Can I Ask My Landlord To Paint Or Do Upgrades Before I Move In?

Yes, you can request upgrades before moving in, but landlords are only obligated to complete them if the changes are written into your lease agreement.

What Landlords Must Do

Under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, landlords are responsible for:

• Maintenance & repairs: Keeping the unit in good repair and compliant with health and safety standards.
• Utilities: Supplying heat, water, and electricity unless otherwise agreed in the lease.
• Peaceful enjoyment: Allowing tenants to reasonably enjoy the property without interference.
• Non-harassment: Avoiding threats, coercion, or obstruction.

These obligations don’t include cosmetic upgrades such as painting, new flooring, or appliance replacements unless safety or habitability is affected.

How to Handle Cosmetic Requests

• Before signing, if you want upgrades (such as painting or new fixtures), negotiate them in advance and ensure they’re clearly written into the lease.
• After moving in, you can still request changes, but your landlord is not required to agree. Always get any agreement in writing.

Key Takeaway

Landlords must keep rental units safe and habitable, but aren’t automatically responsible for cosmetic improvements. If upgrades are essential to you, negotiate them before signing your lease.

The Fox Marin Team helps tenants understand their rights and guides them on how to negotiate lease terms, ensuring that expectations and agreements are clear before they move in.

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