When it comes to renting a property in Ontario, landlords have certain duties to guarantee that the rental unit is clean and secure for tenants. This includes adhering to all building codes, fixing any damage, keeping common areas tidy, and making sure that the property has running water and garbage containers. Landlords must also take steps to control pests, such as cockroaches and mice. Legally speaking, tenants are only responsible for “normal cleaning”. This provision, Article 33 of the Residential Leasing Act (RTA), is open to interpretation, but it doesn't leave much room for GTA landlords to impose rules to keep things neat.
The owner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining common or shared areas of the building, such as hallways and patios. This includes the lobby, corridors, elevator, laundry room, pool, and parking or garage. The owner is also responsible for removing snow from driveways, walkways, etc. In short, landlords have an obligation to make sure that their tenants have a safe and clean place to live. This means that they must keep the rental property clean and take steps to control pests.
They must also maintain common areas of the building and remove snow from driveways and walkways.
