So You Think Your Apartment is a Shady Character? A Guide to Illegal Units in Ontario
Living in Ontario is pretty sweet, eh? But what if your apartment is less "charmingly rustic" and more "questionable legality"? Fear not, intrepid renter! This guide will shed light on the dark corners (hopefully there aren't many of those in your place) of what makes an Ontario apartment illegal.
Building Without Permission: The Original Sin of Apartments
Imagine this: your landlord built your apartment with about as much planning as a particularly enthusiastic toddler with Legos. This is a big red flag. All renovations that create a new dwelling unit need permits. So, if your apartment looks like it showed up overnight, it might be best to have a conversation with your landlord (and maybe a fire marshall).
Safety First (Unless Your Landlord Forgot the "First")
There's a reason fire drills exist in schools, folks. Building codes are there to keep you safe. This means proper fire exits, working smoke detectors, and avoiding electrical wiring held together with hope and duct tape. If your apartment makes you feel like you're living in an episode of "Survivor," get out of there! Your safety is paramount.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Zoning Laws: Not What You Thought They Were
Not every area is created equal (especially when it comes to apartments). Zoning laws dictate where certain types of dwellings can be built. So, if you're living in a converted shed in a neighbourhood zoned for single-family homes, that's a problem.
The Flip Side: The Perils of Basement Apartments
Basement apartments can be a great way to score a decent-priced place. But there are rules! These often include things like proper ceiling height, a separate entrance (no creepy basement window access!), and a second fire escape. If your basement apartment feels more like a dungeon than a dwelling, it might be illegal.
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
How to Avoid the Illegal Apartment Abyss
Here's the good news: there are ways to avoid this whole "illegal apartment" mess!
- Ask for a copy of the fire inspection report. This is a good sign that the apartment is up to snuff.
- Do a quick internet search. See if your building has a history of bylaw infractions.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Bonus Tip: If you do find yourself in an illegal apartment, know your rights as a tenant! The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) has your back.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
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| What Makes An Apartment Illegal In Ontario |
FAQs
How to Know if My Basement Apartment is Legal?
Check for a separate entrance, proper ceiling height, and a second fire escape.
How to Report an Illegal Apartment?
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
Contact your local municipality.
How to Get Out of an Illegal Lease?
The RTA can help! Contact your local Landlord and Tenant Board.
How to Find a Legal Apartment?
Ask for a copy of the fire inspection report and do a quick online search of the building.
How to Live a Happy, Legal Apartment Life?
Rent from a reputable landlord, be aware of your rights, and enjoy your safe, legal home!
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