Renting in Mississauga? Here’s what to do when maintenance problems arise

Heating problems, water leaks and pest infestations can become more difficult to manage as temperatures drop. This fall, renters may notice these and other maintenance issues in their homes. Knowing what to do and where to get help can make it easier to resolve problems before they affect health, safety and comfort.

Whether you rent an apartment, basement unit, room or house, acting early can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems. Renters who know where to turn for help can often resolve concerns sooner.

Common rental housing concerns

Rental homes should be safe and well-maintained. Common concerns include:

• Heating and cooling problems
• Water leaks and plumbing issues
• Pest infestations
• Damaged walls, ceilings, floors, doors, or windows
• Mould, broken appliances, or electrical problems

Fall is a good time to learn about available help before colder weather arrives. During winter, heating problems may become more noticeable. If they are not fixed, they can affect health and well-being.

Start with your landlord or property manager

If you have a maintenance or property standards concern in your rental home:

1. First, determine whether the issue is your responsibility, such as routine cleaning, resetting a tripped breaker or replacing a light bulb.
2. For other maintenance or property standards concerns, contact your landlord or property manager.
3. Explain the issue clearly.
4. Give your landlord or property manager a reasonable opportunity to respond.
5. If the issue is not resolved, contact the City to learn about available options.

Many issues can be resolved when tenants and landlords communicate early and understand their responsibilities.

When to call the City

Renters do not need to contact the City about every housing issue. Contacting your landlord or property manager first is usually the best place to start.

If the issue is not resolved, the City may be able to help. The City can provide information about rental housing standards, explain available options, and help renters understand what support may be available.

Residents who are unsure of their next steps can call 311 for guidance. Calling 311 does not automatically mean filing a complaint. Residents can also request a call back from a Bylaw Officer to discuss their situation and available options.

Support for apartment building tenants

The City’s Rental Standards Program helps ensure registered apartment buildings are well maintained and meet City standards.

If you live in a registered apartment building and have reported a maintenance issue to property management without success, you may be able to report the concern through the program.

Learn how to report an issue with your rental building.

Safe and healthy homes support strong communities

Renters are an important part of every Mississauga neighbourhood. Safe, well maintained homes support health, comfort and strong communities.

Whether you’re new to renting, new to Mississauga or unsure where to start, knowing your responsibilities and acting early can help prevent concerns from becoming more serious.

Learn more

For information about property standards, rental housing concerns and available City services, visit the City’s Property Standards page or contact 311.

Tags

• By-laws and Policy
• Enforcement and Fines