Renting 101: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

Disagreements between tenants and landlords are common, especially when it comes to repairs, property damage, and unexpected costs. Many renters assume their landlord is responsible for all issues in the unit, while landlords expect tenants to handle certain upkeep and damages. Without a clear understanding of tenant and landlord responsibilities, small disputes can escalate into expensive, time-consuming conflicts. 

While the specific rights and responsibilities of renters and landlords are primarily determined by provincial laws and regulations, they can also be influenced by the terms of the rental or lease agreement. Understanding these factors is key to knowing who is responsible for what. Not only does this help avoid misunderstandings, but being aware of responsibilities also ensures both parties use their renter's insurance or landlord insurance effectively when something goes wrong. This article will break down common rental scenarios, explain when tenant insurance vs. landlord insurance applies, and provide insight into how renters and landlords can navigate rental dispute resolution smoothly. 

Understanding basic tenant and landlord responsibilities 

Before diving into common rental disputes, it’s important to understand the basic responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. For landlords, this helps them protect their property and set clear expectations, while for tenants, it provides guidance on maintenance, their rights, and how to request repairs if a landlord isn’t addressing issues.  

Landlords are legally required to maintain a safe and livable property. This includes: 

• Structural maintenance: Making sure the foundation, walls, roof, and exterior remain in good condition. 

• Plumbing and electrical systems: Keeping water and electricity in working order. 

• Heating and essential appliances: Repairing or replacing broken heating systems and major appliances (if provided). 

• Safety and compliance: Meeting building codes, fire regulations, and addressing hazardous conditions. 

Tenants have a duty to keep the unit clean and report issues before they become major problems. Their responsibilities include: 

• Cleanliness: Maintaining a clean and sanitary living space to a standard that most people would consider normal cleanliness.  

• Preventable damage: Repairing or covering the cost of damage they or their guests cause. 

• Liability for guests: If a guest gets injured inside the rental unit, the tenant may be responsible. This is where renter's insurance can help cover liability claims. 

• Notifying the landlord: Reporting leaks, mold, or damage promptly to prevent bigger issues. 

Knowing these responsibilities helps both parties avoid disputes, protect their property, and know when to rely on tenant insurance or landlord insurance for coverage. 

Common rental scenarios and who’s responsible

Disagreements between renters and landlords often come down to who is responsible for repairs and damages. While general tenant and landlord responsibilities apply across Canada, specific laws vary by province. If you’re unsure about your rights, check your province’s residential tenancy laws. 

Below, we’ll break down three common rental scenarios and when renter's insurance or landlord insurance comes into play. 

Appliance breakdowns  

Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens can break down unexpectedly, but who pays for repairs? It depends on who owns the appliance and the cause of the issue. 

• Landlord: If the appliance was included in the lease, the landlord is responsible for repairs due to normal wear and tear. 

• Tenant: If the tenant purchased the appliance or caused the damage (e.g., improper use), they are responsible for repairs or replacement. 

Insurance can help cover certain damages, but it depends on who owns the appliance and how the damage occurred. 

• Landlord insurance: May cover built-in or provided appliances if damaged by a covered event (e.g., a burst pipe), but general wear and tear isn’t covered. 

• Tenant Insurance: Doesn’t cover landlord-provided appliances but may cover personal appliances if damaged by an insured event like fire or water damage. 

Water damage 

Water damage can happen for many reasons, including leaking pipes, flooding, poor drainage, or roof leaks. Whether a tenant or landlord is responsible depends on the cause of the issue. 

• Landlord: Responsible if water damage is due to structural issues, like a leaking roof, old plumbing, or foundation problems.
• Tenant: Responsible if damage is caused by negligence, like leaving a tap running or overflowing a bathtub. 

Insurance may step in to cover repairs, but coverage varies depending on what caused the damage. 

• Landlord insurance: Covers structural damage (e.g., floors, walls, ceilings) but does not cover the tenant’s belongings. 

• Tenant Insurance: Protects personal items like furniture, clothing, and electronics if damaged by a covered water event. However, flood damage is usually not covered unless extra coverage has been added. 

Pest infestation 

Pests like cockroaches, bed bugs, ants, and termites can be a nightmare in any rental unit. In the event that pests are found in the unit, the responsibility of covering costs also depends on certain factors. 

• Landlord: Responsible if the infestation was present before the tenant moved in or is caused by structural issues (e.g., gaps in walls, poor sealing). 

• Tenant: Responsible if pests result from unclean living conditions, such as leaving food out or failing to dispose of garbage properly. 

While insurance typically doesn’t cover pest control, some policies may provide protection for structural damage or personal belongings affected by an infestation. 

• Landlord insurance: May cover structural damage from termites or other pests, but routine pest control costs are usually excluded. 

• Tenant Insurance: Pest infestations are typically not covered, but some policies may protect personal belongings if damaged by pests. 

Clear expectations and open communication are key to avoiding rental disputes. Knowing who is responsible for what can help prevent frustration and unexpected costs for both renters and landlords.  

How to avoid rental disputes and protect yourself

Disagreements between renters and landlords often come down to miscommunication and unclear expectations. Here are some ways to avoid rental disputes and protect both parties: 

• Have a clear lease agreement: A detailed lease should outline tenant and landlord responsibilities, including who handles repairs, maintenance, and insurance requirements. 

• Schedule regular inspections: Landlords should conduct routine property checks, while tenants should report issues early to prevent bigger problems. 

• Document everything: Take photos of the unit before moving in and after moving out. If damage occurs, keep records for rental dispute resolution and potential insurance claims. 

• Use security deposits fairly: Landlords should only deduct for actual damages, while tenants should document the unit’s condition to avoid unfair charges. 

• Maintain open communication: Addressing concerns early can prevent rental disputes from escalating. Both parties should keep records of conversations for reference. 

• Understand insurance coverage: Tenants should know what renter's insurance covers, while landlords should verify that their landlord insurance protects against structural damage. 

Taking these steps helps prevent misunderstandings, keeps relationships professional, and protects both landlords and renters in the long run. 

Let’s get you covered. 

Knowing who’s responsible for what in a rental can save both tenants and landlords from unnecessary stress and surprise expenses. Whether you’re a renter or a property owner, having the right renter's insurance or landlord insurance in Canada can provide essential protection if things ever go wrong. 

Need expert guidance or looking for a new policy? Connect with a Surex advisor by starting a quote today.