Landlord wants me to pay for a repair
Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the rental unit. Tenants are usually only responsible for damage they caused — not normal wear and tear or pre-existing issues.
Information only — not legal advice. Ontario tenant law has exceptions. For your specific situation, contact WUSA Student Legal Protection or a licensed paralegal.
Your rights (general)
- •Maintenance and repair of the unit (plumbing, appliances included in the lease, structural issues) is generally the landlord's responsibility.
- •You may be responsible for damage you or your guests caused beyond normal wear and tear — the landlord must prove this.
- •Landlords cannot simply deduct repair costs from last month's rent without following proper processes.
- •If charged for pre-existing damage you documented at move-in, your photos and checklist matter.
What to do next
- 1Reply in writing that you dispute the charge and explain why (wear and tear, pre-existing, landlord's maintenance duty).
- 2Reference your move-in photos or checklist if the damage existed before you moved in.
- 3Do not pay under pressure without understanding your rights — get advice first.
- 4If money is withheld, see the deposit recovery guide and consider a T1 application.
Official forms & resources
- T1 — Tenant Application for a Refund →Landlord and Tenant Board
- Deposit recovery guide →SubletShield
Need personal advice?
WUSA Student Legal Protection offers free legal advice for UW students on housing disputes. WLUSU members can contact WLUSU Legal Care.
Keep records from day one: documents to keep checklist