Tenants' Rights: Pest Control and Maintenance

Section 20 of the RTA is referenced, outlining landlord obligations to address infestations promptly. The rights of the Tenant do include the right to like in a safe inhabitable residency. Rats, mice, cockroaches and bedbugs should not be desired inhabitants to share you rental unit.

If the Landlord does not fix the problem there is potential for the Tenant to be awarded a rent reduction should landlords delay necessary repairs, supported by case law advocating for a bug-free living environment. The importance of maintaining open communication between tenants and landlords cannot be understated, alongside the legal frameworks that protect tenants' rights to a habitable living space. It is especially true with these unwanted critters.

Tenants need to be proactive in reporting issues and for landlords to adhere to their legal responsibilities, ensuring a safe and healthy living environment for all parties involved.

Take a look at a recent Spin Legal episode regarding this topic.

Action Points for Tenants:

• Contact the landlord immediately if pests are discovered in your rental unit.
• Landlord must contact a pest control specialist when a tenant complaints about pests.
• Tenants to prepare units as instructed for pest control visits.
• Investigate local bylaws regarding pest control and mold for tenants when facing persistent problems or the Landlord refuses to take action.

Landlord obligations under the Residential Tenancy Act and municipal property standards are clearly defined. The tenant has the right to a safe and habitable home. Landlords must maintain rental units in a good state of repair, fit for habitation, and compliant with health and safety standards, this includes dealing with mold, vermin, bedbugs, cockroaches, mice, rats, etc. Tenants have the right to expect repairs to be made in a timely manner. When it come to these unwanted critters, be aware that proper treatment does take time, and according to a pest expert may require multiple units to be treated at the same time.

Your landlord needs to address infestations or mold promptly once notified, significant delays may justify a rent reduction or compensation. Tenants have a right to claim a rent abatement or compensation when a landlord refuses to take appropriate action.

Pleasze be aware that tenants are not legally allowed to withhold rent as self-help remedy, that can end in your eviction.

If you need assistance with you maintenance or past problem then Invictus Legal LLP can assist.