What if my place has cockroaches, mice, or other pests?

If there is a pest problem in your unit or your building, make sure your landlord knows about it. Give your landlord as much information as possible about the problem, and ask them to take care of it. Keep notes for yourself about when you talked to your landlord and what each of you said.

For most types of pests, you may have to do things to get your unit ready for the pest control company. For example, you may have to move furniture away from walls, clear off shelves, or have all your clothing and bedding laundered. Tell your landlord if you want help getting your place ready. If you need help because of a disability, your landlord must try to help you.

If certain pest control methods would cause health problems for you, make sure to tell your landlord about this. If this is because of a disability, your landlord must try to find a solution.

If your landlord does not take action soon, send a letter or an email to your landlord. Make sure to keep a copy for yourself. Or, if your landlord has a special form for maintenance requests, fill one out and keep a copy.

It is safest to keep paying your rent while you are trying to get your landlord to deal with pest problems. If you do not pay all your rent for any reason, your landlord can try to have you evicted.

If your landlord does not deal with the problem, you can call your local property standards or health department, or your town or city hall, municipal office, or local councillor. Many cities, towns, and other municipalities have inspectors who can order your landlord to take steps to deal with pests.

If there are no housing standards by-laws where you live, your municipality has to enforce the provincial maintenance standards.