TORONTO, June 29, 2026 – Ontario’s current tenancy rules make clear that tenants may generally install and use a window or portable air conditioner when the landlord does not provide air conditioning, provided the unit complies with safety, building and lease requirements. If electricity is included in the rent, the landlord may charge for the additional power cost in accordance with provincial rules, but cannot impose an arbitrary fee without justification. Residents living in apartments, basement units or older rental buildings without central air conditioning should notify their landlord in writing before installation and confirm that the equipment complies with property and municipal safety requirements.
Before installing an air conditioner, tenants should provide the landlord with written notice that includes the type of unit, the proposed installation method and the expected period of use. Written notice helps both parties confirm safety requirements and any arrangements related to additional electricity costs.
The equipment must be securely installed and must not damage the rental unit or create a danger to other residents or the public. Window air conditioners in particular must be properly supported to prevent the unit or its parts from falling from a height.
Tenants must still comply with any safety restrictions imposed by the building, condominium rules or local bylaws. Some rental units may not be suitable for certain models because of window design, electrical capacity or building requirements.
Although portable air conditioners do not need to be mounted outside a window, their exhaust hoses, electrical outlets and power cords must still be used properly. Tenants should also avoid extension or wiring arrangements that could overload electrical circuits.
If the tenant pays the unit’s electricity bill directly, the cost of operating an air conditioner will generally appear on the tenant’s own utility bill. If the lease states that the landlord pays for electricity, the landlord may address the additional power use in accordance with provincial rules.
Any additional charge should be based on a reasonable estimate of increased electricity use and should not be treated as an arbitrary fixed surcharge. Once the equipment is removed or no longer used, the tenant may ask the landlord to adjust or end the related charge.
If the lease already includes air conditioning supplied by the landlord, the landlord must maintain the equipment in accordance with the lease and applicable property standards. Tenants should not install another unit without discussion if it could interfere with the existing system.
Toronto has separate indoor temperature rules for rental buildings where air conditioning is provided by the landlord. During the designated summer period, landlords are generally required to keep indoor temperatures from exceeding the municipal standard. These requirements are separate from the rules governing air conditioners installed by tenants themselves.
If a landlord objects to an installation because of safety, building structure or legal requirements, the landlord should explain the specific reason to the tenant. If the parties cannot resolve the dispute, they may seek information from the Landlord and Tenant Board or an appropriate legal service provider.
Before purchasing an air conditioner, tenants should keep a copy of the lease, written notice and the landlord’s response, and confirm responsibility for installation and electricity costs. This can help prevent later disputes over property damage, additional charges or removal requests.（LJI by Yuanyuan）
