I AM A TENANT 
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
Maintenance of your home is a shared responsibility between you and OCH. OCH looks after the on-going maintenance of its buildings due to normal wear and tear to the premises and upkeep for your safety and enjoyment. Maintaining your personal space is your responsibility. Please advise us of any needed repairs as soon as they happen to help keep your home in the best condition possible.
For all maintenance/repair requests, please call the OCH Call Centre Maintenance line at 613-731-1182. Check the Service Standards for more information about what service OCH provides and types of requests.
SERVICE STANDARDS
OCH has defined service response targets to provide a sense of timelines to anticipate services being performed to address maintenance and repair issues based on their urgency. We can’t always guarantee these standards, but we always try to meet them.
IMMEDIATE/EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE REQUESTS
If you call us with an urgent maintenance request we’ll try to respond within 24 hours. We will send someone to investigate as soon as possible for emergencies like:
- Failure of essential services Loss of heat or water, a broken elevator, or if your only toilet is blocked.
- Security or structural risks such as broken locks, doors that won’t close, flooding or a fire alarm.
URGENT MAINTENANCE REQUESTS
Problems like a leaky tap are considered a maintenance priority and we will try to deal with them quickly. Expect a response and repairs within 1 to 3 days.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE REQUESTS
Maintenance requests that are not emergency or urgent may have to wait longer for service. We try to fix all regular maintenance issues within 5 business days. Examples of regular maintenance requests are dripping taps, ripped screens, cracked windows, etc.
Since the start of 2022, OCH has responded to 99.48% of all regular maintenance requests within 5 business days.
PLANNED MAINTENANCE REQUESTS
On occasion a unit is scheduled for refurbishments or larger replacements, such as, replacing the kitchen floor or replacing a bathtub. This falls under planned maintenance. These requests may take up to 60 days to complete.
TENANT RESPONSIBILITY FOR MAINTENANCE/REPAIR COSTS
OCH charges tenants for costs that are the tenant’s responsibility including:
1. Repairs/maintenance due to willful or negligent damage by the tenant, members of the tenant household or guests, or failure to maintain tenancy conditions; either during tenancy or upon vacating the premises.
2. Costs associated with third party charges, e.g. non-sufficient funds (NSF). Damages caused by “normal wear and tear” (e.g. carpet wearing thin through traffic over time) will not be charged to the tenant as they constitute regular maintenance and will be covered by OCH.
SNOW REMOVAL
OCH removes the snow from main entrances and primary walkways.
Main driving portion of parking lots, and when 2 or more consecutive parking spaces are empty at the time of the clearing.
Tenants are responsible for snow removal from their front/back doors to the common walkways for the carport/garage if they have one
for their rented parking space.
For all inquiries, contact the OCH Call Centre and select Maintenance at 613-731-1182.
MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR HOME
PAINT VOUCHERS
Your Property Manager must approve any changes to the property or your home before they are done.
PAINT COUPON (VOUCHERS)
- Tenants have access to paint coupons every four years.
- The coupons cover the cost of paint up to a certain amount. (you need the coupon prior to purchasing the paint)
- Please contact the OCH 24/7 Call Centre: 613-731-1182.
REMINDERS
- This voucher does not include paint brushes, rollers, or other supplies.
- This voucher expires 60 days from the date of issuance.
- This voucher only applies to light colours of paint, which are the three lightest samples on a paint swatch.
- Dark colours are not permitted. Walls will have to be repainted at the tenants’ expense.
- As per fire safety legislation, fire safety devices within your home and building common areas CANNOT be painted or disconnected for any reason.
PAINTING TIP
A room looks wonderful with a fresh coat of paint. Here are some great tips.
- Start right: Organize a tool station in the middle of the area you will be working in. Lay down a drop cloth sufficient to handle the items you will need. Gather together your paint, brushes, rollers, hammer, screwdrivers, rags, paint can opener and place them on the drop cloth.
- Use the day before painting day to move your furniture into the center of the room, tape around doors and windows, cover wall and ceiling fixtures. Cover furniture with drop cloths.
- Simple clean-up for latex paint: When you’re done painting, take time to soak your latex paintbrushes and rollers in a solution of water and laundry fabric softener for about ten minutes. Gently swish them around in the water, remove them and rinse with clear water. Wipe or roll off excess moisture; then air dry the brushes and rollers before putting them away.
ACCESSIBLE ACCOMMODATION
Ottawa Community Housing accommodates tenants with physical disabilities through upgrades to their home (e.g., installing grab bars, smoke detector with strobe light alarm, etc.) OCH may need information from your doctor or Occupational Therapist before making changes. In some cases, moving to a more suitable home can also be an option.
To learn more about how to get this help, talk to your Property Manager or Tenant Support Worker. They can assist you in completing the necessary paperwork to request accessibility accommodation.
AIR CONDITIONERS
You must request permission before installing an air conditioner in your home.
Contact your Property Manager requesting permission to install your air conditioner.
You will receive a guide on how to properly install the air conditioner for your home. Shortly after, we will visit your home to verify that the installation is done correctly and safely and will not damage the home or property.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards- Air Conditioners (A/C) for more information.
BASEMENT
OCH may approve minor modifications for your basement. You are responsible for any damage to people or property caused by the modification, its installation or removal.
These are the conditions that must be met and maintained if OCH approves the basement modification in your home.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards – Basement for more information.
BACKYARD AND GENERAL AREA
Some OCH homes include more than just the interior rental space. They may include front and/or back yards, walkways, lanes, driveways/carports, porches, balconies, and lockers.
All these general property areas are part of the leased premises. You are responsible for any damage to people or property caused by the modification, its installation
or removal.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards – General Property Areas and the Backyard which explain the basic conditions that must be met and maintained for the general property areas or your backyard.
BALCONIES
Balconies rented with a home are considered part of the leased premises. The OCH Standards for Balcony of homes are based on your Lease Agreement, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and City of Ottawa Bylaws including Property Standards Bylaws.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards – Balconies which explain the basic conditions that must be met and maintained for your balconies.
SHEDS AND STORAGE UNITS
OCH may approve minor modifications regarding the installation of sheds and storage units. You are responsible for any damage to people or property caused by the modification, its installation or removal.
These are the conditions that must be met and maintained if OCH approves the installation of a shed or storage unit.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards – Sheds and Storage Units for more information.
SATELLITE DISHES, ANTENNAS OR RECEIVERS
OCH must approve minor modifications for the installation of a satellite dish or antenna. You are responsible for any damage to people or property caused by the modification, its installation or removal.
These are the conditions that must be met and maintained if OCH approves the installation of a satellite dish, antenna or receiver.
You can also refer to the OCH Unit Modification Standards – Satellite Dishes, Antennas or Receivers for more information.
MOVING
MOVING IN/OUT
LOADING/UNLOADING
You are allowed to move between 8 am and 10 pm. During loading and unloading of your belongings, vehicles should be parked in the laneways and/or parking areas only. Remember to dispose of your garbage in the appropriate area and containers.
RESERVING ELEVATORS
To reserve an elevator, call the OCH Call Centre at 613-731-1182 on the day of your move, and we will send someone to place the elevator on service within 15 minutes. We can only accept your request if at least two elevators are working. Otherwise, different arrangements will need to be made ahead the move.
MOVE-IN INSPECTION
You will receive a move-in inspection form to be completed upon move-in. This is where you can provide OCH with a list of repairs that may have been overlooked when we were preparing the home for your arrival.
ENDING A TENANCY
When you want to move out of your OCH home, you must give at least 60-day written notice to end the tenancy. The 60 days must end on the last day of a calendar month. You will need to deliver all keys and fobs to your nearest OCH office by that last day of your tenancy and leave us with a forwarding address.
At the end of your tenancy, OCH expects you to:
- leave the home clean
- restore it to its original condition
- remove all personal possessions and garbage
If you don’t, you will have to pay the costs of removing any garbage, repairing any damage and storing any personal possessions you leave behind.
SUBLETTING, RE-ASSIGNING YOUR HOME & SHORT-TERM STAYS
Subletting your home is when you move out and let someone else live in your home for a limited period.
Only those on the lease can stay in your home.
You cannot sublet or assign your home or any part of it to another person.
The City of Ottawa has bylaws that address short-term rentals. It is prohibited to provide short-term rentals in community housing. It is strictly forbidden, even if your guests are well-behaved.
If you rent out your home, you run the risk of being evicted and losing your subsidy.
RESPONSIBILITIES
TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES
As a tenant, you and anyone living with you must comply with the responsibilities of your lease.
This includes the following responsibilities:
- Giving proper written notice to Ottawa Community Housing when you move out unless the Landlord & Tenant Board ends the tenancy for breaking rules of the Residential Tenancies Act.
- Allowing entry into your home when the reasons for entry comply with the Residential Tenancies Act or your lease.
- Paying your rent on time.
- Keeping your home clean and in good condition.
- Calling OCH 24/7 Call Centre to tell us about any repairs which may be needed in your home.
- Being responsible for your actions and actions of the other members of your household, your visitors, your guests, their pets and your pets.
- Respecting your neighbours by not making too much noise.
- Keeping common areas clean by using the garbage bins provided.
- Ensuring that the utilities (such as gas and hydro) are paid on time.
- Getting household insurance for your belongings – usually called contents or renters’ insurance.
- Reporting change in your income or household within 30 days of the change.
- Not subletting or assigning your home.
- Getting written permission from OCH before making any changes or alterations to your home or property.
OCH RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As your Landlord, Ottawa Community Housing must:
- Follow the obligations as Landlord under the Residential Tenancies Act and Housing Services Act.
- Provide services as set out in your lease.
- Keep your rental property well maintained and respond to repair requests.
- Provide 24 hours’ notice before entering your home unless you give permission to enter or there is an emergency (flood fire, life-threatening event) in which case, staff can enter your home.
- Provide proof of payment when requested.
- Process your annual rent review, if you pay rent-geared-to-income.
- Will respect the confidentiality of your personal information.
PETS
Tenants have the right to have and enjoy pets as long as they are following the City of Ottawa By-laws.
All cats and dogs must be registered with the City of Ottawa. For more information or to report a by-law violation committed by a pet owner on LCO property, call the City at 3-1-1.
All tenants also have the right to a clean and safe environment. Owners must ensure that their animals do not disturb the peace and quiet of neighboring apartments or houses. Pets must not be allowed to run loose in OCH corridors or communities. Pets should be kept indoors or supervised when outdoors.
STOOP-AND-SCOOP
Pet owners must pick up all pet droppings from OCH property. Use a shovel or a bag to pick up the waste and take it home for disposal. You can get rid of waste by emptying it from the bag and flushing it down the toilet, or by wrapping it in absorbent paper, sealing it in a garbage bag and putting it in the regular garbage.
You can contact your local OCH office during office hours to lodge a complaint or call OCH Community Safety Services at 613-731-1182 for assistance.
REVIEWS
ANNUAL REVIEW
If you are receiving a rent subsidy, your rent is based on your income. In order to keep your subsidy, every year you must provide updated information about your household and your income.
Every year, you will receive a ‘Household Review Form’ to complete and return to your nearest OCH office with proof of income for everyone in your household that has income. When OCH receives your updated information, your rent will be recalculated for the coming year.
If you do not provide the requested proof of income, your household may no longer qualify for a subsidy and you will have to pay the market rent for your home.
REQUESTING AN INTERNAL REVIEW
If you feel that you have a good reason to question a decision about changes in your rent, reduction or loss of your subsidy, denial for transfer, etc., contact your Tenant and Community Worker. He or she will guide you through the process of completing an Internal Review Hearing Form and requesting a meeting to review your
circumstances.
SAFETY & SECURITY
FIRE PREVENTION
Your home has at least one smoke detector and may also have a carbon monoxide detector. Please do not disconnect them – it is against the law. Check regularly (for example, at the beginning of every month) to see that the batteries are working by pressing the button. If any of your detectors do not work, call OCH Call Centre immediately at 613-731-1182.
DID YOU KNOW?
- OCH conducts annual inspections of your home where all smoke and carbon
monoxide detectors are checked. - OCH replaces smoke alarms every 9 years and carbon monoxide detectors every 6 years.
- Since 2006, Ottawa Fire Services has responded to an average of 21 major OCH home fires every year; the average annual cost is $1.3 million.
- It is against the law to disable a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm.
- It is against the law to fail to notify the landlord if the smoke/carbon monoxide alarm is disconnected, impaired, or not working. You can also be fined $295.
- When OCH does annual inspections, they must have access to your home. Do not change your locks without informing OCH.
- Automatic door closers stop the spread of fire and smoke.
- The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
- You could be charged for all damages caused to your home or any other part of OCH property.
PREVENT A FIRE BEFORE IT STARTS!
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month by pressing the TESTbutton
- When you hear your smoke alarm, get out, stay out, and call 911
- When you hear your carbon monoxide alarm, get out, stay out, and call 911
- If you have a furnace or hot water tank, make sure there is nothing within 12 inches (30 cm) of the exhaust vent on your outside wall
- Keep an area of about 3 feet (1 meter) clear and clean all around the
furnace/hot water tank and electrical panel - Avoid careless smoking. Use ashtrays and never smoke in bed
- If you use candles, be sure to use proper candleholders. Never leave lit candles unattended
- Have a fire escape plan: Draw a floor plan of your home showing all possible exits from each room. If possible, plan the main exit route and an alternative exit route from each room. Practice your fire escape plan with everyone in your home twice a year.
COOK WITH CAUTION
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, turn off the stove.
- Do not store flammable liquids in your home or attached garage
- Never store or use propane cylinders in your home, balcony, or attached garage
- Store your propane cylinder outdoors in a well-ventilated area when not in use
- If you have a fire in your microwave or stove, turn it off immediately and keep the door closed
- If you have a cooking fire, keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
- Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food
packaging, towels or curtains – away from your stovetop
ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY
- A cord or plug that becomes hot to the touch is an indication of a
dangerously overloaded circuit - Check cords for damage such as fraying or nicks that may result in a potential shock or fire hazard
- Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture, which can damage the cord and cause a fire
- Check that all electrical appliances have recognized approval marks to make sure they meet the electrical safety requirements for Ontario.
DEVELOP A FIRE ESCAPE PLAN
- Draw a floor plan of your home showing all possible exits from each room.
- Where possible, plan the main exit route and an alternate exit route from each room.
- Establish a safe meeting place outside your home where everyone can meet.
- Make certain everyone understands if they hear the smoke alarm or someone shouting, “fire” they should immediately evacuate the home.
- Discuss your escape plan and practise fire drills with your family. This is the best way to prevent panic, especially among children. Be sure every family member knows what to do.
- Stay Safe!
FIRE ASSISTANCE LIST
Do you live in an apartment building? Would you need some help to leave your home in case of a fire? Please contact your OCH Office to make sure you are on the OCH Fire Assistance List. This list helps the firefighters find those who need their help.
TENANT INSURANCE POLICY IS MANDATORY
Tenant insurance protects you in case of fire or other unexpected events. It covers the replacement of your belongings and can even cover the cost of temporary housing if your home becomes unlivable. Tenant insurance is an affordable way to protect yourself and your belongings. It can give you peace of mind in case of an emergency. If you have signed a new Lease Agreement after March 2014, you must maintain a Tenant Insurance Policy.
Ask your OCH Office for Tenant Insurance information, or click here.
SEASONAL TIPS
SUMMER
- OCH cuts the grass of the common grounds, but tenants are responsible for maintaining their own yards.
- You must get written permission from your Property Manager before you install an A/C unit.
- Please do not BBQ or store a propane tank on your balcony or in your home.
WINTER
- Be cautious on streets and sidewalks and look out for black ice.
- Always use the hand railings and plant your feet firmly when walking up/down steps.
- Keep windows and balcony doors closed during the winter to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles-use the vehicle for
support. - Remove as much snow and water from your boots as you can when you get inside. Floors and stairs may be slippery
- Turn down the heat when you leave home, but never turn it off completely over the winter
- Turn off the water to the outside tap
- Keep walkways clear of ice and snow
- Change your furnace filter
- Clear away anything blocking the heating vents
YOUR HOME
OUTSIDE YOUR HOME
BALCONIES
Please follow these rules so that all tenants can enjoy their balconies:
- Make sure that items at risk of flying away are secured.
- Place all unwanted items directly in the garbage.
- Do not throw cigarette butts or any other items off your balcony.
- Keep your balcony free and clear of debris and clutter.
- When cleaning your balcony, use a damp mop rather than dumping water off the balcony.
- Do not barbecue or store a propane tank/BBQ on your balcony (or in your home).
- Be conscious of noise levels because sound carries.
YARD
Community pride is a shared responsibility. OCH cuts the grass in the common areas of its communities. Tenants are responsible for the maintenance of your private yards. If you want to make alterations to your yard, contact your Property Manager before doing any work.
During the winter, take extra care to keep your walkways clear of ice and snow. If you have an outside tap, do not forget to remove the hose and turn off the water inside and out before the cold weather arrives.
PLUMBING
WHAT NOT TO FLUSH DOWN THE TOILET
Your toilet is not a green bin or a garbage can. Flushing certain items can result in a back-up of the sewer line into your home or can create problems at the City’s wastewater treatment plant.
Only flush the three Ps – pee, poo and toilet paper! These are the only items that belong in your toilet.
The following items should never be flushed down the toilet:
- Personal care wipes/baby wipes
- Diapers
- Cotton swabs
- Hair
- Dental floss
- Tampons
- Sanitary products
- Condoms
- Old medicines
- Grease/fat from food
How can I dispose of these items?
Visit the Waste Explorer to find out how to dispose of these items.
Why shouldn’t “flushable” wipes be flushed down the toilet?
While products may be advertised as “flushable,” in reality items such as baby wipes, makeup remover cloths, and disinfectant wipes do not decompose in the sanitary sewer system. Flushing this material causes damage to the sewer system and may cause sewer backups in your home. Flushable should be disposed of in the garbage.
Source: City of Ottawa
ASBESTOS CONTROL PROGRAM
WHAT IS ASBESTOS?
Asbestos is the name for a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are durable and heat resistant. We have lived with it for thousands of years because it can be found naturally
in the outdoor environment.
It was used in most schools, hospitals, government buildings, homes, and apartments built before 1985.
Nowadays, the use and management of asbestos are legislated to protect us from over-exposure.
DID YOU KNOW
- Ottawa Community Housing has an Asbestos Control Program to deal with the ongoing handling of materials suspected to contain asbestos
- OCH follows legislated regulations that protect both workers and tenants
- Trained workers do all asbestos-related work
- Asbestos is not dangerous when in good condition and if it is left undisturbed
- It is not necessary to remove material suspected to contain asbestos if it is in good condition
- You cannot see asbestos in material containing the fibre. Samples are taken and sent to a laboratory to confirm if it is present.
WHAT IF ASBESTOS IS FOUND IN MY BUILDING?
If building materials within your building have been sampled and confirmed to contain asbestos prior to you moving in, OCH will notify you at the lease signing.
If found during repairs and other maintenance activities, OCH will send you a notice to confirm the presence of asbestos in your home.
OCH manages and controls the risks associated with the asbestos present in its buildings through its Asbestos Management Plan. The plan provides details of the location and condition of the asbestos if it is found in your building.
WHAT IF ASBESTOS IS FOUND IN MY HOME?
Follow these simple instructions, if you have been advised that your building contains or may contain asbestos:
YOU CAN…
- hang picture frames with hand tools using nails or screws
- paint the walls if desired
Call the 24h/7 days OCH Call Centre at 613-731-1182 (option 2) if the material suspected to contain asbestos is damaged in your home.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
- Asbestos is not hazardous if it is not damaged
- DO NOT disturb or damage material containing asbestos
- DO NOT saw, sand, scrape or drill holes in materials containing asbestos such as in walls and ceilings
- DO NOT remove or cut vinyl flooring
- DO NOT apply adhesive-backed floor tiles to the existing floor
- DO NOT open any access panels or hatches in the walls or ceilings of your home
- DO NOT perform repairs to materials containing asbestos.
- DO NOT dust, sweep or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos – notify the OCH Call Centre immediately.
ONLINE RESOURCES
YOUR RENT
HOW TO PAY RENT
Your rent matters. Rent is needed for OCH to pay mortgages, taxes, maintenance and other costs of maintaining your home.
RENT DUE DATE
Your rent is due on or before the 1st day of every month. Any payment received by OCH after the first day of the month is late. Late payments mean you have a record of rent arrears.
There are four ways to pay rent:
1. Pre-authorized Payment (PAP)
Your rent is taken from your bank account automatically on the 1st day of each month.
Changes to the amount of your rent are made automatically.
2. Cheque or Money Order
Cheques and Money Orders are payable at your Tenant Service Centre or at the OCH Head Office on 39 Auriga Drive. If you pay by mail, please include on your cheque or money order your:
- name
- tenant ID #
- address
- Phone #
3. Interac
Available at your nearest OCH office (excluding the Auriga office).
4. Electronic Payment
Electronic payments can be done by phone, ATM (bank machine) or the internet. You can ask the bank to set it up for you.
If you already pay bills through electronic banking, you can set up the rent payment just like your other bills.
Your account # is your 6-digit tenant ID #.
Cash is not accepted at any OCH office.
HAVING DIFFICULTY PAYING RENT ?
You are strongly encouraged to contact your OCH Rent Collection Coordinator (list of numbers below) immediately if you fall behind in rent payments. Our goal is to preserve tenancies where possible.
OCH will work with you to find a solution to the debt. OCH works with tenants in financial difficulties by:
- making payment arrangements where appropriate
- providing information about community resources which may be able to provide tenants with advice
Call OCH Call Centre at 613-731-1182.
OCH will use a collection agency to collect what is owed and will evict tenants who fall into arrears or who are continually late in paying rent. If you are in arrears you may also have to pay one or more charges to OCH for:
- NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds)
- Tribunal/Board fees
- Enforcement fees
You may not be eligible for a transfer within OCH if there are outstanding rent arrears, or if rent was paid late during the past 6 months. If you leave OCH with money owing, you will not be able to get other social housing in Ontario and you will not be able to get credit because you will have a bad credit record.
ADDING/REMOVING HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS
Your rent is geared to total household income. This means your rent will be adjusted if another income earner moves in. The adjustment will take effect 30 days from the date your household income increases. A new household member must be eligible for Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) for the entire household to continue to be eligible for RGI.
You cannot assign or sublet your unit to a new household member who has moved in with you. If you move out, the new person may also have to move out.
You will be responsible for any debt to OCH that a new household member causes, including the higher rent. You will also be responsible for the new household member’s actions. You will not be able to have OCH remove the new household member from your home.
PROPERTIES TAX EXEMPTION
INCOME TAX RETURN AND ONTARIO TRILLIUM BENEFIT
- Ottawa Community Housing is exempt from municipal property taxes
- Tenants should consult the Canada Revenue Agency website for tax-related information
- The Ontario Trillium Benefit is a provincial policy that is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. For questions related to this benefit, please contact the Province of Ontario.
The Housing Services Act has been updated – read more to find out how this affects tenants.
See Updates
