Understanding Rental Rights: Tenants and Landlords by Madison Miller

Introduction

As a university student, renting is something that can be both exciting and overwhelming. Between juggling classes, part-time jobs, athletics, or social life, understanding your rights as a tenant can sometimes be overlooked- until an issue arises. Whether it’s unexpected maintenance problems, disputes over security deposits, or something else, knowing where you stand legally is crucial. 

On the other hand, landlords are also assured rights and responsibilities that may impact your living situation. This article breaks down the key differences between tenant and landlord rights, helping students navigate rental agreements, handle disputes, and understand the roles of management companies to advocate for fair treatment. 

Tenant Rights 

In Ontario, tenants- including university students renting off-campus- are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA).

This includes key rights such as:

• Security of Tenure – Landlords cannot evict tenants without legal grounds, such as non-payment of rent or landlord use of the unit, and must follow proper legal procedures.

• Rent Control – Most rental units have limits on annual rent increases, which must comply with provincial guidelines.

• Maintenance & Repairs – Landlords are responsible for keeping rental units in a good state of repair, even if the lease says otherwise.

• Privacy Rights – Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering a unit, except in emergencies.

• Protection from Unlawful Fees – Landlords cannot demand extra fees beyond rent and key deposits (which must be refundable).

• Security Deposits – Landlords cannot charge damage deposits; only the last month’s rent can be collected in advance.

However, as an exception, for students sharing a unit with the landlord or their family, the RTA may not apply leaving fewer protections. However, for standard lease agreements, students have the same rights as any other tenant, and understanding them may help avoid unfair treatment and rental disputes. 

Landlord Rights

In Ontario, landlords' rights are also outlined under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA), which ensures they can manage their rental properties fairly and legally. 

This includes key rights such as:

• Collecting Rent – Landlords have the right to charge rent as agreed in the lease and take legal action if payments are missed.

• Increasing Rent – Rent increases must follow provincial guidelines and require 90 days written notice, but not all units are subject to rent control.

• Property Access – With 24 hours’ written notice, landlords can enter a unit for repairs, inspections, or to show it to prospective tenants. Emergencies allow immediate entry.

• Evictions for Cause – Landlords can apply to evict tenants for reasons such as non-payment of rent, excessive damage, or disruptive behavior, but must follow the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) process.

• Damage Recovery – If tenants cause damage beyond normal wear and tear, landlords can seek compensation through the LTB.

• Lease Enforcement – Tenants must follow the terms of the lease, including rules on subletting and occupancy limits.

Specifically, for student rentals, if the landlord shares the unit with the tenants the RTA may not apply, allowing landlords more flexibility in ending tenancies. However, for standard rental units, landlords must comply with RTA regulations while managing their properties effectively. 

The Role of Management Companies

Management companies hired by a landlord to handle day-to-day operations- such as Axon, Limestone, or Frontenac- often have their responsibilities, especially when dealing with larger apartment buildings or housing complexes. 

These responsibilities can include:

• Collecting rent and handling lease agreements

• Responding to maintenance requests and repairs

• Enforcing building rules and regulations

• Managing tenant communication and complaints

However, it is important to note that while management companies act on behalf of the landlord, the landlord remains legally responsible for ensuring compliance with the RTA. If issues arise, it’s important to know whether to escalate concerns to the management company or the landlord directly. 

Handling Disputes Regarding Rental Rights

If a dispute arises, a systematic approach is best to find a fair resolution for both tenants and landlords alike.

Including steps such as:

1. Communicate First – Most issues (repairs, rent concerns, noise complaints) can be resolved through open discussion. Always keep records of conversations.

2. Send a Written Notice – If verbal communication fails, tenants should submit a formal written request to the landlord or property manager outlining the issue.

3. Use the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) – If disputes remain unresolved, either party can apply with the LTB, which oversees legal disputes under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

4. Mediation or Hearing – The LTB may offer mediation to find a mutual agreement or hold a formal hearing where a decision is legally enforced.

5. Seek Legal Help – Tenants can contact the Ontario Tenant Hotline or Legal Aid Ontario, while landlords may consult a paralegal or lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law.

Acting quickly and following legal procedures ensures a smoother resolution while protecting both parties' rights.

Conclusion

Overall, navigating rental agreements as a university student can be challenging, but understanding both tenant and landlord rights under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 is essential. Tenants have protections regarding rent control, maintenance, and privacy, while landlords have rights to collect rent, enforce lease terms, and manage their properties. In many cases, property management companies handle day-to-day operations on behalf of landlords, but the legal responsibility remains with the property owner.

When disputes arise, open communication is the first step, followed by formal notices and, if necessary, legal action through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). Knowing your rights and responsibilities ensures a smoother rental experience, helping both students and landlords avoid conflicts and maintain a fair housing arrangement.

Renting as a student isn’t just about finding a place to crash between classes—it’s about knowing your rights and standing up for them. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn landlord, a slow-to-respond management company, or confusing lease terms, knowledge is your best defense. Stay informed, communicate clearly, and don’t be afraid to challenge unfair treatment. After all, a rental isn’t just a roof over your head—it’s your home.

Works Cited

The Investopedia Team. (2024, May 31). Property Management: Definition, Roles, Types, and Duties (L. D. Uradu & A. Courage, Ed.). Investopedia. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/property-management.asp

Ontario Government. (2006). Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, S.O. 2006, c. 17. Ontario. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06r17#act-verion

Ontario Government. (2024, June 28). Renting in Ontario: Your rights. Ontario. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://www.ontario.ca/page/renting-ontario-your-rights

Tribunals Ontario. (2024). Landlord and Tenant Board. Tribunals Ontario. Retrieved 2025, from https://tribunalsontario.ca/ltb/