In Ontario, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA, 2006) is the cornerstone of landlord-tenant law. It defines what landlords and tenants may and may not do, and how disputes must be settled. If you’re a landlord or tenant (or both), knowing your rights and duties under the RTA can prevent costly mistakes, disputes, and potentially legal consequences. This guide breaks down the key parts you need to know.

1. What the RTA Covers & Why It Matters

• The RTA is a provincial law that regulates most residential tenancies in Ontario.

• It sets rules on rent, maintenance, entry, evictions, and many more foundational areas. 

• Some private agreements or “extra charges” are illegal even if written in a lease—those parts are void or unenforceable. 

2. What Is Illegal for Landlords to Do in Ontario

1. Harass, threaten, or interfere with a tenant’s quiet enjoyment
   
   

   • Landlords cannot harass a tenant or interfere with their reasonable enjoyment of the premises. 

   • Examples include repeated unwanted entry, verbal threats, or trying to pressure the tenant to move out. 

2. Enter a unit without proper notice (unless an emergency)
   
   

   • Except in emergencies, landlords must provide written notice at least 24 hours in advance and enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. 

   • Entry must be for lawful reasons (repairs, inspection, showing unit, etc.).
     
     

3. Withhold vital services or interfere with their supply
   
   

   • Services such as heat, water, electricity, gas are “vital services.” Landlords may not withhold, reduce, or interfere with those. 

   • Doing so is an offence under the RTA.
     
     

4. Charge illegal or unauthorized fees
   
   

   • Landlords cannot impose extra fees not allowed or agreed under the RTA. 

   • For example: landlord taxes, general cleaning, arbitrary “maintenance” charges, or fees not in the lease may be illegal.
     
     

5. Evict without proper process or without LTB order
   
   

   • Landlords must follow the proper notice forms (N-series) and procedures. 

   • They can’t lock someone out or change locks without an eviction order enforced by the Sheriff. 

3. What Landlords Can Charge for Damages – Limits & Rules

• Tenants are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear, whether caused intentionally or by negligence. 

• The landlord must prove the damage and provide evidence (photos, receipts, repair quotes) when seeking compensation via the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

• The RTA also requires that anyone claiming damages must take reasonable steps to minimize losses (i.e., you can’t let damage worsen and then charge everything).

• There is no fixed “maximum” set in the RTA for damages—amounts will depend on the actual cost and evidence.
  
  

4. Repair & Maintenance: Who Is Responsible for What?

Landlord’s Duties:

• Maintain the rental unit and all items the landlord provides, in a good state of repair. 

• Ensure the premises comply with health, safety, and housing standards.

• Respond to repair requests and address them within a reasonable time. 

Tenant’s Duties:

• Keep the unit reasonably clean and sanitary. 

• Repair or pay for repair of damage caused by themselves, guests, or co-occupants (beyond usual wear and tear). 

• Inform the landlord of needed repairs in a timely manner. 

5. How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix Something in Ontario?

• The RTA itself does not specify exact time limits; it uses the term “reasonable time”. 

• What’s reasonable depends on urgency, the nature of the problem, and whether it affects health or safety. 

• For emergencies (burst pipe, no heat in winter, major electrical fault), landlords are expected to act immediately or nearly immediately.

• For non-urgent issues (a broken window, dripping faucet), it might be days to a couple of weeks, depending on circumstances.

• If repairs are delayed, tenants may file a T6 application at the LTB asking for orders or rent abatement. 

Final Summary

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act lays out a balanced framework between landlords and tenants. Landlords must respect tenants’ rights—no harassment, no illegal fees, proper notice for entry—and maintain properties in good repair. Tenants must pay rent, keep the unit clean, notify the landlord of needed repairs, and only be responsible for damage beyond normal wear. When disputes arise, evidence, documentation, and recourse through the Landlord and Tenant Board are essential. Understanding these rules helps both sides avoid conflict and ensures the tenancy runs smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is illegal for landlords to do in Ontario?

• Harass or threaten tenants or interfere with their peaceful enjoyment

• Enter the unit without proper notice or at improper times (except emergencies)

• Withhold vital services (heat, water, electricity, gas)

• Charge unauthorized or illegal fees

• Evict without following the proper legal process or without an eviction order
  

2. What is the most a landlord can charge for damages?
There’s no fixed cap. The landlord can charge for the actual costs of repair or replacement, supported by evidence, but must also minimize losses.

3. What repairs are tenants responsible for in Ontario?
Tenants must repair or pay for damage they (or their guests) cause beyond normal wear and tear. They also must notify the landlord of needed repairs.

4. How long does a landlord have to fix something in Ontario?
There’s no fixed timeline in the RTA—repairs must be done within a reasonable time. Urgent issues require prompt action; less urgent ones may take days to weeks depending on circumstances.

5. Can a landlord charge for damages in Ontario?
Yes—if damage is above normal wear and tear, and if they can prove it, a landlord may recover costs through the LTB or as part of termination proceedings.

In modern condo living, convenience and security are more important than ever. Riverside Square offers residents a full concierge service, elevating everyday living with personalized assistance, safety, and peace of mind. From package management to guest services, the concierge is an essential part of the Riverside Square lifestyle.

1. Personalized Assistance for Everyday Tasks

• The concierge handles package deliveries, ensuring items are safely stored until residents can collect them.

• Residents can rely on the concierge to coordinate maintenance requests and liaise with building management.

• From booking taxis to providing local information, concierge staff help simplify daily life.

2. Enhanced Security & Peace of Mind

• The concierge monitors the building entrance 24/7, ensuring that only authorized guests and residents gain access.

• Emergency response support and visitor logging enhance safety for all residents.

• Knowing someone is always present at the front desk gives residents added peace of mind.

3. Premium Services That Elevate Lifestyle

• Some concierge staff offer premium services, including dry cleaning pickup, reservations, or delivery coordination.

• These extra conveniences save time and make it easier to balance busy urban lifestyles.

• Concierge staff act as a personal point of contact for questions, recommendations, and daily needs.

4. Community Engagement & Resident Relations

• The concierge helps maintain a friendly, professional environment, welcoming guests and fostering positive interactions.

• Residents often benefit from building-wide announcements, event coordination, and guidance for amenities use.

• This contributes to a cohesive and connected community atmosphere.
  
  

5. Adding Value to Condo Living

• A dedicated concierge adds tangible value to Riverside Square units by enhancing convenience, security, and lifestyle quality.

• Buyers and renters often consider concierge availability a premium feature that makes a property more desirable.

• It’s an investment in comfort, safety, and peace of mind that pays off daily.
  
  

Final Summary

Riverside Square’s concierge service is more than just a desk—it’s a cornerstone of modern condo living. By providing personalized assistance, enhancing security, offering premium services, and supporting community engagement, the concierge ensures residents enjoy the ultimate combination of convenience, comfort, and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a concierge do in a condo?
A condo concierge manages tasks such as package handling, visitor access, maintenance coordination, and providing information to residents, ensuring daily life runs smoothly.

What is a premium concierge?
A premium concierge offers additional services beyond standard tasks, such as booking reservations, arranging deliveries, and providing personal assistance tailored to residents’ lifestyles.

What is a concierge service in a flat?
In a flat or apartment, a concierge service performs similar roles as in a condo—managing security, assisting with deliveries, and providing resident support to enhance convenience and safety.

What is a concierge house?
A concierge house is a residential property or estate that includes a dedicated concierge or staff member to handle daily operations, security, and resident needs, often found in luxury settings.