New Ontario Law Effective July 1, 2026: Tenants Have New Rights to Install Air Conditioners

With Ontario summers becoming increasingly hot, an important change to the Residential Tenancies Act came into effect on July 1, 2026, giving many tenants the right to install a window or portable air conditioner in their rental unit.

What Does the New Law Mean?

If your landlord does not provide air conditioning, you are generally allowed to install a window or portable air conditioner, provided you meet certain legal requirements.

Tenant Responsibilities

Before installing an air conditioner, tenants must:

✅ Notify the landlord in writing before installation.

✅ Provide information about the unit's energy efficiency and expected usage if the landlord pays for electricity.

✅ Ensure the air conditioner is installed safely and securely.

✅ Make sure the installation does not damage the rental unit or the residential complex.

✅ Comply with all applicable municipal by-laws and safety requirements.

Can a Landlord Refuse?

A landlord may prohibit the installation only in specific circumstances prescribed by law, not simply because they do not want tenants to have air conditioners.

Landlords are also permitted to conduct a reasonable inspection to ensure the installation is safe and complies with legal requirements.

Can the Rent Increase?

If the landlord is responsible for paying the electricity under the tenancy agreement, they may increase the rent only to recover the actual electricity cost of operating the air conditioner—or a reasonable estimate if the actual cost cannot be determined.

The landlord cannot charge more than the actual cost, and if the tenant removes the air conditioner or stops using it seasonally, the rent increase must also be removed for that period.

If the lease already states that tenants may install an air conditioner without additional charges, no rent increase is permitted.

Important Exception

These new rules do not apply to rental units located in mobile home parks or land lease communities.

Know Your Rights

Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, understanding your rights and obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act can help prevent unnecessary disputes.

If you have questions about this new law, a rent increase, or a disagreement regarding an air conditioner installation, our office can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.

Need legal assistance with a landlord and tenant matter? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.