Can I Make Alterations to My Rental Property in Toronto?

Tenants cannot make alterations to a rental property without the landlord’s written consent. Most leases prohibit painting, upgrades, or modifications without approval.

What the Lease Usually Says

• Most rental agreements explicitly state that no alterations are allowed without prior approval.
• This includes cosmetic updates like painting or installing fixtures, as well as structural changes.

How to Properly Request Changes

1. Review your lease: Check for terms regarding modifications.
2. Submit a written request: Outline what you’d like to do and why.
3. Provide details and visuals: Materials, colours, or examples help the landlord visualize.
4. Obtain written consent: Ensure approval is documented, including any conditions (like restoring the unit later).
5. Respect the decision: If the landlord declines, unauthorized changes can lead to penalties or even eviction.

Why It Matters

Written consent protects both you and the landlord. It avoids disputes, ensures expectations are clear, and maintains a positive tenant-landlord relationship.

The Fox Marin Team educates tenants on best practices for lease compliance and helps them navigate requests to landlords, ensuring changes are correctly handled, respectfully, and in writing.

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