Increases
Landlords can increase rent, but they must provide at least 90 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect. The increase must comply with the rent control guidelines set by the Ontario government, which limits the percentage by which rent can be increased annually.
6. Right to a Fair Eviction Process
Tenants cannot be evicted without cause or without following the legal process. Landlords must provide valid reasons for eviction, such as non-payment of rent, substantial damage to the property, or the landlord’s intention to move into the unit. Tenants have the right to challenge an eviction notice at the Landlord and Tenant Board.
7. Right to Withhold Rent for Major Issues
If a landlord fails to address significant repair issues that affect your health and safety, you may have the right to withhold rent until the issues are resolved. However, this should be done cautiously and often requires legal advice to avoid potential repercussions.
8. Right to Know Your Lease Terms
It’s crucial to understand the terms of your lease agreement. This document outlines your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and the landlord’s obligations. Ensure you read and comprehend all clauses before signing the lease.
9. Right to Join a Tenant Association
Tenants have the right to form or join tenant associations to collectively address issues with their landlord or advocate for tenant rights. Participation in such associations cannot be used as grounds for eviction or discrimination by the landlord.
Knowing your rights as a tenant in London, Ontario, empowers you to ensure a fair and respectful rental experience. Always communicate openly with your landlord and seek legal advice if you believe your rights are being violated.
